DAUGHTERS OF NORTHERN SHORES by Joanne Bischof, Reviewed by Susan and Winnie

'If God would but grant him another mercy. Should the outcome be dire, he prayed that God would welcome him to peace.'

Oh my. Joanne Bischof never fails to move me deeply with her books. She writes what I like to call heart-deep books. Stories so full and rich that my heart is totally involved.

We first fell in love with Aven and Thor in Sons of Blackbird Mountain and four years have passed and we find them here, married and wonderfully happy and blessedly awaiting the birth of their first child. Then Thor falls gravely ill and with this illness, a weight so heavy upon him, it comes nigh to crushing his spirit, such is the depth of this malady. In the midst of all this, Haakon returns home to the mountain after realizing he cannot be away any longer, the burden of needing to pursue his family's forgiveness for one act causing him increasing pain with each year that passes.

Haakon finds his family in a tenuous situation, facing a decades long feud with neighbors who are evil personified threatening to destroy them all. Haakon has a cunning strength and he decides that this needs to end once and for all, even if the cost is indeed dire to him. But who will emerge the victor? And who will perish? Will this prodigal son find the restoration his heart craves? And Haakon is also finding himself drawn back to northern shores for another reason. If he can only survive this feud.

Bischof must of a certainty carefully and prayerfully craft these characters, bringing them so very much to life in the pages that they spill over into the reader's heart and linger long after the book is finished. I was so incredibly moved during the reading of this book that it was stunning! This is a powerful book of forgiveness, healing and restoration. Bischof shines! Highly recommended.

*My thanks to the publisher for a preview copy of this book. A positive review was not required and the opinions expressed here are entirely my own. 

 
Winnie's Review:
With the characteristic, delicious prose I’ve come to expect from Joanne Bischof, Daughters of Northern Shores picks up where Sons of Blackbird Mountain left off. While this book can be read as a standalone, it will be much more enjoyable if Sons of Blackbird Mountain is read first to get the backstory. It was so enjoyable to return to Blackbird Mountain and revisit the Norgaard family.

Bischof is a master at creating broken, hurting, deeply layered characters, and Haakon fits this description well. After four years spent at sea, he returns home hoping to make amends with his family. When he finds them in peril, his protective instincts kick in. Although I was uncertain how the author was going to redeem Haakon from his youthful actions, she pulled it off magnificently, and I was cheering for him to get his happily ever after. I was hoping for a bit more focus on Haakon and Kjersti’s relationship, but that was the only small disappointment I had. All of the characters were so vividly painted that they came alive on the page, and I could feel the mounting tension as the tale progressed.

This powerful and gripping story is filled with adventure, intrigue, suspense, and romance, but there are also uplifting messages of redemption, courage, importance of family, and the healing that only God can provide. I’m looking forward to more from this fantastic author.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.

BackCover Blurb:

From Christy Award-winning author Joanne Bischof comes the sequel to her beautiful novel Sons of Blackbird Mountain.

Aven Norgaard understands courage. Orphaned within an Irish workhouse, then widowed at just nineteen, she voyaged to America where she was wooed and wed by Thor Norgaard, a Deaf man in rural Appalachia. That the Lord saw her along the winding journey and that Aven now carries Thor's child are blessings beyond measure. Yet while Thor holds her heart, it is his younger brother and rival who haunts her memories. Haakon--whose selfish choices shattered her trust in him.

Having fled the Norgaard orchard after trying to take Aven as his own, Haakon sails on the North Atlantic ice trade, where his soul is plagued with regrets that distance cannot heal. Not even the beautiful Norwegian woman he's pursued can ease the torment. When the winds bear him home after four years away, Haakon finds the family on the brink of tragedy. A decades-old feud with the neighboring farm has wrenched them into the fiercest confrontation on Blackbird Mountain since the Civil War. Haakon's cunning and strength hold the power to seal many fates, including Thor's--which is already imperiled due to a grave illness brought to him at the first prick of warfare.

Now Haakon faces the hardest choice of his life. One that shapes a battlefield where pride must be broken enough to be restored, and where a prodigal son may finally know the healing peace of surrender and the boundless gift of forgiveness. And when it comes to the woman he left behind in Norway, he just might discover that while his heart belongs to a daughter of the north, she's been awaiting him on shores more distant than the land he's fighting for.

Available in digital ebook, paperback, library binding and audiobook:

Buy Daughters of Northern Shores at Amazon

Buy Daughters of Northern Shores at Christianbook.com

TWICE UPON A TIME by Ashley Clark, Reviewed by Kim

Twice Upon a Time, which is inspired by Beauty and the Beast, is Ashley Clark’s debut novella. This is such a cute story. It totally reminded me of the movie Sweet Home Alabama. 

Sawyer is totally smitten with Emma and will do whatever he needs to do to get her back, even if it involves a bit of subterfuge! I really liked Sawyer’s personality and what he was willing to do for Emma. 

Emma was a little harder to like. She had a bit of a chip on her shoulder, which was totally understandable once you learned more about her and Sawyer’s history. It was nice to finally see her come around to what her heart truly wanted. 

I fell in love with The Wistful Teacup - a library turned teashop with books! - and I love how a certain item plays a part in each story. Finding Ever After is a wonderful compilation! 

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. 

 Back Cover Blurb:

Experience a touch of magic with these four fairytale-ish novellas that span over one hundred years. Linked by an illustrated book of fairytales, each novella is an enchanting combination of a beloved classic sprinkled with the author’s own brand of fairy dust.

Between Stairs and Stardust is set in 1913 Asheville, NC at the beautiful Biltmore Estate and includes a budding children’s book illustrator, an out-of-the box heir, and a teensy bit of Cinderella romance.

Entanglements has a Rapunzel twist and is set in 1920’s Boston between a reluctant heiress, a charming piano tuner, and a game of chess.

Twice Upon A Time is a Beauty-And-The-Beast inspired tale that brings a romance novelist back home to her family's pecan farm... and the ex-fiance she left behind.

Once Bitten is a nod to Snow White that includes a fake date with a handsome woodsman, seven geeks, and the world's best apple tarts.

Available in digital ebook:
Buy the collection at Amazon

THE UNEXPECTED CHAMPION by Mary Connealy, Reviewed by Rebecca, Susan and Winnie

Rebecca's Review:
"Honestly she thought of herself as a woman who always looked on the bright side, but right now it was taking all her gumption to do so. "

Stuck out in the middle of nowhere, with a man she barely knows; Penny Scott is having to rely on all of her wilderness skills and then some. Thank goodness John McCall is an honorable sort . . . hopefully . . . but the Pinkerton agent is completely citified and Penny knows that there is not a city anywhere in sight. As if surviving a kidnapping wasn't the worst thing that could happen to them, it seems that being found is going to have some unique consequences as well. Attraction is both a blessing and a curse when one's unexpected champion turns out to be as clever as John McCall.

Be prepared to traipse through the high Sierras on this wild goose chase for vicious criminals who always seem to be one step ahead of justice, while enjoying the author's sharp wit and sassy conversations, which somehow manage to develop into . . . . . kisses?

*I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated are entirely my own.

Susan's Review:
'Penny had little patience for a man who pouted.'

Pinkerton agent John McCall has been sent west by the Chiltons, who want him to find their long-lost grandson. The Chiltons are, however, a pair of lying, scheming, no accounts who only want the boy for his dead mother's inheritance money. When McCall gets west, after having to wait out a deadly winter, he meets up with Penny, part of a group of folks who have a claim in the mountains. They are guardians to the boy and have no intention of letting him go. But first Penny and John have to deal with a dead crook, then they are both kidnapped, escape, travel through the woods for days and then, well, things just escalate from there. Penny is a wildcat, not afraid of anything, can ride, rope, skin an elk, track, read signs, pretty much an all around do anything type of gal. McCall is astounded by her, but then he begins to realize her worth. Things are getting mighty odd around there.

Mary Connealy is back with her cowboy comedies and her trademark wit is in fine form here. She keeps the action moving throughout, the laughter spewing forth and tells a mighty fine tale at the same time. I am a forever fan of this woman and I can't wait to read what she has for us next. Bravo! Highly recommended.

*My thanks to Bethany House for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own. 


Winnie's Review:
Once again, I found myself giggling, snorting, chuckling, and laughing out loud through a Mary Connealy novel. This time it was The Unexpected Champion—the last in High Sierra Sweethearts series. The setting in Nevada in the old west, and the well-crafted, horse riding, homesteading, gun-toting characters (both friendly and dangerous) came to life quickly and drew me right in. I loved the delicious chemistry and witty, hilarious banter between Penny Scott and John McCall, the two main characters. Penny’s strong will and independence combined with John’s handy skills and determination made for a delightful and somewhat quirky couple.

The appearance of some of the characters from previous books in the series was such fun. I loved how Penny’s family and friends all had each other’s backs. If one of them had a problem, the others were ready and willing to ride to the rescue. Immersed in the story are threads of faith, mercy, and love of family that add dimension to it. I’m sad to see this series end, but I’m also looking forward to more books from this highly entertaining author.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the author/publisher/NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

BackCover Blurb:
City dweller John McCall never expected to be out in the High Sierras of 1868 on a wild-goose chase to find the Chiltons' supposedly lost grandson. But now that he's out here, things have gotten even more complicated, mostly due to wildcat Penny Scott. She's not like any woman he's ever met--comfortable in the woods, with a horse, and with a gun.

When Penny and John are taken against their will by a shadowy figure looking for evidence they don't have, both realize they've stumbled into something dangerous and complicated. With their friends and family desperately searching for them, Penny and John must make a daring escape.

When they emerge back into the real world, they are confronted with a kidnapper who just won't stop. They must bring a powerful, ruthless man to justice, even as this city man and country woman fight a very inconvenient attraction to each other. 

Available in digital ebook, paperback,  hardcover and audiobook:
Buy The Unexpected Champion on Amazon
Buy The Unexpected Champion on Christianbook.com

THE HIGHEST OF HOPES by Susan Anne Mason, Reviewed by Trixi and Karen

Trixi's Review:
Family dynamics play a strong role in “The Highest of Hopes” and it's what motivates Emma to cross an ocean to try to discover her place with her father long thought deceased. What she finds isn't what she pictured in her minds eye. She will face many heartaches and it's her resiliency that will shape her character throughout the story. There were many moments that my heart broke for her, especially her inner thought of her own worthlessness. But at the end, one wise person reminded her of how Christ sees her—

“There's only one parent's love you truly need: your heavenly Father's. And the good news is you don't have to earn it, and you don't have to prove yourself worthy to receive it. You are loved for exactly the person you are, with all your faults and flaws. In His eyes, you are a masterpiece. His own wondrous creation.”~page 303

Her best friend since childhood, Jonathan Rowe tags along in spite of his reservations on the kind of reception she may find on the other end. He's the more level-headed of the two and is willing to help Emma through any crisis. In spite of fighting his own demons stemming from the aftereffects of war, he's protective of her and would do anything to prove his love. Though he's always kept that part of his heart hidden. He too will be shaped and molded with the trails and tribulations he faces and eventual realization that love can sometimes be a sacrifice of self.

“Love should never be viewed as a competition. Love requires compromise and sacrifice. There's no place for ego in a marriage.”~pg. 357

Susan Anne Mason writes in such a way that makes you care deeply about her characters and their plight in life. Her stories are highly emotional and always tug at my heartstrings. This was difficult at best to put down when real life interrupted my reading time. Though this is the second book in the “Canadian Crossings” series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone novel. I eagerly await the next installment!

*I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House on behalf of the author and was under no obligation to leave a favorable review. All opinions expressed her are my own. *

Karen's review: 
The Highest of Hopes might take place one hundred years ago, but its characters are so relatable! Emmaline Moore is impulsive, strong-willed, and stubborn. I can relate to her well! Jonathan Rowe, her best friend since childhood, is more level-headed and much slower to act. They make such a lovely team, and I was rooting for them from the beginning!​

Throughout the story Emmaline is consumed with trying to win the affection of her father and his family. Jonathan is always supportive, always there to help her despite the possibility of his heart breaking. He has his own issues to work through, and I admire his determination in trying to better himself even while he’s so far from home.​

When nothing turns out like Emmaline has planned, she is reminded of the truth that we all need to keep in our hearts, the message of eternal, unconditional love from our Heavenly Father. I never tire of the reminder, and the story’s conclusion leave you feeling full of joy and hope!​

*I received a copy of this book from Bethany House and am under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own. ​

BackCover Blurb:
After her beloved grandfather's death, Emmaline Moore is shocked to discover that her "deceased" father is actually living in Canada. Having no other family, Emma decides she must find him, and so embarks on a journey across the ocean, accompanied by her best friend, Jonathan. Unfortunately, Randall Moore and his well-to-do family aren't thrilled by her arrival, fearing her sudden appearance will hinder his chance at becoming mayor of Toronto in 1919. Despite everything, Emma remains determined to earn their affection.

Jonathan Rowe has secretly loved Emma for years and hopes that during their trip he can win her heart. Concerned that Randall might reject her, Jonathan is ready to console Emma and bring her home. When she informs him that she has no intention of returning to England, Jonathan begins to despair. Can he convince Emma to find value within herself rather than seeking it from a virtual stranger? And will she ever come to see that Jonathan is her true home?

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover and audiobook:
Buy The Highest of Hopes at Amazon
Buy The Highest of Hopes at Christianbook.com

NEVER LET GO by Elizabeth Goddard, Review by Winnie and Kim

Winnie's Review:
Never Let Go drew me right in and kept me turning pages. I was intrigued by the fact that the heroine, Willow Anderson, was a forensic genealogist. It was interesting to learn more about what that involved and how she used her knowledge to help solve cases. Elizabeth Goddard is talented at creating engaging and multi-layered characters. Willow Anderson and Austin McKade are easy to visualize and come to life on the page. A stellar cast of supporting characters added to the story.

With a compelling and complex plot, and lot of adventure and suspense, and a dash of romance, Goddard’s new series is off to a great start. I enjoyed the underlying messages of faith, courage, and forgiveness that added depth to the story. There were a couple of places I felt could have been a bit more tightly written, and at times I was a bit confused by some of the characters, but I felt the author did a great job of unfolding the story layer by layer and keeping the action coming. I would recommend this book and author to those who enjoy romantic suspense.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review, and all opinions are my own.

Kim's Review:
Whew!!! Never Let Go, by Elizabeth Goddard, is a fast paced romantic suspense that will keep you turning the pages while trying to figure out who the bad guy is! I was accusing EVERYONE! This story is excellent! It has one of my favorite tropes - old flames! I love how Elizabeth handles the reunion of Austin and Willow. So many times, when old flames are reunited, there is too much turmoil and anger. Not so in this case!

I really liked both Willow and Austin. The action was well paced and the mystery was well done! I loved the rugged Wyoming setting. It really added to the suspense in certain parts of the story. There was even a bit of humor in this story. There’s a scene when willow thought Austin was losing it that had me chuckling! It was in a very tense moment too. I love when authors add a touch of humor to an otherwise tense situation. The elements of faith throughout the book were well done and felt natural and not forced. I am really looking forward to Heath’s story next! I highly recommend this book!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. 

BackCover Blurb:
As a forensic genealogist, Willow Anderson is following in her late grandfather's footsteps in her quest for answers about a baby abducted from the hospital more than twenty years ago. The case may be cold, but things are about to heat up when someone makes an attempt on her life to keep her from discovering the truth.

Ex-FBI agent--and Willow's ex-flame--Austin McKade readily offers his help to protect the woman he never should have let get away. Together they'll follow where the clues lead them, even if it means Austin must face the past he's spent much of his life trying to forget. And even if it puts Willow's tender heart at risk.

In this fast-paced and emotional page-turner, bestselling author Elizabeth Goddard keeps the stakes high, the romantic tension sparking, and the outcome uncertain until the very end.

 Available in digital ebook, paperback, audiobook and hardcover:
Buy Never Let Go at Amazon
Buy Never Let Go at Christianbook.com

 

Just Reads Tour- HER COLORADO COWBOY by Mindy Obenhaus with Review by Karen Klepsteen

Welcome to the Blog Tour and Giveaway for Her Colorado Cowboy by Mindy Obenhaus, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Her Colorado Cowboy

Series: Rocky Mountain Heroes, Book 3

Author: Mindy Obenhaus

Publisher: Harlequin Love Inspired

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release Date: March 19, 2019

Lassoing the single mom’s heart…

A Rocky Mountain Heroes story

Socialite Lily Davis agrees to take her children riding…despite her fear of horses.

But now widowed cowboy Noah Stephens is determined to help her get comfortable in the saddle. And, at her children’s insistence, Lily finds herself promoting his rodeo school.

As Noah and Lily work together, will Noah continue to shield his heart…or can they discover a love that conquers both their fears?

LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository | Christian Book | iTunes

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

It took Mindy Obenhaus forty years to figure out what she wanted to do when she grew up, but once God called her to write, she never looked back. A three-time Carol Award finalist, Mindy is passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. When she’s not writing, she enjoys cooking and spending time with her grandchildren at her Texas ranch.

CONNECT: website | facebook | twitter | pinterest | goodreads | bookbub

Karen's Review:

Her Colorado Cowboy is such a sweet love story about letting go of your fears and past heartaches! I can totally relate to Lily Davis’s reluctance to grow closer to Noah Stephens, owner of the ranch where her children go on a horseback ride. As handsome and appealing as a cowboy might be, like Lily, I’m a total city girl. Also, I’m not extremely afraid of horses like Lily is, but I’ll admit that their large size does make me nervous!  

As the story progresses, Noah grows closer to Lily over the course of the summer, and he also falls for her two children. I think that this is one of the best parts of the book! I loved getting glimpses of Noah’s tender side as he had parenting moments with Lily’s kids. The story has a sweet conclusion, and now I’m excited to catch up on the rest of the Rocky Mountain Heroes series!

*I received a copy of this book from JustRead Publicity Tours and am under no obligation to provide a positive review. All opinions are my own.

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will win:

a signed copy of Her Colorado Cowboy

$15 Amazon gift card

Enter via the Rafflecopter giveaway below. Giveaway will begin at midnight March 25, 2019 and last through 11:59 pm April 1, 2019. US only. Void where prohibited by law. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

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DARKWATER LIES by Robin Caroll, Reviewed by Susan Snodgrass

'You'd be amazed at what the right bit of motivation can do to move people to do things you'd never think they would.'
Robin Caroll outdoes her previous book in her Darkwater Inn series with this one. She is in top form here. Adelaide Fountaine, general manager of the Darkwater Inn, has just returned from a six month time away when she is informed that the security of the inn has been hacked, two murders have been committed and a priceless royal tiara has been stolen. What? The princess to whom the tiara belongs is staying at the inn to ride in a parade but how can she without this tiara? And how did all this happen, anyway? Was more stolen than the tiara and cash? As sometimes is the case, things are not exactly what they appear in the Darkwater Inn.

Detective Beau Savoie, who has long held a torch for Addy, is called in to investigate, and is having a hard time dealing with the fact that the owner's son, Dimitri, who is a chef at the inn, also cares for Addy. But first, these murders, the hack and the heist must be solved.

Caroll ramps it up in this second book in the series, adding more layers every few chapters, till the reader is clueless. I had no idea the culprit. Then, there is more to solve when Addy is kidnapped! How does Caroll do it? How does she create such intense drama with such intrigue? I was all in from the very start and I can't wait till the last book in the series. I think all Caroll's readers want to know which man Addy will choose, too. I know I do! Team Beau all the way here! Bravo to Robin Caroll for a job well done. Highly recommended.

*My thanks to the author and publisher for a preview copy of this book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. 

BackCover Blurb:
Adelaide Fountaine, general manager of the Darkwater Inn, has just returned to New Orleans from a six-month sabbatical in Europe. She's rested and ready to take on the inn's busiest season: Mardi Gras. But Adelaide hardly has time to unpack before a jewel heist interrupts a visit from foreign royalty. A priceless tiara goes missing from the hotel's safe, and three people are left dead.
 
Detective Beau Savoie discovers the robbery was an inside job, making everybody at the Darkwater Inn a suspect--including Dimitri, the son of the inn's owner and Beau's competition for Adelaide's heart.

Tensions are high, and the stakes get even higher when Adelaide is abducted. Can Dimitri and Beau put aside their distrust and work together to save her?

Available in digital ebook and paperback.
Buy Darkwater Lies at Amazon
Buy Darkwater Lies at Christianbook.com
 

THE ALAMO BRIDE by Kathleen Y'Barbo, reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

The Alamo Bride by Kathleen Y’Barbo is book seven in The Daughters of the Mayflower series from Barbour Publishing. 

I have enjoyed these peeks into history. Each one of these stories is unique and I gleaned new information into these periods of history. I eagerly await the next books!

The Alamo Bride is very well written. Ms. Y’Barbo weaves a very believable story. There is the quandary of Clay Gentry, a New Orleans Grey soldier, who gets injured and loses his memory. He only knows he has a mission to perform. He is nursed back to health by Ellis Valmont. Together they travel to The Alamo to rescue her brother, Thomas. As memory gradually returns, Clay’s mission is revealed as having something to do with helping Texas win freedom from Mexico. There is excitement as they face danger.

The overarching theme is taken from Psalm 91. Ellis has chosen to memorize this Psalm and Clay is very familiar with it. The Valmont family takes God and His Word very seriously, attributing all to God, never to luck.

This story was a fascinating depiction of circumstances surrounding the incident at the Alamo, with just a brief mention of the actual battle there. Ms. Y’Barbo has done an impressive job researching the area and time period.

If you like good historical fiction, give this book and series a try.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

BackCover Blurb:
Will Ellis Lose All at the Alamo?
Ellis Dumont finds a man in New Orleans Grey unconscious on Dumont property in 1836. As his fevers rage, the man mutters strange things about treasures and war. Either Claiborne Gentry has lost his mind or he’s a spy for the American president—or worse, for the Mexican enemy that threatens their very lives. With the men of her family away, Ellis must stand courageous and decide who she can trust. Will she put her selfish wants ahead of the future of the republic or travel with Clay to Mission San Jose to help end the war?

Available in digital ebook, paperback and library binding:
Buy The Alamo Bride at Amazon
Buy The Alamo Bride at Christianbook.com
 

FAR SIDE OF THE SEA by Kate Breslin, Reviewed by Trixi and Karen

Trixi's Review:
Rich with historical detail of WWI and the backdrop of Paris and Barcelona, Kate Breslin gives us a fictional account of Lieutenant Colin Mabry, wounded in war and trying to find his way in a new life. Decoding a personal message delivered by a carrier pigeon, he ventures on a quest that will test the limits of his heart, his faith and his strength. Full of adventure, danger, espionage, spies, and in a world plunged in war, will he find love among the chaos?

“For a moment, he gazed at the woman beside him, considering how little he really knew about Johanna Ryer. And then a sudden, disquieting thought…How much more he still wanted to learn.”

I've only read a couple of books set in WWI and I felt Breslin did a wonderful job portraying what it must have been like for her characters to live in that time. The idea of sending messages via carrier pigeon was fascinating to me, a piece of history I didn't know about. They had to travel many miles in dangerous conditions to deliver sensitive information to the front lines. It was so interesting to read about! In reality, the whole story was very enjoyable, one that was meaty and had lots to discover in it. I could probably re-read this and find something new within the pages each time! I also loved getting to know both Colin and Johanna, two people thrown together by happenstance for one mission and finding their inner worth along the way.

“Johanna’s illegitimacy had made her growing-up years difficult, subjected to ignorance and the prejudice of others. It bothered him to think she believed herself beneath God’s love and His miracles.”

Breslin mixed up a remarkable tale of love, faith, romance, and wartime and made it all work for this reader, leaving me fully satisfied at the end. A stunning example from an extraordinary author.

*I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House via Netgalley and was under no obligation to leave a favorable review. All opinions are my own. *

Karen's Review:
After time spent at the Front in WWI, Colin Mabry is left with scars both physical and emotional. Despite these limitations, Colin is determined to do right by Jewel Reyer, the French woman who protected him behind enemy lines. He is caught completely off guard by an urgent note from her, requesting his help. When he arrives back in France and finds Johanna, Jewel’s half-sister, instead, he’s immediately suspicious. As they work together to untangle an increasingly complex plot, they are drawn closer to each other and further into danger.

Now, I admit that I was curious to see how Kate Breslin was going to bring the story to a peaceful conclusion with the possibility of two sisters competing for one man’s affection. I shouldn’t have worried, though. Colin’s and Johanna’s personal struggles are handled with sensitivity and a beautiful message of hope, and the ending is so wonderfully satisfying!

Far Side of the Sea has all the right notes of mystery, tender romance, and faith. I highly recommend this book to everyone but especially to those who are interested in the unique history of World War I. While this book can be read as a standalone story, I recommend enjoying Not By Sight first. 

*I received a copy of this book through NetGalley and am under no obligation to provide a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Back Cover Blurb:
In spring 1918, Lieutenant Colin Mabry, a British soldier working with MI8 after suffering injuries on the front, receives a message by carrier pigeon. It is from Jewel Reyer, the woman he once loved and who saved his life--a woman he believed to be dead. Traveling to France to answer her urgent summons, he desperately hopes this mission will ease his guilt and restore the courage he lost on the battlefield.

Colin is stunned, however, to discover the message came from Jewel's half sister, Johanna. Johanna, who works at a dovecote for French Army Intelligence, found Jewel's diary and believes her sister is alive in the custody of a German agent. With spies everywhere, Colin is skeptical of Johanna, but as they travel across France and Spain, a tentative trust begins to grow between them.

When their pursuit leads them straight into the midst of a treacherous plot, danger and deception turn their search for answers into a battle for their lives.

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover and audiobook:
Buy Far Side of the Sea at Amazon
Buy Far Side of the Sea at Christianbook.com

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Welcome: Book Blogger Phyllis Helton of Among the Reads!

Hooray! Our Book Blogger Guest posts are back and Phyllis Helton is my first guest of the year.
 
Debra: So- how long have you been reviewing and how did you decide on the theme for your blog?

Phyllis: I started reviewing around 6 years ago, but originally it was only for one author. As time went on, the number of authors I reviewed for grew and in the summer of 2017 I decided that I read and reviewed enough books each month, I should start a blog.

My husband and brainstormed names and with his help we came up with Among the Reads with a tag line of "drawing treasures from a sea of words". I actually could have used a ".com" but with the name and tagline, it just seemed too much fun to use the ".net". As my hubby helped me create a banner image, having the net to draw the books from the word-art waves containing first lines of famous books, it simply fit.
 
Debra: I've always loved that graphic. Nice job!
What’s the best part of being a reviewer?

Phyllis: Reading. :-)

I also love connecting with authors that I probably wouldn't have met if I wasn't doing this, and love sharing debut authors with the world.

I recently had a debut author contact me to review his book. His daughter is also a writer and I had written some reviews for her. Through emailing back and forth, I felt like we became friends and after his book released, he told me:

I wanted to say that whatever happens in the future, I will always credit you with giving me my start. Your interactions and feedback in the lead up to the release were very helpful and encouraging. Once the book released, the first few days felt like an eternity. It was like sailing in uncharted waters, and your solitary review was like a beam from a lighthouse!

It certainly makes me want to do this more and more!

Debra: Good. I hope it's a reminder to all book bloggers of the importance of all your hard work! With authors being almost entirely responsible for 'getting the word out', book bloggers are more important than ever!
That said...what’s the most difficult part of the ‘the job’?

Believe it or not, it is harder to write a review for a 4 star book than one with only 3 stars, at least for me. 5 star books are just so obviously wonderful it is easy to gush about them. I find that the language of these books often finds its way into my wording as well.

3 star books I generally have pros and cons I can share so it is easy to come up with plenty to say. And, yes, I do my best to keep it positive - maybe a little too much so. I've had my husband read my reviews and ask me why it sounds so good and yet I only gave it 3 stars.

But 4 star books. They are good, but not "gushable". I don't necessarily want to continue reading and slow down to savor at the same time. At the same time, there aren't really any major cons. So it is sometimes harder to come up with the words to express my thoughts.

And equally hard is passing up on opportunities to review books so I still have time to eat, interact with my husband, work and sleep. "No" is a word I am still learning to use!
Debra: What was the last book you read that you couldn’t put down?
This weekend I read Daughters of Northern Shores by Joanne Bischof. It was one of those stories that just reaches in and squeezes your heart! 

Debra: No surprise! I'm still recovering from The Lady and the Lionheart! 

What keeps you busy or entertained (beyond reading and reviewing!)?

I work full-time as a database administrator/programmer for a large Christian mission organization, help with bookkeeping for my (very small) church, teach Sunday School, and watch movies with my husband on the weekend. I do love to take walks and also love photography.
Debra: What is your fiction favorite…setting? Place and time? Genre’?

 
It is really hard to pick favorites. I love historicals, fantasy, mystery, action/adventure, and romance. I have read some paranormal that I have really enjoyed as well. What I do not like is witches, zombies and the like and I am too wimpy to read books that are too suspenseful or gory.

Debra: If you had a rainy afternoon alone to watch a movie what would it be? And what meal would you have delivered if that afternoon included a quiet evening as well? I’m paying with my virtual bank account!

To be honest, if I was alone, I wouldn't be watching a movie - I'd read. If I was with my husband and was picking the movie, The Princess Bride, Pride and Prejudice (well, anything with Greer Garson), The Mighty, While You Were Sleeping, or maybe a swashbuckler. And I'm assuming if you are paying with your virtual bank account, food allergies and calories won't count. So for dinner, I would get some gourmet pizza, something Mexican, or maybe even Thai. And I'd have cheesecake for dessert. 

Debra: (darn those food allergies!) I'll likely be joining you for any of the above!

If you could wiggle your nose and be in your dream career, what would it be? Or are you already living it?
Some days I'd say I have my dream career, others, maybe not. Databases can be cantankerous!

I've been loving the things I've been doing with my blog, connecting with authors and promoting them, and, of course, reading. If I could find a way to actually make money doing this, I would. As long as it wasn't too administrative.

Debra: Book blogging is really a labor of love. Reading books doesn't quite pay the bills! (sort of like writing them...)
What piece of advice would you offer authors who are just starting out?
I know there are many authors who write a book, do a pass or two of editing and then release. I don't recommend this at all. It shows in the end product, even when the author is really good. Even if your grammar is excellent, find an editor. And don't assume one pass with the editor will be enough. As you revise, have your editor re-read. Spend time going over your manuscript and then set it aside until you aren't remembering what you intended and then go over it again.

I also recommend that if you aren't artistic - don't design your own cover. And maybe you should not have your (fill in the blank) create it either. While I try hard to not judge a book by the cover, I do. And so do most of your potential readers.

And use social media to create interest. Have all your family and friends reach out on their media and take advantage of bloggers like me who don't know enough to charge for promotion. :-)

Debra: Absolutely agree. Even after editing by multiple people things slip through. And once an editor has recommended even the smallest of tweaks, it needs another read through!
Same for new reviewers--

If you normally read 3 books a week, don't commit to reading more than 1 a week at the beginning. The rate at which I finish books has slowed due to reviewing. I have spent up to four hours working on a review post. They don't all take that long, but if you are blogging, there is more to it than just typing up your review. Learn the pace that you can maintain, and don't feel like you have to say yes to every book request or review opportunity. Don't worry, there will always be plenty of books to read!

And pray! I try to remember to pray before writing any review. I do that more naturally when I've committed via a blog tour to review and didn't care much for the book. I hate the idea of hurting someone with my words and realize that authors pour their hearts into their works, so to be critical is hard, and yet I want to always be honest. 


Debra: Great suggestions, Phyllis! I'm so glad you were able to be our guest. I've been following your blog for quite awhile and I'm pleased to have you here.

Thank you for allowing me to share! I would love to have you visit me on my blog and let me know you came from Inkwell Inspirations. 
 
My blog can be found at http://amongTheReads.net. 
I am also at www.twitter.com/amongTheReads, 
www.facebook.com/amongTheReads, 
www.pinterest.com/amongTheReads, 
and www.instagram.com/amongTheReads

THE MAKING OF MRS. HALE and A HERO FOR MISS HATHERLEIGH by Carolyn Miller, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

The Making of Mrs. Hale is the third book in the Promise of Hope series.

One of my favorite genres is historical fiction and within that Regency is special. So when I discovered Carolyn Miller wrote in this time period, I just had to try her books. I immediately fell in love with her stories and the people who inhabit them. I have devoured each one as they came out. This one is exceptionally good.

Hope resonates through this book, even in the midst of hopeless situations.

A hasty marriage finds Julia and Major Thomas Hale at odds with each other, mostly because Thomas has gone off on some business and has not returned, putting Julia in a precarious position. Julia has been left to fend for herself. She has run out of funds and slinks back home to London, only to find her brother and her mother gone from their residence.

Trouble seems to follow Thomas. Some might find this unrealistic, but I know of several people who fit the adage: If he didn’t have bad luck, he would have no luck at all. Thomas has landed in a Spanish prison, thinking he has left Julia provided for. There is much intrigue as the story plays out.

Carolyn Miller shows family loyalty but sometimes at the cost of showing little mercy.
Several characters take a journey of faith as they learn to forgive, repent and find their bearings and, yes, hope once more. One of the best parts was the clear-cut message of the Gospel. This was done in an authentic way as people seek the Will of God and as others help to water the faith that is there. Hard subjects such as imprisonment, poverty, and infidelity are handled with finesse and grace.

It is nice to see old friends from Carolyn’s other books dropping by and having a part in the story, too.

If you haven’t tried a book by Carolyn Miller, I highly recommend you do.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

Note: See Winnie and Susan's Reviews too!

BackCover Blurb:
Marry in haste, repent in leisure—Mrs. Hale is about to find out how painful that repentance can truly be.

Julia Hale ran off to be married in Gretna Green, following romance instead of common sense. But her tale isn't turning into a happily ever after. Her new husband is gone and she doesn't know where—or if he's ever coming back. Julia has no option but to head home to the family she betrayed by eloping and to hope they'll forgive her. Especially now that she might be carrying a baby from her brief marriage.

Carolyn Miller's clean and wholesome Regency romances continue with The Making of Mrs. Hale, following familiar characters as they learn how restoration can occur by finding hope and healing through a deep relationship with God. Full of rich historical details and witty banter, this series continues to draw in fans of Jane Austen, Sarah Ladd, and Julie Klassen.

Available as digital ebook, paperback, hardcover and audiobook:
Buy The Making of Mrs. Hale at Amazon
Buy The Making of Mrs. Hale at Christianbook.com

A Hero for Miss Hatherleigh is a thoroughly enjoyable Regency book and the first in the Daughters of Aynsley series.

The Regency period is one of my favorites to immerse myself in, and Carolyn Miller writes this genre admirably. What intrigued me was the fascination with archeology of the time period. It was well-represented in this tale.

Mr. Gideon Kirby is searching for fossil specimens in the cliffs around Sidmouth in Devon, England. He is also caring for his ailing sister, Emma. Miss Caroline Hatherleigh has been shuffled off to her grandmother’s house in the same village in order to circumvent a possible awkward situation. As the story unfolds, Caroline becomes friends with Emma. There are many things that keep the story interesting. Among theese are: deepening friendships,coming to Salvation, shaky romances, a reprehensible villain, exciting discoveries, secrets kept and revealed, and gratitude for family and friends.

The faith journey of Caroline was very clear and believable.

The setting was a joy to experience. The inclusion of a complete wedding ceremony of the time period caused me to rethink how such ceremonies have changed, and what the emphasis of the ceremony should be.

If you enjoy Regency tales in the style of Jane Austen— run to the nearest book store and obtain a copy of this riveting first book in the new series by Carolyn Miller.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel Publishers on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

BackCover Blurb:
Can a very proper noble lady find a future with a fossil-hunting man of faith?

As the daughter of Viscount Aynsley, Caroline Hatherleigh knows every rule of society—and she’s always followed them precisely. It’s simply the way things are done in her world. When she visits south Devonshire and encounters a fossil-hunting scientist and his sister, her assumptions about what is right are shaken. She is suddenly confronted by questions she has never considered about the importance of friendship and faith—and her comfortable understanding about how the world works is thrown off balance.

Gideon Kirby loves science, and hunting down proof of past lives is a joy he won’t willingly give up. But his scientific leanings are being challenged by both his personal beliefs and by local smugglers in the Devonshire countryside. And every day his sister’s illness is becoming more desperate and her care grows more demanding. Adding a proper Viscount’s daughter to the mix is a complication Gideon never expected—especially since he has a secret that demands he stays far away from this young woman he’s falling for in order to protect his beloved sister.

When a mysterious stranger visits the village, that secret is set to be exposed, no matter how Gideon fights. Then tragedy strikes in a smugglers cave. And the threat of scandal may lead to broken hearts and passionless propriety. Will the shaky bond these two have managed to build be strong enough to overcome their differences—or will the trust they’ve withheld from each other end up tearing three lives apart?

Available in digital ebook, paperback:
Buy A Hero for Miss Hatherleigh at Amazon
Buy A Hero for Miss Hatherleigh at Christianbook.com