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| Click on the link below for more details and your chance to win! https://promosimple.com/ps/a725 |
Friday, October 21, 2016
A SIster's Wish and An Amish Family Christmas Book Pack Giveaway!
A Sister's Wish and An Amish Family Christmas by Shelley Shepard Gray
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received these books free from the publisher through the LitFuse Publications book blogger campaign. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Shelley Shepard Gray is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time HOLT Medallion winner. She lives in southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town's bike trail.
Dynamic Uno here: I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the fictional people living in the Amish town of Charm, Ohio. The first two books in the series: A Son's Vow and A Daughter's Dream were just the introduction to the Kinsinger family saga, with these two as the book-endings.
A Sister's Wish is book 3 in the series and focuses on Amelia, the sister who takes care of the home front while the other siblings are off either working, or in Levi's case, away from the family. While she is by far the sweetest of the Kinsinger clan, I could see why she had a soft spot for the rough and tumble Simon. (After all, isn't the stereotype that the good girls want the bad boys because they see a sense of adventure and daring that they wouldn't have otherwise?) Thankfully, for Amelia's sake, Simon no longer lived the rough lifestyle that he grew up with and that carried over into part of his adult life.
I enjoyed this book in the series because it reminds us all that no matter what we have done in our past, God still forgives and has redeemed us. Something I know that I need to be reminded of on a regular basis.
Book 4, An Amish Family Christmas, was a great way to wrap up the series--although if it were up to me, it would have been waaaaayyyy longer because I don't want to say goodbye to the characters. Levi has finally returned home after fleeing to Pinecraft, Florida after their father's death. Rather than live in the large family home, he decides to rent a house in town. There, he begins a friendship with his neighbor Julia and her daughter Penny. Julia has her own issues and secrets, but after Levi befriends her, she begins to realize that she doesn't have to be ashamed of her past and her secrets no longer have to stay that way.
I think out of all four of the books in the series this one was my favorite. All of the siblings found their life-match and despite the difficulties they had to endure, they were able to overcome them with the help of friends, family, and their faith in God.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this series. The Kinsinger clan and the the other characters were realistically written and had to overcome many of the same struggles that you and I face each day. It's nice to read an author who is not afraid to tackle these challenges in her writing and to portray them in such a way that hope and love are the remaining responses.
If you think the Amish have an idealistic life and that nothing bad ever happens to them, you're wrong. They suffer from the same tragedies and heartaches that the rest of us face, but they rely on their faith, friends, and family to help them get by. This is an excellent series and I can't wait to read more by this author!
Let me know what you think in the comments section and Happy Reading!
BOOK GIVEAWAY TIME...
About the book:
A Sister's Wish (Avon Inspire, September 2016)
In Shelley Shepard Gray's third book in her Charmed Amish Life series, a respectable young woman finds herself falling for an Amish man from the wrong side of the tracks.
Amelia Kinsinger is the perfect Amish woman---at least according to her neighbors. And while Amelia takes pride in her role as homemaker, she's also harboring a secret: She's been in love with bad boy Simon Hochstetler for as long as she can remember. Too bad he's about as far from "perfect" as an Amish man could get . . . but that's exactly why she's so drawn to him.
Life hasn't been kind to Simon. He ran away from an abusive home at fifteen and things went downhill from there. Eventually, Simon landed in prison. But the experience changed him. Now back in Charm as a grown man, he's determined to make a new life for himself and not think too much about his wild past . . . unless it pertains to Amelia.
He's loved Amelia for years. To him, she represents everything good and kind in the world. When he realizes that she returns his affections, he starts calling on her in secret, even though her older brother Lukas---who just happens to be Simon's best friend---has made it perfectly clear that Amelia deserves better. Simon disagrees and believes he's the only one who can truly make her happy.
But when Amelia gets hurt, it sets off a chain of events that forces them to consider their future together---and face their past mistakes. There's a chance for love . . . but only if Simon dares to trust Amelia with the secrets of his past.
In Shelley Shepard Gray's third book in her Charmed Amish Life series, a respectable young woman finds herself falling for an Amish man from the wrong side of the tracks.
Amelia Kinsinger is the perfect Amish woman---at least according to her neighbors. And while Amelia takes pride in her role as homemaker, she's also harboring a secret: She's been in love with bad boy Simon Hochstetler for as long as she can remember. Too bad he's about as far from "perfect" as an Amish man could get . . . but that's exactly why she's so drawn to him.
Life hasn't been kind to Simon. He ran away from an abusive home at fifteen and things went downhill from there. Eventually, Simon landed in prison. But the experience changed him. Now back in Charm as a grown man, he's determined to make a new life for himself and not think too much about his wild past . . . unless it pertains to Amelia.
He's loved Amelia for years. To him, she represents everything good and kind in the world. When he realizes that she returns his affections, he starts calling on her in secret, even though her older brother Lukas---who just happens to be Simon's best friend---has made it perfectly clear that Amelia deserves better. Simon disagrees and believes he's the only one who can truly make her happy.
But when Amelia gets hurt, it sets off a chain of events that forces them to consider their future together---and face their past mistakes. There's a chance for love . . . but only if Simon dares to trust Amelia with the secrets of his past.
About the book:
An Amish Family Christmas (Avon Inspire, October 2016)
In Shelley Shepard Gray's fourth book in her Charmed Amish Life series, an unlikely Amish romance reveals that Christmas is a time for family, miracles---and love.
Ever since his father died in a tragic fire, Levi Kinsinger has felt adrift. Newly returned to Charm, Ohio, Levi is trying to fit into his old life, only to discover he seems to have outgrown it.
But when Julia, his young widowed neighbor, asks for his help with a Christmas project, Levi finds a sense of purpose for the first time in months. She and her daughter are new to Charm and could use a friend, a job Levi takes personally. Soon enough, friendship grows into attraction, but Levi can't help having doubts. There's something about Julia that doesn't ring quite true . . .
Like Levi, Julia Kemps has survived her fair share of hardships---but only by hiding the truth of her past. Being an unmarried mother in an Amish community was unthinkable. Feeling hopeless, Julia did the only thing she could do: she moved to a new town and pretended to be a widow. But meeting Levi, she's hopeful for the first time. Little by little, she begins to imagine telling him her darkest secret, and eventually . . . perhaps even sharing her life with him.
Christmas is a time for family, and as the holiday draws closer, Julia and Levi will have to face their pasts together . . . in order to find the healing, support and love they so desperately desire.
In Shelley Shepard Gray's fourth book in her Charmed Amish Life series, an unlikely Amish romance reveals that Christmas is a time for family, miracles---and love.
Ever since his father died in a tragic fire, Levi Kinsinger has felt adrift. Newly returned to Charm, Ohio, Levi is trying to fit into his old life, only to discover he seems to have outgrown it.
But when Julia, his young widowed neighbor, asks for his help with a Christmas project, Levi finds a sense of purpose for the first time in months. She and her daughter are new to Charm and could use a friend, a job Levi takes personally. Soon enough, friendship grows into attraction, but Levi can't help having doubts. There's something about Julia that doesn't ring quite true . . .
Like Levi, Julia Kemps has survived her fair share of hardships---but only by hiding the truth of her past. Being an unmarried mother in an Amish community was unthinkable. Feeling hopeless, Julia did the only thing she could do: she moved to a new town and pretended to be a widow. But meeting Levi, she's hopeful for the first time. Little by little, she begins to imagine telling him her darkest secret, and eventually . . . perhaps even sharing her life with him.
Christmas is a time for family, and as the holiday draws closer, Julia and Levi will have to face their pasts together . . . in order to find the healing, support and love they so desperately desire.
Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/2dYRwqr
About the author:
Dynamic Uno here: I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the fictional people living in the Amish town of Charm, Ohio. The first two books in the series: A Son's Vow and A Daughter's Dream were just the introduction to the Kinsinger family saga, with these two as the book-endings.
A Sister's Wish is book 3 in the series and focuses on Amelia, the sister who takes care of the home front while the other siblings are off either working, or in Levi's case, away from the family. While she is by far the sweetest of the Kinsinger clan, I could see why she had a soft spot for the rough and tumble Simon. (After all, isn't the stereotype that the good girls want the bad boys because they see a sense of adventure and daring that they wouldn't have otherwise?) Thankfully, for Amelia's sake, Simon no longer lived the rough lifestyle that he grew up with and that carried over into part of his adult life.
I enjoyed this book in the series because it reminds us all that no matter what we have done in our past, God still forgives and has redeemed us. Something I know that I need to be reminded of on a regular basis.
Book 4, An Amish Family Christmas, was a great way to wrap up the series--although if it were up to me, it would have been waaaaayyyy longer because I don't want to say goodbye to the characters. Levi has finally returned home after fleeing to Pinecraft, Florida after their father's death. Rather than live in the large family home, he decides to rent a house in town. There, he begins a friendship with his neighbor Julia and her daughter Penny. Julia has her own issues and secrets, but after Levi befriends her, she begins to realize that she doesn't have to be ashamed of her past and her secrets no longer have to stay that way.
I think out of all four of the books in the series this one was my favorite. All of the siblings found their life-match and despite the difficulties they had to endure, they were able to overcome them with the help of friends, family, and their faith in God.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this series. The Kinsinger clan and the the other characters were realistically written and had to overcome many of the same struggles that you and I face each day. It's nice to read an author who is not afraid to tackle these challenges in her writing and to portray them in such a way that hope and love are the remaining responses.
If you think the Amish have an idealistic life and that nothing bad ever happens to them, you're wrong. They suffer from the same tragedies and heartaches that the rest of us face, but they rely on their faith, friends, and family to help them get by. This is an excellent series and I can't wait to read more by this author!
Let me know what you think in the comments section and Happy Reading!
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BOOK GIVEAWAY TIME...
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| Click on the link below to enter to win the book pack giveaway! https://promosimple.com/ps/a725 |
Saturday, July 9, 2016
Murder Mezzo Forte by Donn Taylor (Preston Barclay Mystery #2)
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the LitFuse Publications book blogger campaign. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
About the book:
Murder Mezzo Forte (Lamplighter Mysteries, June 2016)
He is a reclusive history professor with musical hallucinations. . . .
She a headstrong professor of religion, a converted Wiccan. Earlier, they solved a campus murder, but now police say they formed two-thirds of an illicit love triangle with a newly-murdered female colleague and they're probably guilty of her murder. A leak of the alleged scandal to the college administration threatens their jobs.
Their desperate attempt to prove themselves innocent of the triangle and the murder plunges them into a tangle of unsavory corporate relationships among college trustees. And it puts their lives in danger from a mysterious criminal organization that seems to have tentacles everywhere.
Can this ill-matched pair's stumbling efforts succeed against the entrenched forces of the police, the college's incompetent administration, and that powerful but unseen criminal organization? If not, they may end up unemployed, in prison, or suffering a fate much worse.
He is a reclusive history professor with musical hallucinations. . . .
She a headstrong professor of religion, a converted Wiccan. Earlier, they solved a campus murder, but now police say they formed two-thirds of an illicit love triangle with a newly-murdered female colleague and they're probably guilty of her murder. A leak of the alleged scandal to the college administration threatens their jobs.
Their desperate attempt to prove themselves innocent of the triangle and the murder plunges them into a tangle of unsavory corporate relationships among college trustees. And it puts their lives in danger from a mysterious criminal organization that seems to have tentacles everywhere.
Can this ill-matched pair's stumbling efforts succeed against the entrenched forces of the police, the college's incompetent administration, and that powerful but unseen criminal organization? If not, they may end up unemployed, in prison, or suffering a fate much worse.
Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/295oYHO
About the author:
Donn Taylor led an Infantry rifle platoon in the Korean War, served with Army aviation in Vietnam, and worked with air reconnaissance in Europe and Asia. Afterwards, he earned a PhD in Renaissance literature and taught literature at two liberal arts colleges. His publications include three suspense novels, one historical novel, and a book of poetry. He lives near Houston, TX, where he writes fiction, poetry, and essays on current topics.
Dynamic Uno here: In the first book of the Preston Barclay Mysteries, Rhapsody in Red, Press and Mara get caught up in a murder scandal at their school and end up having to prove their innocence before they too end up on the list of the murderer.
In this second book of the series, Press and Mara get caught up in unusual circumstances once again at the college where they teach. Another faculty member has been murdered and Press and Mara get sucked into the middle of the investigation--this time for supposedly being involved in a love triangle. Press and Mara must once again prove their innocence while trying to track down a murderer, hopefully keep their jobs, and trying not to get killed in the process.
I've always imagined what the soundtrack of my life would be like at various moments throughout my day, but Preston has very specific musical hallucinations throughout his and makes the reader privy to such information. (I only wish there was a way to listen to the music he hears as I'm reading the book. Hopefully the audio-book will insert the various pieces of music in the background so the readers have an idea of the type of music he's hearing.)
I thoroughly enjoyed this second adventure of Press and Mara--the unwilling crime solving duo at Overton University. I also enjoyed the developing relationship between the two colleagues and am interested in knowing what the response was to the situation at the end of the book. (Guess we'll have to wait and see...)
For those of you who have not read book #1, don't worry--this book could be a stand alone, although the author does a fabulous job of informing his readers about the backstory along the way. If you enjoy reading cozy mysteries with a touch of romance, then this is the book for you!
Let me know what you think and Happy Reading!
Sunday, June 12, 2016
Richard Mabry’s ‘Medical Judgment’ e-Reader Giveaway
Just what the doctor ordered: heart-thumping suspense and intrigue, courtesy of Richard Mabry’s new medical drama, Medical Judgment. Someone is after Dr. Sarah Gordon. They’ve stalked her and set a fire at her home. Trying to recover from the traumatic deaths of her husband and infant daughter is tough enough, but she has no idea what will come next. As the threats on her life continue to escalate, so do the questions: Who is doing this? Why are they after her? And with her only help being unreliable suitors in competition with each other, whom can she really trust?
Join Richard in celebrating the release of Medical Judgment by entering to win an e-reader!
One grand prize winner will receive:
Join Richard in celebrating the release of Medical Judgment by entering to win an e-reader!
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A copy of Medical Judgment
- A Kindle Fire HD 6
Saturday, June 11, 2016
Medical Judgment by Richard L. Mabry, M.D.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the LitFuse Publications book blogger campaign. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
About the book:
Medical Judgment (Abingdon Press, May 2016)
Dr. Sarah Gordon lost her husband and daughter. Now she's about to lose her life.
After losing the two people she loved the most, Sarah Gordon doesn't think life could get worse. But, after a fire in her garage is ruled an arson, she begins to realize someone is after her---and that person wants to see her dead. But first, they want to see her suffer.
Her late husband's best friend, Kyle Andrews, and a recovering alcoholic detective, Bill Larson, are trying to solve the mystery before it's too late, and they're both trying to win her heart, too. Not only does Sarah feel torn between two men, she also feels as though she cannot trust anyone.
With creepy threats that become more and more sinister, Sarah finds herself in constant fear, but even the best home alarm technology won't protect her. Who is doing this, and why are they after her?
Dr. Sarah Gordon lost her husband and daughter. Now she's about to lose her life.
After losing the two people she loved the most, Sarah Gordon doesn't think life could get worse. But, after a fire in her garage is ruled an arson, she begins to realize someone is after her---and that person wants to see her dead. But first, they want to see her suffer.
Her late husband's best friend, Kyle Andrews, and a recovering alcoholic detective, Bill Larson, are trying to solve the mystery before it's too late, and they're both trying to win her heart, too. Not only does Sarah feel torn between two men, she also feels as though she cannot trust anyone.
With creepy threats that become more and more sinister, Sarah finds herself in constant fear, but even the best home alarm technology won't protect her. Who is doing this, and why are they after her?
Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1PjHaAz
About the author:
Dr. Richard Mabry is a retired physician who writes "medical suspense with heart." His novels have won multiple awards: a semifinalist for International Thriller Writers' debut novel; finalists for the Carol Award, Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, and Romantic Times' Reader's Choice Award; and both finalist and winner of the Selah Award. He and his wife live in Frisco, Texas.
Dynamic Uno here: Talk about a page-turner! The action started on the first page and continued to build throughout the story. As I was reading, I found myself biting my nails (along with the main character) as she continued to be tormented by her crazy stalker/harasser. It's bad enough that she lost her husband and child in a bad car accident, but then to have to deal with the craziness of this person attacking her within her own home was almost too much for her to handle.
Maybe this is from my obsession with Nancy Drew when I was younger, but I love trying to figure out who the culprit is in each suspense book I read. A few times I thought I knew who it was behind all of the attacks, but I turned out to be wrong. (Guess I shouldn't quit my day job...yet!)
If you enjoy reading action-packed suspenseful novels with a medical twist, then Richard L. Mabry, M.D. is the author and Medical Judgment is the book for you!
Let me know what you think and Happy Reading!
Friday, June 3, 2016
A Daughter's Dream by Shelley Shepard Gray
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the LitFuse Publications book blogger campaign. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
About the book:
A Daughter's Dream (Avon Inspire, May 2016)
A young teacher and farmer discover they have much in common, especially when it comes to healing old wounds from the past . . . and finding love in one another.
A young teacher and farmer discover they have much in common, especially when it comes to healing old wounds from the past . . . and finding love in one another.
Rebecca Kinsinger has always dreamed of being a teacher. But when she's given the opportunity she's been waiting for at Charm Amish School, she's dismayed to discover that teaching is hard work---work she's afraid she's not very good at.
That is, until Lilly Yoder joins the class. A thirteen-year old who's just lost her parents, Lilly is in need of someone like Rebecca. For the first time since starting her new job, Rebecca feels a sense of purpose. But when she meets Lilly's uncle, Jacob, his good looks and sweet, easy-going temperament are hard to ignore. How can she even entertain romantic thoughts of Jacob when his niece is her student?
Suddenly becoming Lily's sole caregiver, Jacob Yoder never thought he'd be a single parent---or a farmer. Having been living in Florida as a carpenter, Jacob feels more at home wielding a hammer than a backhoe. The only bright spot in his life is Rebecca Kinsinger. As Lily and Rebecca develop a bond, Jacob's fondness for the pretty teacher grows, too.
But when a fateful accident brings them together, Rebecca and Jacob must choose between duty and desire. Will they follow the path before them? Or set out to find true happiness . . . and true love?
Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/20vVAye
About the author:
Shelley Shepard Gray is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time HOLT Medallion winner. She lives in southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town's bike trail.
Dynamic Uno here: I'm enjoying learning more about the Kinsinger siblings and the small Amish town of Charm, Ohio.
Rebecca so wanted to be a teacher, but when she actually had to cover for her friend she realized that teaching was not really her passion. (I can completely relate, only it took me about 17 years to actually leave the profession.)
When Rebecca and Jacob meet, I could tell that they were a match made in heaven. They were both honest with themselves and each other and decided to take a chance on a relationship, starting with a courtship. (Their brave honesty encourages me to be the same way within my relationships with others.)
I also thought it was cute that Lilly's relationship with Peter somewhat mimicked Rebecca's relationship with Jacob--especially since Lilly and Jacob were having to start their lives over in Charm and both met helpmates in Rebecca and Peter.
Overall, book #2 was a quick and cute read. I wish there had been more about the courtship between Rebecca and Jacob, but honestly, the story line between them didn't really need it. (I just wanted to live vicariously through them.)
If you're looking for a cute romance with a lot of heart, then this is the book for you!
Let me know what you think and Happy Reading!
Rebecca so wanted to be a teacher, but when she actually had to cover for her friend she realized that teaching was not really her passion. (I can completely relate, only it took me about 17 years to actually leave the profession.)
When Rebecca and Jacob meet, I could tell that they were a match made in heaven. They were both honest with themselves and each other and decided to take a chance on a relationship, starting with a courtship. (Their brave honesty encourages me to be the same way within my relationships with others.)
I also thought it was cute that Lilly's relationship with Peter somewhat mimicked Rebecca's relationship with Jacob--especially since Lilly and Jacob were having to start their lives over in Charm and both met helpmates in Rebecca and Peter.
Overall, book #2 was a quick and cute read. I wish there had been more about the courtship between Rebecca and Jacob, but honestly, the story line between them didn't really need it. (I just wanted to live vicariously through them.)
If you're looking for a cute romance with a lot of heart, then this is the book for you!
Let me know what you think and Happy Reading!
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| Enter here: https://promosimple.com/ps/9a9 |
Thursday, June 2, 2016
YouTube Thursday
Lately, there have been so many things I've been worrying about--finances, relationships, the future... but I heard this song on the radio the other day and the words made a huge impact on my thinking.
It's so true. God has big shoulders and He can handle every situation that pops up in my life. I've just got to trust Him. (Yet another thing we've been working on.)
My worrying just makes me focus on what's wrong and not what's right about a situation. It takes away my hope and my freedom to actually live.
So if you find yourself worrying about all of the crazy events in your life. STOP. Give your worry over to God and let Him take it. He's got this. Let Him do His thing because nothing is impossible with God on your side!
I hope you enjoy this video and song! Let me know what you think in the comments section.
It's so true. God has big shoulders and He can handle every situation that pops up in my life. I've just got to trust Him. (Yet another thing we've been working on.)
My worrying just makes me focus on what's wrong and not what's right about a situation. It takes away my hope and my freedom to actually live.
So if you find yourself worrying about all of the crazy events in your life. STOP. Give your worry over to God and let Him take it. He's got this. Let Him do His thing because nothing is impossible with God on your side!
I hope you enjoy this video and song! Let me know what you think in the comments section.
Monday, May 30, 2016
Becky Wade’s ‘Her One and Only’ Porter Prize Pack and $100 Cash Card Giveaway
Meet Dru Porter, former Marine, expert markswoman, and black belt—who also happens to be assigned as a bodyguard to star NFL tight end Gray Fowler. Don't miss the final Porter family novel by Becky Wade, Her One and Only. Gray starts receiving death threats from a stalker, and Dru is determined to find his stalker. Every secret that leads Dru closer to the stalker also draws her closer to Gray. As the danger escalates, they’ll survive only if they can learn to trust their lives—and their hearts—to one another.
Join Becky in celebrating the release of Her One and Only by entering to win her Porter prize pack and $100 cash card giveaway!
One grand prize winner will receive:
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry! The giveaway ends on May 31st. The winner will be announced June 1st on the Litfuse blog.
Join Becky in celebrating the release of Her One and Only by entering to win her Porter prize pack and $100 cash card giveaway!
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A copy of Her One and Only
- A $100 cash card
- Follow Your Heart tote bag
- 24 oz Tervis Wonder Woman Tumbler
- The Blind Side DVD
- Necklace with star charm
- Porter Family navy jersey
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry! The giveaway ends on May 31st. The winner will be announced June 1st on the Litfuse blog.
Sunday, May 29, 2016
Memorial Day Thoughts
After spending today with a Marine Veteran, I started to think about all of the men and women who have sacrificed themselves for us to live in this great nation. Thankfully, my Marine friend did not lose his life, but the fact that he was willing to die for me (and you) humbles me to the point of being overwhelmed. The fact that he loved me (even though we had never met until recently) THAT much, someone he didn't even know--to be willing to die for me, completely takes my breath away. It also reminds me of the love that Christ has for us. He laid down His life for us so that we could live eternally and with abundance every day.
I hope you have a wonderful Memorial Day--remembering all of those who have gone before us and the sacrifices they made so that we can live the lives we have today. I also hope you will think about Christ's love and sacrifice for you. That you are humbled to realize that He (and they) loved us to give everything they had.
I hope you have a wonderful Memorial Day--remembering all of those who have gone before us and the sacrifices they made so that we can live the lives we have today. I also hope you will think about Christ's love and sacrifice for you. That you are humbled to realize that He (and they) loved us to give everything they had.
Saturday, May 28, 2016
Her One and Only by Becky Wade (Porter Family #4)
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the LitFuse Publications book blogger campaign. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Her One and Only (Bethany House, May 2016)
After ten years in the NFL, super star Gray Fowler is accustomed to obsessive fans.
But when Gray starts receiving death threats from a stalker, his team hires an executive protection agency to guard him until the culprit is caught. Dealing with bodyguards 24/7 is a headache, especially when one of them is a young, beautiful woman. How can a female half his size possibly protect him better than he can protect himself?
Dru Porter is a former Marine, an expert markswoman, and a black belt–none of which saved her from disaster on her last assignment. In order to rebuild her tarnished reputation, she’s determined to find Gray’s stalker and, since relationships between agents and clients are forbidden, avoid a romantic attachment between herself and the rugged football player with the mysterious past.
Yet every secret that leads Dru closer to the stalker also draws her closer to Gray. As the danger escalates, they’ll survive only if they can learn to trust their lives—and their hearts—to one another.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Becky Wade is a native of California who attended Baylor University, met and married a Texan, and now lives in Dallas. A favorite among readers of Christian contemporary romance, Becky has won a Carol Award, an Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, and an INSPY Award.
Dynamic Uno here: This is the first book of the Porter family series by Becky Wade that I've read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! (In fact, there were a couple of the other characters/members of the Porter family that I enjoyed meeting and now I'm going to go back and read their stories.)
The first thing that intrigued me was that Dru Porter was a former Marine, expert markswoman, a black belt, and an executive protection agent (body guard). Plus, she's gorgeous. (Go figure! Although I must admit, I kind of had a crush on her character because I would love to have half the talents she has in those areas. Alas, I just have the brains.)
Gray Fowler seemed like the typical stereotypical NFL football player that was only about himself and went through women like water until you learn a little more about his backstory. Then, his actions suddenly make a whole lot of sense.
Another thing that intrigued me about the story were the interactions between Dru and Gray while she was on protection duty. Gray still flirted with her even while she was working, but she was still able to be professional despite holding her own in the conversation. Their abrupt honesty with one another helped to kindle their bond and eventually help them realize that their feelings for each other had grown right along with their friendship.
One day, I hope that I too am able to be just as honest with my prospective suitor, as well as kick up the same type of fireworks.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my first glimpse into the Porter family series, despite this being the fourth and final book, and I can't wait to go back and read the other books in the series to learn about the other Porter siblings, as well as read more books by the author-Becky Wade.
Thursday, May 26, 2016
YouTube Thursday
Things have been hectic as usual with working six days a week to try and pay those pesky bills. I'm praying for a smaller apartment upstairs efficiency to open up to help alleviate some of the cash flow bleeding from my account. Until then, I just have to trust that God's got a plan and that He's navigating these rough waters for me. It's during these rough times that God like to remind me of His love for me. Every time I pray about my financial situation (which is pretty much non-stop--especially while driving) God's been playing this song. Every. Time.
It's a wonderful reminder that God's love is Fierce and that He will do everything for my good. I hope you enjoy this song and are reminded of God's Fierce love for you!
Fierce by Jesus Culture
It's a wonderful reminder that God's love is Fierce and that He will do everything for my good. I hope you enjoy this song and are reminded of God's Fierce love for you!
Fierce by Jesus Culture
Friday, May 6, 2016
Mars...with Venus Rising by Hope Toler Dougherty
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the LitFuse Publications book blogger campaign. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
About the Book:
Mars . . . with Venus Rising (Pelican Book Group, August 2015)
A meddling horse, paper bag floors and a flying saucer on the town square. The little town of Mars has it all---including a brand new resident who might spell heartache for one of its own.
Twenty-something Penn Davenport yearns for an exciting life in the big city and wants to shed the label of orphan that she's worn for years. To achieve that dream, she must pass the CPA exam then move away from the two aunts who reared her after her parents died in a plane crash.
When John Townsend---full of life and the joy of living---moves to town, he rattles Penn's view of herself, her life, and her dreams . . . which isn't such a bad thing until she falls for him and discovers he's a pilot.
A meddling horse, paper bag floors and a flying saucer on the town square. The little town of Mars has it all---including a brand new resident who might spell heartache for one of its own.
Twenty-something Penn Davenport yearns for an exciting life in the big city and wants to shed the label of orphan that she's worn for years. To achieve that dream, she must pass the CPA exam then move away from the two aunts who reared her after her parents died in a plane crash.
When John Townsend---full of life and the joy of living---moves to town, he rattles Penn's view of herself, her life, and her dreams . . . which isn't such a bad thing until she falls for him and discovers he's a pilot.
Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1VE0NoV
About the Author:
Hope Toler Dougherty holds a Master's degree in English and taught at East Carolina University as well as York Technical College. A member of ACFW, RWA and SinC, she writes for Almost an Author. Before writing novels, she published non-fiction articles on topics ranging from gardening with children to writing apprehension. She cheers for the Pittsburgh Steelers, ACC basketball, and Army West Point Football. Hope and her husband, Kevin, live in North Carolina and chat with their two daughters and twin sons through ooVoo.
Dynamic Uno here:
| I'm not even sure giddy begins to describe how I feel about this book. The relationship between Penn and her aunts reminds me of my own relationship with my aunt-although neither of us bake. They are able to talk to each other about anything and are always there for one another when life gets too ugly and overwhelming. I enjoyed meeting the character of John. We learned a little bit about his past, but what struck me the most was how thoughtful and caring he was with everyone he came in contact with during the story. Kind, compassionate, and very thoughtful was how he appeared to me, which made me wonder a bit longingly, where my own "John" might be in the world. (After all, this character was a pilot, why couldn't mine be one too? Maybe he just hasn't landed in Tampa yet...) Longing aside, I truly enjoyed how we were able to watch the characters grow in their faith-especially during times of need. It made me realize that I'm not the only one who has struggles and that if I just relied on God more and trusted Him more, that I would probably be more bold and struggle less. I hope that this book evolves into a series, because I'd like to read more about the lovingly meddlesome aunts, Abbey, David, and even some of the other characters. After all, there were some potential love-connections throughout the story. (Hint...hint...) If you enjoy a great story with a light touch of romance, then this is the story for you! |
Let me know what you think and Happy Reading!
Thursday, May 5, 2016
Hope Toler Dougherty’s ‘Mars . . . with Venus Rising’ Kindle Prize Pack Giveaway
Travel to the small town of Mars, where you'll find a meddling horse, paper bag floors, and a flying saucer on the town square—in Hope Toler Dougherty's book, Mars . . . with Venus Rising. Penn Davenport dreams of passing the CPA exam and moving away from the two aunts who reared her after her parents died in a plane crash. When John Townsend—full of life and the joy of living—moves to town, he rattles Penn's view of herself, her life, and her dreams . . . which isn’t such a bad thing until she falls for him and discovers he’s a pilot.
Celebrate Hope's Mars . . . with Venus Rising blog tour with a Kindle Fire Prize Pack giveaway!
One grand prize winner will receive:
Celebrate Hope's Mars . . . with Venus Rising blog tour with a Kindle Fire Prize Pack giveaway!
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A copy of Mars . . . with Venus Rising
- A $25 Amazon gift card
- A Kindle Fire
Saturday, April 23, 2016
Join Becky Wade for a Facebook Party May 5!
A female bodyguard plus her star NFL client plus danger equals a great recipe for romance! Her One and Only, book four in Becky Wade's Porter Family novels, releases May 3. To celebrate, Becky is hosting an author chat party on her Facebook page on May 5 at 5 PM PDT/8 PM EDT. Join Becky for an evening of book chat with other bookworms and prizes.
Plus a portion of all pre-sales and sales the release week of Her One and Only will be donated to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. For more details on how to purchase a copy, click here.
About the Book
After ten years in the NFL, super star Gray Fowler is accustomed to obsessive fans. But when Gray starts receiving death threats from a stalker, his team hires an executive protection agency to guard him until the culprit is caught. Dealing with bodyguards 24/7 is a headache, especially when one of them is a young, beautiful woman. How can a female half his size possibly protect him better than he can protect himself?Dru Porter is a former Marine, an expert markswoman, and a black belt–none of which saved her from disaster on her last assignment. In order to rebuild her tarnished reputation, she’s determined to find Gray’s stalker and, since relationships between agents and clients are forbidden, avoid a romantic attachment between herself and the rugged football player with the mysterious past.
Yet every secret that leads Dru closer to the stalker also draws her closer to Gray. As the danger escalates, they’ll survive only if they can learn to trust their lives — and their hearts — to one another.
Learn more and purchase a copy.
Thursday, April 14, 2016
You Tube Thursday
As much as I would like to date and possibly marry again, I'm beginning to think this may be my new theme song--especially after seeing what slim pickings are out there:
Meghan Trainor's NO:
Meghan Trainor's NO:
Friday, April 8, 2016
Back in the Saddle by Ruth Logan Herne
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the LitFuse Publications book blogger campaign. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
About the Book:
Back in the Saddle (Multnomah, March 2016)
The prodigal is coming home.
It’s been a long time since Colt Stafford shrugged off his cowboy legacy for shiny Manhattan loafers and a promising career on Wall Street. But when stock market manipulations leave him financially strapped, the oldest son of legendary rancher Sam Stafford decides to return to the sprawling Double S ranch in Gray’s Glen, Washington. He’s broke, but not broken, and it’s time to check in with his ailing father, and get his legs back under him by climbing into the saddle again.
He doesn’t expect to come home to a stranger pointing a loaded gun at his chest— a tough yet beautiful woman that Sam hired as the house manager. Colt senses there’s more to Angelina Morales than meets the eye and he’s determined to find out what she’s hiding…and why.
Colt’s return brings new challenges. Younger brother Nick has been Sam’s right-hand man at the ranch for years and isn’t thrilled at having Colt insert himself into Double S affairs. And the ranch’s contentious relationship with the citizens of Gray’s Glen asks all the Stafford men to examine their hearts about what it truly means to be a neighbor. And as Wall Street recovers, will Colt succumb to the call of the financial district’s wealth and power—or finally the courage to stay in the saddle for good?
About the Author:
Ruth Logan Herne has more than half a million books in print, including fifteen Love Inspired contemporary novels. Back in the Saddle is the first book in her new western romance series. Ruth is a founding member of Seekerville, a popular writing collective blog. A country girl who loves the big city, Ruth and her husband live on a farm in upstate New York.
Dynamic Uno here:
| It's no surprise that I enjoy stories with cowboys and a touch of romance, so it should also be no surprise that I enjoyed reading this first book (Back in the Saddle) in the Double S Ranch series by Ruth Logan Herne. The characters were down-to-earth, realistic people who could be your next door neighbors (if you lived in Gray's Glen, Washington). Despite the fact that the patriarch, Sam, had a bad reputation throughout the town due to prior life decisions, I was glad when he stepped up to the plate and tried to show people, especially his sons, how he had changed since accepting God into his life. I enjoyed reading the back stories on some of the characters because it made me realize that all families have tragedy, messiness, and heartbreak, and that we are never alone in these situations. Angelina's back story about the death of her father, and Noah's father choosing to walk away from them broke my heart. But, the way Angelina carried herself and worked even harder for her family, showed me that even in the roughest times, we can still be a beacon of light and hope. Colt's story of the prodigal returning home from his own worldly mess showed me that despite how badly I may mess things up, I can still be accepted by my family--even if it's somewhat grudgingly, like his brother's jealousy. Overall, I liked how life was messy for the characters, and not smelling like roses all the time, because I think, as readers, we are able to relate more to those situations because we have those sticky situations in our own lives. Nevertheless, this story ended on a high and happy note (which is my favorite kind of ending) and I can't wait to see what happens with the other brothers and some of the other characters in this series. If you enjoy light-hearted romance with some (seriously handsome--have you seen the cover??) cowboys in the mix, then this story and series is for you! Let me know what you think and happy reading! |
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