A Rose for the Resistance (Heroines of WWII) by Angela K. Couch

 

A Rose for the Resistance by Angela K. Couch
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As I read this book, I could not help but think of the current situation going on in our world. My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Ukraine!!

Rosalie and Marcel live in Ste Mere Eglise, France during the time of the occupation of the Nazi forces. This book starts off with a pretty intense fighting scene and one in which a Bible is recovered and Rosalie is allowed to escape. Little does she know that the one who handed her the Bible would come back into her life and play a pivotal role in how the war would end!!

Rosalie is super protective of her brother, Marcel, as well as her Maman. Marcel is anxious to go off with the troops and fight but Rosalie does her best to protect him. She finally decides to assist the Resistance herself. Life really starts to change when a British pilot is brought to her home. Can she keep them all safe?

I really enjoyed this page-turning book! I've always been fascinated by the stories of WWII and how it all came about and ultimately ended. I believe there is a lot that can be learned from the past stories. While I do realize that this is a work of fiction, there are historical truths within. I recommend this book to those who love a good action story with a side of romance and history!

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To Whisper Her Name (Belle Meade Plantation #1) by Tamera Alexander

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was so good that I was sad to see this story come to an end!! It's not often that I read and really savor a book because the storyline is one that I deeply enjoy. 

Ridley is looking for someplace to land after fighting in the war. He stumbles upon Belle Meade and recognizes a familiar face there. He spends some time with Uncle Bob and ultimately, ends up with a job. He doesn't plan to stay long, just long enough to make the money he needs to move out west. The lessons he learns from Uncle Bob are lifelong though and their friendship runs deep. 

Olivia is a newly widowed young lady who doesn't have anywhere to turn except to accept the offer from Aunt Elizabeth to come live with her at Belle Meade. If only the General was as accepting of her she might have been able to secure better employment prior to coming and prove her worth to the only people who will accept her after the shame her late husband brought upon her. 

This book is full of a very sweet romance, some not so nice romances, horses, a sprawling plantation, and lots of shenanigans. I fell in love with Olivia's character but my favorite character in this story is Rachel. I think behind the scenes she might have had a lot to do with how the characters interacted and the story played out. Uncle Bob is another big favorite of mine. I just never knew what he might do in his training with Ridley.

I look forward to reading the next book in this series!! 

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Beloved Hope by Tracie Peterson

Beloved Hope by Tracie Peterson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In this second book in the Heart of the Frontier series, we learn that Hope has survived the Whitman massacre. However, just because she survived doesn't mean that she doesn't carry very deep scars of the event. Hope is not sure she will ever trust anyone again, especially a man. After what she's endured, Hope doesn't seem to have a lot of hope for her future. She's living with her sister, Grace and her husband, Alex, as well as her younger sister, Mercy. Hope spends her day tending to their flock of lambs.

It's time for the trial of the Cayuse who caused the trauma that happened at the Whitman plantation. Hope is expected to testify against those who wronged her and many other women in the community but she's not sure she can do it.

There's a new guy in town named Lance who's working at the jail that's holding the Cayuse until they go to trial. Lance is about to get out of the military and he's contemplating returning home to New Orleans to start his law practice and continue to run his family's plantation. After a chance meeting with Hope, Lance isn't sure he wants to go back home. There's a lot of factors that go into this though, including his secret past that he's not sure he could share with someone.

In this novel, Tracie Peterson picks up where she left off in the first book of the series, Treasured Grace. I have not yet read this book but it's my next read as this one was so captivating. I had to download it immediately!! I have also learned that Cherished Mercy, the third book in this series, is set to release in Sept. 2017!! How exciting to read more about this family!

I really fell in love with this book pretty quickly. The story captivated my attention, even though there were a few moments that I was unclear on having not read the first book. For the most part, this is an easy read in terms of picking up pieces though. It is a bit of a heavy read learning of Hope's situation and all she endured while being captured by the Cayuse. For that reason, I would not recommend this book to tender aged readers. There are several "adult" issues faced in this book that might be difficult for a younger crowd.

I loved the story of Lance as well. The way that he handled the past issues he faced was done with much grace. I am not sure I could have been as forgiving as he was (or Hope either for that matter). The overarching theme of this book is forgiveness as well as hope. I felt I could identify with both Lance and Hope on some level and I appreciated the ways in which they handled their issues. My only real issue with this story is that the path to salvation was shortened by a few steps. I do believe that one must Hear the Word (Romans 10:17), Believe on the Word (Matthew 16:16, John 8:24, Acts 16:30-31), Repent of those sins (Luke 24:47, 2 Cor. 7:10, Acts 2:37-38), Confess their sins publicly (Matt. 16:16, Matt. 10:32-33; Romans 10:8-10; Acts 8:35-38), and be Baptized (immersed) (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; Col. 2:12; Acts 22:16) for the forgiveness of sins. Then and only then do I believe, as the Bible points out, that one is saved (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). In this story, Lance was strongly encouraged to hear the Word, believe on the Word, and ask for forgiveness. He was not encouraged to follow through with baptism for the remission of his sins.

Many thanks to Bethany House publishers, as well as Tracie Peterson, for allowing me to read a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The thoughts written here are my own and I was allowed to read this novel in exchange for my personal thoughts.

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Heart on the Line by Karen Witemeyer

Heart on the Line by Karen Witemeyer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Grace Mallory hasn't had the easiest life. After witnessing the murder of her father and receiving his message to get away quickly, Grace finds herself in Harper's Station. She's at least found peace and comfort in her little community, made up mostly of women. She enjoys her job as the telegraph operator and finds her evenings to be entertaining by a mystery man corresponding with her on the other end of the line.

Amos Bledsoe is a simple man, one who enjoys his job as a telegraph operator. He prefers his bicycle over a horse any day and can't wait until his mom and sister leave him alone about finding the perfect woman. When he hears a distress call come over the line, he can't help but run to the aid of his "Miss G".

This was a super intense read that only took me a few hours to complete. I read this during my "anniversary weekend" and loved a few of the comparisons between the characters and my husband and I. We, like Amos and Grace, met "online". Our online meeting was more modern than what Grace and Amos experienced, but fun nonetheless. There is also a bit of an age gap between us all. Not that I mind, and I don't think Grace did either. We also all have a deep love for the Lord, which is above all importance.

I very much enjoyed the story of Amos and Grace and look forward to hearing more about their future. The secondary story line of Helen and Lee is also exciting and I can't wait to see how their relationship grows! I'm very much looking forward to the next book in this series! January 2, 2018 will be the release date of Hearts Entwined!

Thank you to Bethany House Publishing and Karen Witemeyer for providing a complimentary copy of this book to review on NetGalley. The thoughts you have read are my own opinions on this book.

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Love Story by Karen Kingsbury

Love Story by Karen Kingsbury
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What's your love story? Is it worthy of writing a paper about it?

In Karen Kingsbury's newest release, the reader is reconnected to the Baxter Family. Or, maybe like in my case, the reader is meeting them for the first time. The Baxter's are a fairly decent sized family with many facets. John and Elizabeth Baxter are the cornerstone of their family. When their grandson, Cole, asks John to share his love story with his former (now deceased) wife, Elizabeth, John finds himself reliving the life he shared with Elizabeth. Their love story is unique, yet shares patterns that many find in their lives today.

Cody Coleman, long time family friend of the Baxters, is in utter romantic chaos. He's sick without the love of his life, Andi Ellison. However, how do you repair a relationship after two failed engagements? Can Cody come to grips with his feelings and explain to Andi why he's acted the way he has? Will Andi be accepting and welcome Cody back into her life for a third time?

There are a lot of tender moments shared in this love story of the Baxter family. I read this book in about 4 hours straight and found that I could not put it down until it was completed. I look forward to reading more about the Baxter family (there are multiple books in different series about them) in the near future.

Many thank to the author and publisher for providing me with a review copy of this book on NetGalley. These are my personal thoughts on the book.

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A Love So True by Melissa Jagears

A Love So True by Melissa Jagears
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It's 1908 and the setting is in Southeast Kansas. David Kingsman just wants to make his father proud. It's all he's ever wanted in life...to have his father say, "Well done, son!" at the end of a business deal. The glass factory is in need of something major...in the forms of a shut down and sale to the highest bidder. David struggles with this as he is in Teaville to assess the business in his father's portfolio. Is shutting down really the best answer?

Evelyn Wisely is a young, single woman with a servant's heart. She braves the red-light district of Teaville to rescue any woman who expresses an interest in leaving a soiled past for a much cleaner one. Evelyn also has a huge heart for the children in the orphanage that her family manages. Evelyn has no regard for herself or her future...and marriage is definitely not an option.

David is quite smitten when he first lays eyes on Evelyn but is very intrigued by her work in the red-light district of town. Whatever is a lady of her station doing in such desolate and dark areas? David can't seem to get Evelyn out his mind despite the denials of his advances. Will he be able to wait this journey out to win her heart?

This is the second book in the Teaville series. I did not realize this, nor was I affected by that news. I would like to go back and read the first book now, knowing that this is a series. If I were to choose a favorite character in this book, hands down it would be David. I admire his persistence, his patience, and the way in which he turned his circumstances into something much more positive. Reflecting back, I didn't realize just how giving he was, as the book really focused on the amount of giving that Evelyn exuded. David is the strongest developed character in this book and I found myself falling under his charm a time or two.

There is a portion of the book where the characters become very open about their faith and how they are going to deal with the situation at hand. There are tender moments between couples at various stages of relationships in this book. However, I would feel comfortable with my teenager reading this book.

I did have a difficult time getting into this book but I feel it was more of a matter of somethings I was going through personally when I first started this book. It did not pick up for me as quickly as I would have liked but the ending did seem to come quickly. The longer I read this, the more I did enjoy the story. Many other reviewers have had a different experience (Loving it all the way through) so again, I feel it might have been where I was in life when I started reading this book.

Many thanks to Bethany House Publishers and Melissa Jagears for providing a complimentary copy for me to review through Netgalley.com. What you have read here are my honest thoughts on this book.

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No Other Will Do by Karen Witemeyer

No Other Will Do by Karen Witemeyer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It's been awhile since I've snuggled down with a Karen Witemeyer book and I have no idea why because she never disappoints!!

I loved this book and devoured it rather quickly!! Set in 1882, Emma Chandler is in charge of a women's colony in Harper's Station. She provides a safe haven for women who are in need of a fresh start. However, there is a sinister man who is doing everything he can to ruin Harper's Station and to demolish the safe haven that Emma has created. Feeling like she has no other option, Emma contacts her life-long friend, Malachi Shaw, to come and help get her colony back under control. How will the women react to having a man in their midst? How will Emma react to seeing Mal after all these years apart?

As I mentioned before, Karen Witemeyer does not disappoint!! I love her writing style and how she creates a mystery intertwined with romance!! Her characters are well developed and I feel as though I lived in Harper's Station while reading this book!

I appreciate Bethany House Publishers providing a complimentary copy of No Other Will Do in exchange for my honest review. This is one of my most favorite publishing companies and I'm honored to be able to review for them and read high quality books from authors I love!

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Her One and Only by Becky Wade

Her One and Only by Becky Wade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In book 4 of the Porter family series, Dru Porter has been assigned as an executive protective agent for Gray Fowler, a NFL superstar tight end. Dru feels the importance of this task as she is trying to prove herself to Sutton Industries, especially after her last protective duty didn't end well. The personalities of Dru and Gray couldn't be further apart! Where Dru is all serious and business, Gray is all fun and play. At times I even wondered if Gray took the threats to his life as serious as he should have. Between threatening letters, an overly obsessed fan, and an interesting housekeeper, can Dru find the person behind all the drama with Gray before she falls in love with him?

This was a fun book to read and it keep me interested from start to finish. I didn't know until I had finished this book that it was part of a series. There were side stories on Dru's family members that had me shaking my head as to why they were included. It all became clear once I finished the book and saw the other books in this series in the back of the book (I don't like to look at the back of a book for any reason until I'm done reading). Now, I'm curious as to these other stories so I will be reading the other books!! The characters in this book seem very realistic and the stories are believable, as if they were your next door neighbors. I enjoyed the suspenseful twist in this book in regards to who Gray's stalker was. I had this person on my list but this person was not my top suspect. The way this book ended was perfect!

This is a christian fiction book but it's not overly heavy on religious issues. Each character does have a vice that they must overcome but it's written in a way that's not overly preachy. There are themes of trust, forgiveness, and of course, love!

Many thanks to Bethany House and Baker Publishers for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review. This is my honest review.

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Hidden in the Stars by Robin Caroll

Hidden in the Stars by Robin Caroll
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sophia has just been chosen for the US Olympic Team in gymnastics and is loving the life she leads. She goes to visit her mother, Nina, a world renowned Russian ballerina, and her life changes in the blink of an eye.

Now, unable to speak due to the trauma of her attack, Sophia is set on helping Julian and his team find the people behind her mother's murder and the attack that took place. What secret does one of the quilts that Nina and Sophia made together hold that can crack this case?

I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone looking for a quick read. I would not say this book is lighthearted, as it does involve a vicious attack and murder. The romance side of it does lighten the mood a bit. I did find the ending a bit predictable but that did not deter me from enjoying this book. I'm not sure I've read anything by Robin Caroll before but I do look forward to more of her work. I love how this book had a focus of forgiveness for several of the characters involved.

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With This Ring? by Karen Witemeyer, Mary Connealy, Regina Jennings, and Melissa Jagears

With This Ring?: A Novella Collection of Proposals Gone Awry by Karen Witemeyer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Most girls dream of that perfect proposal. The one that will sweep them off their feet onto the white horse of their prince so that they might live happily ever after. We all know that the fairytale is mostly just that, a fairytale. Proposals end up being very special to the couple, no matter how many blunders and boo-boos take place. I know my proposal was incredibly unique, even shocking! ;)

In this novella, authors Karen Witemeyer, Mary Connealy, Regina Jennings, and Melissa Jagearseach have a unique story to tell. The Husband Maneuver is all about a young girl named Marietta who loves reading the stories of Dead Eye Dan and his adventures. Dan is now a ranch hand on her father's farm. When it's time to take care of business, everyone leaves the ranch except for Dan...or so everyone thought. I loved the storyline in this one!! Karen has a way of writing to keep everyone in suspense right up until the very end!

Her Dearly Unintended is about a young lady named Katie who is watching over the homestead while her parents take care of business. A bad storm pops up and the neighbor boy, Josiah, happens along to help Katie get her livestock back across the bridge to her home. What Katie wasn't planning on was entertaining unexpected guests! I enjoyed the suspense of this one as well!! I don't believe I'd read anything by Regina Jennings before but I will definitely be looking for more of her work.

Runaway Bride is a novella by Mary Connealy. What I love most about Mary's work is that she incorporates characters into each set of novels that she's previously written about. It's like one big family reunion reading her books! Carrie is betrothed to a loathsome man all because her daddy is trying to pay off a gambling debt. She and her brother, Isaac, run away the day before the wedding is to take place. They sure weren't expecting that happened next!

Engaging the Competition is the most light-hearted read in this novella collection. Melissa writes of two young people who are highly competitive and out to best each other. Harrison has a whole new set of challenges when he loses his glasses and has to rely on Charlie for help.

I highly recommend this novella collection of proposals gone awry!! I read this in a short 2 days and it helped to keep my spirit up during a difficult week!

If you've read this, which was your favorite story and why?

I did receive a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House publishers in exchange for my honest opinion, which you have received here. Happy Reading! :)



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CFBA: Firefly Summer by Kathleen Y'Barbo

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Firefly Summer Redbud Press (June 23, 2015) by Kathleen Y'Barbo

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

RITA and Carol award nominee Kathleen Y’Barbo is the best-selling, award-winning author of more than forty novels, novellas, and young adult books. In all, more than one million copies of her books are currently in print in the US and abroad, and her books have been translated into Dutch, German, and Spanish, to name a few.

Kathleen is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America. She holds a BBA from Texas A&M University’s Mays Business School and a certification in Paralegal Studies, and is a former member of the Texas Bar Association’s Paralegal Division.

A tenth-generation Texan, Kathleen Y’Barbo has four children of her own as well as seven bonus kids she gladly inherited when she married her own hero in combat boots (read about their real-life romance here!). Kathleen is proud to be a military wife, even if it did mean giving up her Texas drivers license.

ABOUT THE BOOK

A new cowboy romance from award-winning author Kathleen Y'Barbo.

Trey’s biggest challenge isn’t performing surgery…it’s restoring Sessa’s heart!

Artist Sessa Chambers may never recover from losing her prodigal son. Even as she grieves the tragic decisions that led to his death, and left her with a toddler to raise, she’s asked to work on her dream project—restoring carousel horses for the Smithsonian. But she can’t do it on her own…

Dr. Trey Brown can’t pick up a scalpel again. Yes, he acted in self-defense, but the events of that awful night haunt him. He was trained to save lives, not take them. When he goes to the young man’s widowed mother to apologize, she’s not at all what he expected. For one thing, she’s not as alone as he thought—not with the fearsome ladies of the Pies, Books, and Jesus Book Club in her corner. For another, she’s beautiful, and being in her presence is more jolting than any eight-second bronco ride from his former rodeo days. Before he knows it, she’s captured his heart as easily as they capture the fireflies gracing Sessa’s Texas ranch.

How can they overcome their past to embrace a future together?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Firefly Summer, go HERE.

This was such a sweet book to read!! It's a bit predictable but the story is so beautifully written, you can't help but fall in love!! Miss Pansie has to be my favorite character!! I cried at what she said in the end!! I won't ruin it for anyone though!! 

I've always enjoyed watching fireflies (or lighting bugs as we called them where I grew up!). They were my nightlight and brought job! My children also enjoy them! 

What I think I love most about this book is all the redemption that takes place in the lives of the characters. Everyone has a vice in their heart to some point and to see these loosen and the person to emerge into a better person made this a very happy book to read. 

Many thanks to the author and publisher, along with CFBA, for an opportunity to read this novel! 

To Win Her Favor by Tamera Alexander

To Win Her Favor by Tamera Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I literally sat and read this book in one sitting!!

Maggie is an avid horse trainer. She and her dad are seeing things in a bleak light and she fears she may lose her land and everything with it. What would she do without her prized horses? That all changes when the Irishman Cullen appears in the cemetery where her dad is praying. When Mr. Linden offers Cullen the deal of a lifetime, there is a stipulation attached. Can Cullen handle that?

I appreciate the brief history lesson that author, Tamera Alexander offers at both the beginning and end of this book. It really put a few things in perspective for me!!

I asked my husband tonight at dinner if he had been in Cullen's situation, what would he have done? Of course, today is a much different place and time than back in Maggie's day. He would not have handled the situation the same way that Cullen did. The romantic in me was a little taken aback by his answer....but then, would I have accepted his actions?

I loved this story on many different levels. The way that Maggie grew to accept those different than her was very heartwarming. I hope we hear more about Kissa in future writings from Ms. Alexander!!

I laughed, I cried, and I fell in love with the characters in this book. During the time I was reading, I have no idea what happened around me because I was fully vested into this story. Thank you for an enjoyable read, Tamera!

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CFBA: Fired Up by Mary Connealy

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Fired Up

(Bethany House March 1,

by

Mary Connealy


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys. She is a Christy Award Finalist, a Carol Award Finalist and an IRCC Award finalist.


The Lassoed in Texas Series, Petticoat Ranch, Calico Canyon and Gingham Mountain. Petticoat Ranch was a Carol Award Finalist. Calico Canyon was a Christy Award Finalist and a Carol Award Finalist. These three books are now contained in one large volume called Lassoed in Texas Trilogy.


The Montana Marriages Series, Montana Rose, The Husband Tree and Wildflower Bride. Montana Rose was a Carol Award Finalist.


Cowboy Christmas—the 2010 Carol Award for Best Long Historical Romance, and an Inspirational Readers Choice Contest Finalist.


The Sophie's Daughters series. Doctor in Petticoats, Wrangler in Petticoats, Sharpshooter in Petticoats.


She is also the author of; Black Hills Blessing a 3-in-1 collection of sweet contemporary romances, Nosy in Nebraska, a 3-in-1 collection of cozy romantic mysteries and she's one of the three authors contributing to Alaska Brides with her Carol Award Winning historical romance Golden Days.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Rollicking Wild West Adventure and Romance from Bestselling Author Mary Connealy


Dare Riker is a doctor who saves lives, but someone seems determined to end his. It may have something to do with the traitors he dealt with during the Civil War, or it might be related to the recent incident with Flint Greer and the ranch. Whoever the culprit is, he or she seems really fired up, and Dare can't let his guard down for a moment, which is a challenge, since right now he's trying to win the heart of the recently widowed Glynna.


Glynna Greer came west as a mail-order bride and ended up in a bad situation. Now her husband, Flint, is dead, and she's determined to care for her son and daughter on her own. She wants to believe Dare Riker is as decent as he seems, but she's terrified to lock herself into another marriage. She plans to support her small family by opening a diner--never mind that cooking is not her greatest talent. The men in Broken Wheel, Texas, are so desperate for home cooking that they seem willing to overlook dried-out beef and blackened biscuits.


Glynna can't help but notice that danger follows Dare wherever he goes. There's the avalanche. And then the fire. But things really get out of hand when someone plunges a knife from Glynna's diner into Dare's back. Are Flint's cronies still plotting revenge? Is Glynna's son engaged in a misguided attempt to protect his mother? Is a shadowy outsider still enraged over past injustices? And can Dare survive long enough to convince Glynna to take another chance on love?


If you would like to read the first chapter of Fired Up, go HERE.


I've been a fan of Mary Connealy for quite some time now. I love her characters and how real they become to me!! This book is no exception! It's an added bonus that it's set in the Civil War area (one of my favorites to read!)! 
I can't help but always get a great laugh out of her characters!! Mary knows how to write an entertaining novel and I look forward to her future ones!! Her covers are also very attractive! Check out Dare on this one!! Hunky doctor looking for love...If I wasn't already married, I'd say sign me up! 

Check this one out today!

A Doctor's Devotion by Cheryl Wyatt

The Doctor's Devotion by Cheryl Wyatt

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I enjoyed this read over a period of about 8 hours. Mitch, a doctor, is opening up a trauma center the same day a dear friend of his granddaughter arrives in town. Lauren is a knock out and agrees to accompany Mitch and her grandfather to the ribbon cutting. However, tragedy strikes before the ribbon can be cut. Choppers land with trauma victims and Mitch and his team are nowhere near prepared for these victims. Lauren is a trained nurse who left the field to pursue other dreams, however she agree to step in...just this once.

Over the course of time, one of those first patients, a girl named Mara, changes things for Lauren. The name Mara must have been carefully chosen because it is more than fitting for this young lady and her prognosis in life. Will Lauren ever return to her love of nursing? Will Mitch ever be able to move on with this love life?

I always enjoy a great nursing/medical/military read. Thank you to Cheryl Wyatt and the publisher for providing a review copy of this book to review.



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Trauma Plan by Candace Calvert

Trauma Plan by Candace Calvert
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Riley Hale is settling in at Alamo Grace as a chaplain and safety officer. Not the plan that she had for her life but after a devastating accident cost her the use of her left arm, she was no longer able to serve as a nurse in the ER. Her soon-to-be roommate, Kate, is the charge nurse of the ER and is helping Riley to improve her skills. While returning to clean up a treatment room, Riley sees a strange man with a needle about to insert it into his skin. As safety officer, it's her duty to protect this man from himself and others. Little does she know, this is Dr. Travis. THE Dr. Travis of the free clinic in town and rotating ER doctor.

The Bluffs community is not pleased with Dr. Travis's free clinic. Too many unsavory incidents have happened there of late. Andrea will do everything she can to be sure that the clinic will be closed down. Meanwhile, many patients are helped by Dr. Travis, Riley, and Bandy. Where will these people receive the care they need if the clinic is to close?

As always, Candace Calvert does not disappoint. I had a very hard time putting this book down once I got started. There is humor, romance, and lots of suspense! I have always enjoyed Ms. Calvert's writing and this one is no different! If I were to pick a favorite character in this book, it would have to be Bandy. He is the best "nurse", besides Riley of course, in this story. Bandy's back story is one that really touched me.

I'll be coming back for more from Nurse Calvert! :)


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Wildflowers from Winter by Katie Ganshert

Wildflowers from Winter: A Novel by Katie Ganshert
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When you read this book, you'll be surprised to find out that this is Katie Ganshert's freshman novel! Bethany Quinn is a very well established architect who has everything going for her. She loves her life in Chicago and is ready to settle down with Dominic. However, she receives a life altering phone call from her mother who she hasn't seen in years. The trip back home is eventful from the beginning. Bethany is left with a lot of decisions to make about life, love, and property. Can she overcome the demons of her past and create a better life for herself and others along the way?

I really liked this book from the beginning. The story line is very clear with characters who could be your next door neighbors (or even your own family members). Bethany reminded me a lot of myself in many ways and I really connected with her quickly. However, I think my favorite character in this book is Evan. He has so much to offer and so few people see his real worth. Maybe it's just because I like the rancher/farmer type! :)

This is a book anyone who enjoys Christian fiction is sure to enjoy! I was excited to see that Robin's (Bethany's best friend) story (Wishing on Willows) will continue in the next book. She sure has a story that I want to know more about.

Fair warning to tender hearted readers like myself...you will need a box (or two!) of tissue handy. I bawled several times reading this book! I wonder how authors can write scenes and not tear up too (or maybe they do!?!?).

I look forward to reading more of Katie's work!! Many thanks to Katie and WaterBrook Press for the review copy to read!

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CFBA: Hope Rekindled by Tracie Peterson

This week, the  Christian Fiction Blog Alliance  is introducing  Hope Rekindled  Bethany House (June 1, 2011)  by  Tracie Peterson  


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tracie Peterson is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than 85 novels.

She received her first book contract in November, 1992 and saw A Place To Belong published in February 1993 with Barbour Publishings' Heartsong Presents.  She wrote exclusively with Heartsong for the next two years, receiving their readership's vote for Favorite Author of the Year for three years in a row.

In December, 1995 she signed a contract with Bethany House Publishers to co-write a series with author Judith Pella.  Tracie now writes exclusively for Bethany House Publishers.

She teaches writing workshops at a variety of conferences on subjects such as inspirational romance and historical research.

Tracie was awarded the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for 2007 Inspirational Fiction and her books have won numerous awards for favorite books in a variety of contests.

Making her home in Montana, this Kansas native enjoys spending time with family--especially her three grandchildren--Rainy, Fox and Max.  She's active in her church as the Director of Women's Ministries, coordinates a yearly writer's retreat for published authors, and travels, as time permits, to research her books


ABOUT THE BOOK

Will Love Escape Her Grasp?


Life seems to be falling into place for Deborah Vandermark. On the cusp of finally marrying Christopher, the man who claimed her heart, she is devastated when he receives an urgent telegram. Bound to his family obligations, Christopher travels to Kansas City, uncertain of what he will find there.

When her fiancé returns to Texas, Deborah is faced with a very different future than she expected. She finds herself plagued with questions and uncertainty...about marriage, motherhood, and her passion to train as a physician. And when an old adversary reveals a contract that may spell ruin for Vandermark Logging, Deborah's life seems to be spiraling out of control. Can Christopher and Deborah find a way to claim the future they long to share when so much stands in the way?

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Hope Rekindled, go HERE.

Fade to Blue by Julie Carobini

Fade to Blue: An Otter Bay Novel by Julie Carobini

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Suz is an artist who finds herself restoring an old door from the Hearst castle. She recently relocated to Otter Bay to get away from her former life. She has to do what is best for her and her son, Jeremiah. Lynn's sentence is about up and she doesn't want him near their son.



Suz is busy at work when she sees the handsome window washer. Wait, could it be? No, it's not him! What would he be doing all the way out here? Well, it is him. Seth, a former flame is the window washer. Was he following her? What would she say to them? Their last meeting was a bit difficult. She did leave him to marry Lynn after all.



Whatever will Suz do? She's living with her brother (he's so kind to take them in) and doing what she can to make a better life for her and Jeremiah. What will happen after she receives a mysterious letter one day?



I enjoyed this book! It's a great read full of romance, adventure, with a little suspense stirred together. I want to read the first two books in this series now!



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My thanks to B&H Fiction for providing the copy for review!

To Win Her Heart by Karen Witemeyer

To Win Her Heart by Karen Witemeyer

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Levi has a past that he would like to leave...in the past. His move to Spencer, TX is just what he needs. The local town is in need of a blacksmith and he has the skill and knowledge to fit the job.



Eden is a lonely lady who is really thinking she'll live the rest of her life alone after what her broken engagement. While she loves books and reading, there are some things that pages in a book cannot replace. She could have anyone she wanted. Afterall, she is the heiress to the town's founder!



Sheriff Pratt is always on the prowl...for women that is. While he desperately wants to woo Eden, she won't give him the time of day. How can he ever win her heart?



This is the 3rd Karen Witemeyer book and I believe she gets better with each one. She spins a tale of romance, humor, and a little bit of suspense as well. The mine scene seemed so real in this book it's as if she was sitting there watching the activity all unfold while writing this story.



My favorite line in this book comes from a scene with Chloe while she's chewing Eden out. Having teenage daughters, it was almost as if they were saying the line and I found it very funny (although the scene is very serious). Chloe says "...but if you can't see the good man he is, you need to unscrew them eyeballs of yours and try on a different pair." I just love that!!!



So who wins who's heart? Well you'll have to read and find that one out. I loved the ending. It was a total surprise to me (based on what I thought would be a small part in the book!). That's all I'm saying about that though! Have a tissue handy...I bawled like a baby through the last 10 pages or so!



Many thanks to Karen and to Bethany House for providing a copy to review. I have also purchased a copy of this book so look for a giveaway soon!



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A Cowboy's Touch by Denise Hunter

A Cowboy's Touch by Denise Hunter

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This is a very sweet, tender romance of a well-known writer and a rancher. Abigail is on a mother-ordered sabbatical from work to go to Montana and and check on her Aunt Lucy. She is not too sure what to make of Aunt Lucy when she arrives in the land of the giant sky, especially when Aunt Lucy talks to her dolls as though they are living. One day while helping Aunt Lucy in her shop, a sweet little girl named Maddy walks in crying because someone stole her back. Abby is now on a mission to help this little girl. That one act of kindness has Maddy running home to her daddy Wade and begging him to hire Abby as her next nanny. So much for R & R!



I loved this story because, while it was Christian fiction, it pushed the limits a bit. I haven't read much "edgy" Christian fiction but I loved it and would recommend it. Some may not appreciate the tender romance talk (even though it is entirely appropriate!). I have always loved stories involving cowboys and Wade is a looker! Many times, however, I found myself mad at him...but then again, he's entitled to a few things!

Many thanks to The B&B Media Group for providing a copy for review.





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