Friday, July 30, 2021

First Line Friday #11-Woman in Shadow

Happy Friday! I hope you are having a great day and looking forward to a relaxing weekend! I am excited to be in VA this weekend with some longtime friends ๐Ÿ˜€
Welcome back to First Line Friday, hosted by Hoarding Books!! I will also be linking up with Gilion on Rose City Reader for Book Beginnings. It’s time to grab the book nearest to you and leave a comment with the first line. This week I am sharing from Woman in Shadow by Carrie Stuart Parks

Wednesday, July 28, 2021

An Unexpected Amish Courtship

Title: An Unexpected Amish Courtship

Series: Surprised by Love #2

Author: Rachel J. Good

Publisher: Zebra Books

Genre: Amish, Christian Fiction, Romance

My review:

While this is the second book in the series it can easily be read as a stand-alone. There are a few characters who make appearances from the first book, but there is not so much background that you are lost. 

Love and a Little White Lie

 Title: Love and a Little White Lie

Series: State of Grace #1

Author: Tammy L. Gray

Publisher: Bethany House

Genre: Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Christian fiction

Source: Library Book

My review:

This is the first book that I have read by this author but it will not be my last. I am eagerly waiting to get my hands on the second book in the series, Love and the Silver Lining, expected to release on August 3rd. I will have to see if my library has it, if not I will request they purchase it.

Can't Wait Wednesday

 Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted at Wishful Endings, to spotlight and discuss the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Typically they are books that have not been released yet. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine. This is my fourth week participating in Can't Wait Wednesday and I am enjoying reading about all the books you all can't wait to read! This week I am showcasing another romance. I love books by Amy Clipston...she writes Amish fiction and Christian fiction. I am always in awe of anyone who can write a book, but even more so when authors can write across multiple genres and do it equally well.

Tuesday, July 27, 2021

The Escape

 Title: The Escape (Audiobook)

Series: US Marshal's #1

Author: Lisa Harris

Publisher: Revell

Genre: Suspense, Christian Fiction, Romance,

Source: Bought

TTT-Stranded on a desert island

 Welcome to another Top Ten Tuesday! I hope you are off to a great start to your week. This week’s topic features books that I would want with me if I were stranded on a desert island. Since I do not typically read a book over and over again, I will pick some of the books that have been on my to-be-read list for quite a while. Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by That Artsy Reader Girl and you can head over there to see what books others would want if they were stranded on an island.

My Bible-if I am going to be stranded anywhere I would need my Bible for the hope and encouragement it would give me!

Get Out of Your Head by Jennie Allen-I would also need help with my thought life.

Friday, July 23, 2021

Billy Makes Cookies

https://images-cdn.reedsy.com/discovery/book/5792/cover/large_1bd01290dfea184676d03b49f5dbcb0ab32d0140.jpg

Title: Billy Makes Cookies

Author: Pria Dee

Illustrator: Tina Perko

Publisher: Boomi llc.

Genre: Children's Fiction

My review:

You can tell from the cover that when Billy Makes Cookies, all will not be smooth sailing.  This children's picture book is composed by Pria Dee. Pria Dee is an Indian American author, who currently resides in Michigan. Pria has written several children’s books based on her experiences and observations. She loves animals and children and writes to combine both her passions.

First Line Friday #10-Love and a Little White Lie

Happy Friday! I hope you are having a great day and looking forward to a relaxing weekend!
Welcome back to First Line Friday, hosted by Hoarding Books!! I will also be linking up with Gilion on Rose City Reader for Friday Beginnings. It’s time to grab the book nearest to you and leave a comment with the first line. This week I am sharing from Love and a Little White Lie by Tammy L. Gray.

Thursday, July 22, 2021

If It Rains

 Title: If It Rains

Author: Jennifer L. Wright

Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers

Genre: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

Source: Net Galley

My Review:

If It Rains alternates between Kathryn and Melissa's point of view. These two sisters live very different lives, yet they both suffer from heartache and difficult situations.

Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Left at the Altar

 Title: Left at the Altar

Series: A Match Made in Texas #1

Author: Margaret Brownley

Narrated by: Kate Forbes

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca

Genre: Contemporary Fiction

My review:

This is my first book by this author and I have several my on my TBR list. Now that I have read one I look forward to reading others!

Can't Wait Wednesday-This Time Around

 Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted at Wishful Endings, to spotlight and discuss the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Typically they are books that have not been released yet. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine. This is my third week participating in Can't Wait Wednesday and I am enjoying reading about all the books you all can't wait to read! This week I picked a lighter read because I NEED to read a lighter read once I finish up what I am reading. I enjoy a good romance and This Time Around features three authors that I love reading books by: Denise Hunter, Melissa Ferguson, and Kathleen Fuller.

Tuesday, July 20, 2021

Top Ten Tuesday-Books I wish I could have read in one sitting

Welcome to another Top Ten Tuesday! While I love to read it is rare to have uninterrupted time to just sit and read. I imagine it is the same with you. So, this week’s topic features books that I would read in one sitting (or would if I had the time!) I imagine this will be an easy list to make, especially since there were several books recently that I have not wanted to put down to do anything. Those are the types of books that I will feature this week. The hard part will be narrowing it down to just 10!! You know, typical book nerd problems ๐Ÿ˜‚ Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by That Artsy Reader Girl

 A Lady in Attendance by Rachel Fordham 

Monday, July 19, 2021

Come Back to Me

Title: Come Back to Me

Series: Water of Time #1

Author: Jody Hedlund

Publisher: Revell

Genre: Science Fiction, time travel, romance, young adult, dual-timeline

My review:

This is a very different read for me as I NEVER read Science Fiction. However, I heard a TON of great things about it so I decided to check it out of the library to see what all the fuss is about and I am so glad I did. I did not expect to like it, nor did I anticipate having a hard time putting it down! This is also the first book I have read by Jody Hedlund, although I hear her historical romances are great too. 

Sunday, July 18, 2021

Rose Among Thornes

 Title: Rose Among Thornes

Author: Terrie Todd

Publisher: Heritage Beacon

Genre: Historical Fiction, World War II, Christian Fiction,

My review:

Terrie Todd weaves a story of racism, war, love, forgiveness, heartache, friendship, hope, and sacrifice. The story begins in 1941 with Rose and her friend Frieda as typical teenagers headed to the movies. The book spans five years, with an update from Tim in an epilogue.

Saturday, July 17, 2021

The Duke Meets His Match

 

Original published 11/5/20 on my sister site.

I am not a huge Historical fiction fan, but I am finding more and more that are so well-written I am starting to enjoy the genre. Today I finished reading The Duke Meets His Match, by Karen Tuft.

Friday, July 16, 2021

First Line Friday #9-Come Back to Me

 Happy Friday! I hope you are having a great day and looking forward to a relaxing weekend!
Welcome back to First Line Friday, hosted by Hoarding Books!! I will also be linking up with Gilion on Rose City Reader for Friday Beginnings. It’s time to grab the book nearest to you and leave a comment with the first line. This week I am sharing from Come Back to Me by Jody Hedlund. This is a very different read for me as I NEVER read Science Fiction. However, I heard a TON of great things about it so I decided to check it out of the library to see what all the fuss is about ๐Ÿ˜†

Thursday, July 15, 2021

The Trouble with Jenny

 Title: The Trouble with Jenny

Series: Wind River Chronicles  #1

Author: Kathy Geary Anderson

Publisher: Purple Autumn Press

Genre: Historical Fiction

My Review:

"Clad in a sensible gray suit with a frilled white shirtwaist, she reminded Jenny of a pigeon, except for her hat." I will stop there as I do not want to spoil the scene, but this is just a small sampling of the colorful and descriptive language that was used throughout the book. There were many moments that made me laugh out loud.

Wednesday, July 14, 2021

Can't Wait Wednesday-Left at the Altar

 Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted at Wishful Endings, to spotlight and discuss the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Typically they are books that have not been released yet. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This is my second week participating in Can't Wait Wednesday. Since I have about a million books that I am waiting to read, this week I am choosing one that has been on my TBR list for almost a year! It's Left at the Altar by Margaret Brownley.

I don't know what it is, but there is something about movies and books where someone is left at the altar that seems funny to me. I guess in a way I picture Rachel from Friends going into Central Perk in her wedding dress! 

Tuesday, July 13, 2021

Top Ten Tuesday -Book Titles That are Questions

 Welcome to another Top Ten Tuesday! This week’s topic features book titles that ask questions or have question marks in them. Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by That Artsy Reader Girl. I knew when I saw the prompt that it was going to be hard and take some serious thought. Most of the books that I came across from my own reading that asked questions were either nonfiction or children's books. I tried to dig a little deeper to find some fiction as well.

What if Jesus was Serious about Prayer? By Skye Jethani

This is one I am currently reading, love the images!

What if Jesus Was Serious ... About Prayer?: A Visual Guide to the Spiritual Practice Most of Us Get Wrong

Monday, July 12, 2021

It's Monday! What are you reading?

 It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? is a place to meet up and share what you have been, and are about to be reading over the week. It’s a great post to organize yourself. It’s an opportunity to visit and comment and er… add to your groaning TBR pile! So welcome in everyone. This meme started on J Kaye’s blog and then was hosted by Sheila from Book Journey. Sheila then passed it on to Kathryn here at The Book Date.

I am currently reading The Trouble with Jenny: Wind Chronicles book 1 by Kathy Geary Anderson.

180 Bible Verses for Conquering Anxiety

 Title:180 Bible Verses for Conquering Anxiety

Author: Carey Scott

Publisher: Barbour Publishing

Genre: Bible Study, Deovtional

Source: Net Galley

My Review:

This was my first time reading a book by Carey Scott, but I look forward to reading more of her works!

This book can be read very quickly or slowly, depending on how the reader wants to take it. The book is not broken into days or chapters. It is simply a heading, followed by a Bible verse, and the section ends with a quick devotional related to the section.

Sunday, July 11, 2021

Love's Dwelling

 Title: Love's Dwelling

Series: Amish Blessings #1

Author: Kelly Irvin

Publisher: Zondervan

Genre: Amish, Christian Fiction

Source: Net Galley

My Review:

 I enjoyed this story. Cassie does not know what she is getting herself into when she decides to move in with the Keim's and help with their grandchildren. Cassie is a joy and a delight. She radiates energy and possesses a genuine love of her life. She is enthusiastic in all that she does and has many admirable qualities. 

Saturday, July 10, 2021

Growing Slow

 Title: Growing Slow: Lessons on Un-hurrying Your Heart From an Accidental Farm Girl

Author: Jennifer Dukes Lee

Publisher: Zondervan

Genre: Christian Nonfiction, Christian Living

My Review:

I am not a huge fan of jumping on a bandwagon. But, I kept seeing this book, Growing Slow, floating around Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. I found myself drawn to it, so I bought it. I am so thankful that I did. I have been reading it for the last few weeks as part of my devotional time and it has valuable and timely messages.

A Christmas Miracle at Ground Zero

 Title: A Christmas Miracle at Ground Zero

Author: Judith M. Ackerman

Publisher: The Storyteller Books

Genre: Children's Fiction

My Review

 A Christmas Miracle at Ground Zero is intended to be a story of hope. It is written by Judith Ackerman. Judith was born in Atlantic City, N.J. She is an award-winning designer and artist. When she became ill with Lupus, she discovered her love of inventing children's stories. She has two sons and seven grandchildren. She lives in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. 

Friday, July 9, 2021

The One You're With

 Title: The One You're With

Author: Lauren K. Denton

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Genre: Contemporary Fiction, dual-timeline

Source: Net Galley

My Review:

Lauren Denton is an author that when I see her name I try to get her books. She is a distinguised writer, writing clean fiction novels. The One You're With is also well written, with great character development. 

First Line Friday #8- Love's Dwelling

 Happy Friday! I hope you are having a great day and looking forward to a relaxing weekend!

Welcome to First Line Friday, hosted by Hoarding Books!! It’s time to grab the book nearest to you and leave a comment with the first line. This week I am sharing from Love's Dwelling by Kelly Irvin.

Wednesday, July 7, 2021

Can't Wait Wednesday-Rose Among Thornes

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted at Wishful Endings, to spotlight and discuss the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Typically they are books that have not been released yet. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This is my first week participating in Can't Wait Wednesday. Since I have about a million books that I am waiting on to read, I will choose one that is coming out soon...I am featuring Terrie Todd's upcoming release. I read and loved her book The Silver Suitcase!

Tuesday, July 6, 2021

Top Ten Tuesday-Reasons Why I Love Reading

 Welcome back to Top Ten Tuesday! Today's topic is "Why I Love Reading." While I thought I was going to be creative and add books with this post, I simply do not have time today! My dog got neutered today and is very needy/clingy.

Monday, July 5, 2021

The Scarlet Pen

The Scarlet Pen (True Colors)Title: The Scarlet Pen

Series: True Colors (each stand alone)

Author: Jennifer Uhlarik

Publisher: Barbour Publishing

Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance, True Crime

My Review:

Not only did this book capture my attention from the first scene, but I also disliked Stephen Dee Richardson from that moment on! It made me wonder what Emma saw in him. Emma is sweet, caring, adores her siblings, and seems to be more in love with the idea of being in love, than actually in love with Stephen. She is also headstrong and impulsive, which gets her into trouble.

Saturday, July 3, 2021

No-Add July

I love everything about books. The new book smell. The feel of the book in your hand. The new adventure each time you open a new book. The ability to store tons of books on the Kindle. The over-flowing bookshelves. Finding books at yard sales, used bookstores, pretty much anywhere, LOL. Telling people what you are reading. Writing reviews. Watching for new releases. Getting ARC's. Being asked to review books. Following favorite authors. Being organized on Goodreads. It all just brings me joy!

Friday, July 2, 2021

First Line Friday #7- The Scarlet Pen

Happy Friday! And Happy Fourth of July weekend.๐ŸŽ†๐ŸŽ‡๐Ÿงจ This week I am blessed to be posting from my sister's house in TN๐Ÿ˜€ What are you doing this weekend?

Welcome to First Line Friday, hosted by Hoarding Books!! It’s time to grab the book nearest to you and leave a comment with the first line. This week I am sharing from The Scarlet Pen by Jennifer Uhlarik. The Scarlet Pen is book #12 in the True Colors series.