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Powell's Staff:
Five Book Friday: In Memoriam
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Every year, the booksellers at Powell’s submit their Top Fives: their five favorite books that were released in 2023. It’s a list that, when put together, shows just how varied and interesting the book tastes of Powell’s booksellers are. I highly recommend digging into the recommendations — we would never lead you astray — but today...
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Brontez Purnell:
Powell’s Q&A: Brontez Purnell, author of ‘Ten Bridges I’ve Burnt’
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Rachael P.:
Starter Pack: Where to Begin with Ursula K. Le Guin
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Customer Comments
timamurrell has commented on (119) products
Falling for You
by
Becky Wade
timamurrell
, March 23, 2018
Willow is taking a short break from her modeling career to run her parent's bed and breakfast until the new manager can start work. She's burned out and she's hoping that the sabbatical will give her a fresh start. She doesn't expect to run into a former boy-friend, Corbin who not only broke her heart, but reminds her of all of her past mistakes. She also doesn't expect to be forced to work with him while trying to solve a mystery from decades ago. I loved every aspect of this book. The characters were warm and inviting. The connection that the sisters have is special and heartwarming. The author did an excellent job of portraying the characters as flawed, but likable and inspiring. Their relationship with God was prominent and yet didn't come across as preachy and pushy. Several of the secondary characters were favorites as well. And the author did a great job of setting the scene for the next sister's story. This author never fails to write a story that has heart, forgiveness, family, and sweet romance. This story also has a side story with some suspense and drama that I didn't see coming, but really enjoy. Overall, another amazing book and I can't wait to read her next one. I received a copy of this book. All thoughts expressed are my own.
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All This Time
by
Melissa Tagg
timamurrell
, September 24, 2017
Bear is doing what he thinks is his calling, working where God wants him to work. But when his past comes into the present and begins creating problems on the mission field, he's sent home to deal with the problems that have haunted him for years. Now he's back in Maple Valley with two children in tow and plenty of friends who want to help. One of those friends, Raegan, has given up on being more than friends. She'll settle for helping Bear with his current troubles. But if there was a glimmer of hope in the romance department, she isn't opposed to it. What can I say? Melissa Tagg knows how to write a good story. I've loved all of her books, but she just keeps getting better and better. Bear is such a broken, but lovable character. These characters played a part in the previous three books and it was wonderful for them to finally have their own story. While this is the fourth book and I highly recommend reading the first books, I think this book could stand on its own. It was sad to know that this was the ending of the series. The author really captured the essence of small town living and the meaning of family. The reader becomes a part of the story and family members become theirs. This is a Christian fiction with emphasis on faith and salvation. The romance is clean, the characters are authentic, and the plot is well written. I would highly recommend this book or any other book by this author. I received a copy of this book. All thoughts expressed are my own.
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Chasing Secrets
by
Lynette Eason
timamurrell
, August 20, 2017
Haley has vague memories of her past, but her mother discounted her nightmares as just dreams and Haley has moved on from her past. Now her past is threatening to kill her and Haley is struggling to stay one step head of the killer and keep those she loves safe. Steven moved home to be near his deathly ill father. When he meets Haley he feels an instant connection that has nothing to do with her beauty or position as a body guard. He joins the race to find out her secrets in time to save her. I've enjoyed all of Ms. Eason's books, but I think this one was my favorite. The book begins with a dramatic start and doesn't let up the entire book. It brings all of the other characters from previous books into the plot, but could definitely be read as a stand alone. I would recommend reading the others first though. You won't be disappointed. The author has a way with words that bring out the suspense and drama of the moment. She's also good at the romance part. The chemistry was great with the two characters and fit well with the story. Loved this book and can't wait to get her next one. I received a copy of this book from Revell Reads. All thoughts expressed are my own.
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A Love So True
by
Melissa Jagears
timamurrell
, June 27, 2017
Evelyn loves working at the orphanage and is grateful to her parents form making it happen. But she feels a huge pull towards the women who work in the red light district and have no way out. She hopes to provide a home and occupational training so they have a way out of that life. She has a donor agree to help her, but she must get the support of two other business men before she can have his help. When she bursts into the office of David Kingsman she hopes that he will help her by becoming a supporter. But David is only there to sell the business and doesn't see a reason to go against his father's wishes just to leave the project in a month or so. This was a fun book. The characters from the previous book were brought back, but the book was written in such a way that I think it would work as a stand-alone. The author uses the plot and characters to bring out some moral issues that sadly, still trouble us today. She touches on several things, but the one that stood out the most to me was the treatment of others and how we aren't better or worse that anyone else in God's eyes. While there is a lot of spiritual emphasis, I didn't feel preached at while reading. The two main characters mixed well together and their relationship was sweet. There were a few surprises that I didn't see coming and those were fun. Overall, this was a good story that spoke to me several times, while at the same time being a very enjoyable read. I received a copy of this book. All thoughts expressed are my own.
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Trusting Grace
by
Maggie Brendan
timamurrell
, June 19, 2017
Grace has always longed for children. But as a young widow, who is now managing her farm and taking care of her sick father, she knows it isn't likely to happen. Robert arrived in town with three bedraggled and dirty children. All of them, including Robert, are tired and resentful of the circumstances that forced them together. Robert takes a job as Grace's ranch hand, but doesn't let her know that he comes with three children. Both Grace and Robert must learn to trust again before they can be fully happy with the life God had blessed them with. I loved this book. It checked all of the boxes for me. Sweet romance, likable characters, beautiful setting, just a small amount of drama, clean, faith filled plot, and some adorable children thrown in for extra fun. The author wove humor and provoking thoughts into what at first seemed a light story. I couldn't put the book down and am now eagerly waiting the next book. I received a copy of this book from Revell Reads. All thoughts expressed are my own.
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Threads of Suspicion
by
Dee Henderson
timamurrell
, June 19, 2017
Evie is now part of the governor's Missing Persons Task Force due to her experience as an investigator. The team takes all of the missing person cases and divides up. Evie is partnerered with David Marshall. The two have separate cases, but soon find their cases intertwining in ways they never imagined. Evie somehow manages to juggle her boyfriend, new partner, current and new jobs, but is having a hard time making a decision that will impact her for the rest of her life. She knows that only her heavenly Father will be able to help her with this one. I love this author's writing style. Ever had a bad day and the only thing you wanted to do was come home and get comfortable? This author is that comfort "food" or favorite shirt. I love diving into her books and not coming up for a breath. While her style of writing stays the same, her characters and plots are varied. This series seems to be a lot lower key and less suspense than her previous books were. I can see where some readers might prefer her other books more, but while I have loved every book she's ever written, I'm loving this new plot style. The books flows smoothly and quietly until you realize you are completely immersed in the story. Overall, I really enjoyed the book, despite the lack of suspense and look forward to the next book coming out. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House. All thoughts expressed are my own.
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Fatal Mistake
by
Susan Sleeman
timamurrell
, May 18, 2017
Tara is the only person who saw the Lone Wolf bomber and knows who he is. But she's terrified that he'll come after her and the police won't be able to protect her. So she runs. But the Lone Wolf is tracking her and killing anyone associated with her. Cal, an FBI agent, is intend on finding Tara and flushing out the bomber. But he can't do it without Tara's help. Both of them must work together to find the bomber before he claims another victim. But what will happen if they both give in to the attraction between them? I loved this story. The characters were flawed, yet likable. The secondary characters were a great addition and supported the main characters. The plot was original and full of suspense. The author did a great job of creating drama and tension to keep the story moving, while incorporating great elements of faith, family, and romance so the plot wasn't all about the bomber. She intricately wove the whole story together to create an edge of your seat suspense that I couldn't put down. I've enjoyed every story by this author, but this one is now my favorite. Definitely grab a copy if you enjoy suspense and romance. I received a copy of this book. All thoughts expressed are my own.
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True to You
by
Becky Wade
timamurrell
, May 02, 2017
Nora considers herself the smart sister. Her older sister Willow is the beauty, her younger sister Britt is the creative one. But Nora has wrapped herself up in her identity as a librarian even more since her fiance dumped her for another woman three years ago. She's sworn off dating and spends time working on her passion of genealogy. John, a former Navy SEAL is wanting to find his birth mother. So when he meets Nora at a training session put on by his company, he decides to enlist her services. He has a girlfriend, so Nora isn't an option and they both know it. But perhaps God has another plan for them. I've really been looking forward to this book since I read the prequel. It was everything I was expecting and a whole lot more. The characters are brought alive with the author's talented writing. I felt like I was living the story along side them. I lived on the west coast many years ago and I think the author did a great job of portraying the scenery and locations. There is humor, strong families, faith, and beauty in this story. But there is also heartache, pain, and brokenness. They were woven together so seamlessly that I thoroughly enjoyed the story as I rushed to read the ending, but after I put the book down I couldn't stop thinking about different aspects of it. The other sisters have major roles in this book that will make it easy to tie in to the next book in the series. If you love strong stories, with amazing characters who are flawed, but endearing then you need to read this book. I received a copy of this book. All thoughts expressed are my own.
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True to You
by
Becky Wade
timamurrell
, May 02, 2017
https://www.amazon.com/gp/review/R3W48JYMLZ3JYL?ref_=glimp_1rv_cl
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Heart Most Certain
by
Melissa Jagears
timamurrell
, August 04, 2016
Lydia knows what it is like to be poor and embarrassed by the actions of a family member. So she joins the Moral Society of her church. When the leader, her future mother-in-law, tasks her with getting money from the stingiest man in town. If she can get the money than she'll be considered worthy and a the type of wife that Sebastian needs for his political career. But Nicholas isn't really stingy. He just prefers to do his charity work anonymously and under his own terms. So he agrees to a wager of sorts with Lydia in hopes of showing her his side of things. Neither one gets exactly what they bargained for. I've enjoyed all of the books by this author so far. But this one is my new favorite. I loved the uniqueness of the characters, the bit of drama/suspense that was thrown in at the end, the beautiful pictures she painted, and the strong faith of the main characters. The story is definitely entertaining and I had fun reading it, but it also had some deeper elements that made me think about charity, Christian giving, and faith. The well written plot and detailed descriptions brought the story to life. This book would be enjoyed by someone who enjoys clean romance, deeper issues, a little bit of drama, and fun, historical characters. Overall, this was a wonderful book that I really enjoyed and I am looking forward to the next book by this author. I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
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An Elegant Fa�ade
by
Kristi Ann Hunter
timamurrell
, July 10, 2016
Lady Georgina must have everything perfect for her coming out. She has carefully crafted every detail and planned for three years so that nothing fails. Her secret could ruin her and she must take every precaution to ensure it stays hidden. Only her best friend and maid knows that Georgina must have the perfect man to marry if she wants to avoid ruin. Colin is just the type of man who could ruin everything and expose her darkest secrets. I have definitely found a new favorite author. I've loved all three of her books so far. The author is able to create a feeling in the book that draws the reader in. The characters are authentic and relatable. The story line is entertaining, but also has some thoughts to ponder. I love the way she seamlessly weaves faith into a genre that rarely sees it. The romance is clean, sweet, and definitely romantic with hints of comedy. The writing was good, the plot was well done, the characters were great. But really - this book was just plain fun. I loved it and can't wait to read the next one. If you enjoy regency romance then you'll fall in love with this author. I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
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Where She Belongs
by
Johnnie Alexander
timamurrell
, February 01, 2016
Shelby and her grandparents lost their ancestors home when Shelby was young. She was forced to move across the world to live with her missionary parents. She has never forgiven the Sullivans for taking her family home. Now she's a widow with two small children and the opportunity to own the home comes up. Shelby can't pass up the opportunity, even if the deal isn't what she imagined. And even if the grandson of the evil Mr. Sullivan keeps popping up. Shelby has to find out that where she belongs doesn't have to be a place. As long as she has God, friends, and family, her heart can belong anywhere. This was a complicated love story that was about so much more than the relationship of the two main characters. It was about love for family, for home, for community, and for God. The story was well written with several complicated twists. There was lots of drama, but also sweet relationships. I enjoyed the two main characters and felt that they had depth. The "villian" was aptly portrayed and made the reader dislike them very much. The author also did a great job of describing the places so that I felt immersed in the story, yet the book wasn't over logged with details. Overall, it was a great introduction to a "new to me" author. And I look forward to reading her next book. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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If I Run
by
Terri Blackstock
timamurrell
, January 31, 2016
Christy has lost every one of her family members. Her parents died in a car accident and her sister most recently in a house fire. But now that Christy is finally moving on from the grief of their deaths she receives a note in the mail that implies her sister is still alive. The note also instructs her to not contact the police. But Christy needs all of the help she can get. So she makes an appointment with Agent Lance at the FBI. Quietly they investigate who is responsible for the death or kidnapping of the sister and possibly the threat to Christy. As usual, Ms. Hannon wrote a gripping, suspenseful, and faith filled drama. It was nice to visit the McGregor brothers again and learn more about them. I'm looking forward to reading about the last brother in the next book. The author did a great job of creating and defining the villain's character. He was perfectly chilling. The romance between the two main characters was sweet, clean, and fit well with the story. I love reading anything by this author and would recommend her to anyone who enjoys Christian suspense. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Love in the Details: A November Wedding Story
by
Becky Wade
timamurrell
, November 03, 2015
Years ago Holly dumped Josh at the request of his mother. He was thinking of quitting college to return home to Holly. He was at MIT on a full scholarship and his single mother couldn't afford to pay if he left school. Holly was convinced that she was doing the right thing, but it broke her heart. Now Josh is back in town as a wealthy, successful business man. He's only back for a few weeks while he helps his best friend prepare for his wedding. But when he runs into Holly he devises a plan for them to spend a little time together. He's returning to his home in Paris in a few weeks, but maybe if he can get some closure he can get on with his life. First, the cover is absolutely gorgeous. Second, the author wrote another amazingly romantic story that just grabbed me. I have yet to read something by this author that I didn't love. But previously all of her books have been full length. So it was nice to see that she can create heartwarming characters, great plot lines, and lots of sweet romance when working within the confines of a novella. The characters were realistic, relatable, and fun to spend time with. The romance was just as sweet the second time as it was the first time. Highly recommend if you want to try out a new author and get a feel for her writing. Or, if like me, you have her on your list of favorites and want to read more of her talented writing. I received this book free of charge from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.
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Rhapsody in Red
by
Taylor, Donn
timamurrell
, November 03, 2015
Preston Barclay has become a bit of a hermit since his wife passed away. He's a professor who lives for his teaching, but doesn't really have any other life outside of the university. So when a fellow professor, Mara, comes to him for help in mediating a problem with another co-worker, he's reluctant to get involved. Turns out he should have listened to his reluctance. Now he and Mara are neck deep in a murder mystery. With a killer on the loose, an police officer with revenge on his mind, and a inept boss, they need to come together to share clues before they both end up dead. I've read another book by this author and enjoyed it. But this one was even better. The characters were well defined and fit with the genre. The author adds their backstories without overwhelming the plot. This is labeled as a Christian mystery, but the elements of faith were subtle and flowed well with the story. The mystery was wrapped up in the end, but the author left a couple of things open to lead the way for the next book. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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Vendetta
by
Lisa Harris
timamurrell
, October 22, 2015
Nikki Boyd takes her job personally. She is on the Tennessee Missing Persons Task Force. The job is one she's been moving towards ever since she lost her sister 10 years ago. So some might say she takes her job too personally. When a young teenage girl goes missing in her area, Nikki is shocked to see that the signs all point to the same person who took her sister all those years ago. He's been dormant for years and now it appears that he's back to his old tricks. I've enjoyed this author's books before and this was no exception. The feel of the plot was different from what I've read of her work in the past. But it was still her style of fast paced, suspenseful writing. There was very little romance in the story, but there were several hints that it might be coming in a book in the future. I enjoyed the dialogue and the scenery. Since I've lived in that area for years, it was nice to recognize the places she mentioned. I also enjoyed the elements of faith that were sprinkled throughout the story. The characters were flawed and not perfect Christians, but the writing pointed towards trust and faithfulness. This is definitely a book that I would recommend and I look forward to reading the next book in the series. I received this book free of charge from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my honest review.
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High-Caliber Holiday
by
Sleeman, Susan
timamurrell
, October 21, 2015
Morgan is an ex-lawyer and is being held as a hostage by a man who resents her work in her previous job. He's out for revenge and nothing is going to stop him. Morgan receives help from the first responders. Brady takes her home to find that she's been burglarized. Since they can't be sure the two cases aren't connected the first responders take a personal interest in keeping Morgan safe and solving the mystery. I really enjoyed the fast pace and suspense of the story. I've read book 2 in this series and so it was nice to revisit the characters and learn more about them. The books can be read as stand-alones, but I enjoy how they dovetail nicely together in the series. The characters are distinct and the plot is full of drama and twists. The romance was sweet between the two main characters and didn't feel rushed. This was the type of book that I rushed through trying to find out what was going to happen next, only to arrive at the end and be sad the book had finished. Looking forward to the next one in the series. I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
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Murder at the Courthouse
by
A. H. Gabhart
timamurrell
, October 21, 2015
Michael had had enough of being a beat cop in a large city. The coldness and lack of caring had gotten to him. So he returned to his hometown of Hidden Springs where nothing happened. This was completely okay with Michael. But when a local finds a dead body on the court house steps it opens an investigation into something that will rock the entire town. This was a cozy, small town mystery that really captured the essence of the locals and the slow paced feel of the town. I enjoyed the story and really enjoyed all of the quirky and diverse characters. I don't typically read cozy mysteries, so this was a nice change. I enjoyed the flow of the story and the way the plot was laid out. I will definitely be checking out the next on in the series when it comes out. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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10 Things Great Dads Do
by
Rick Johnson
timamurrell
, October 21, 2015
Great dads generally have great kids. The questions comes when a dad wants to know how to be great. The author has pulled from his experience and research to give ten great tips for dads to implement that will help them raise great kids. Each chapter talks about one strategy and gives stories, illustrations, pointers, and tips on the topic. The author writes the book from a faith base and incorporates it throughout the book. While imparting quite a bit of information, the book was still enjoyable to read and entertaining with all of the stories and illustrations. I liked the presentation and layout of the tips and extra facts in each chapter. Even though I'm a mom, I can attest to the truth of a lot of the information he gave. While my husband is already a great dad, I'll be passing this on to him to read next. This book is a wonderful asset to any family. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Shes Almost a Teenager Essential Conversations to Have Now
by
Heather Larson
timamurrell
, October 16, 2015
Navigating the pre-teen and teenage years can be daunting for both the parents and the child. Two families have come together to share their knowledge and experience with us in a unique book. Designed to start conversations, the authors have shared eight conversations that need to take place before your daughter becomes a teen. Each conversation is an essential part of her foundation as an adult. The chapters begin with thoughts from the authors and a basis for why the conversation is necessary. Each chapter ends with several conversation starters you can use with your daughter. This is a great book. I enjoyed the stories and information that was shared in each chapter. While the conversations starters will need to be tweaked a bit for my daughter, they gave me food for thought and a place to start. I liked the focus on faith and independence that were intertwined throughout. This is a good book for any parent with a pre-teen daughter. I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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Fire and Ice
by
Mary Connealy
timamurrell
, October 14, 2015
Bailey is the oldest of the sisters. So she's practiced at being a man for much longer. She's worked hard to get her ranch the way she wants it. But two things are marring her perfect set-up. Her sisters are moving away and Gage Coulter is trying to take her canyon. Technically it's his, but he needs access through Bailey's ranch to get his cattle into the valley. Bailey built in this very spot so she could cut off his access and therefor be able to use the prime location for herself. But pitting two such strong willed people together only causes problems. When those problems are directed at both of them, they decide to join forces to find out who is trying to kill them. As usual, I loved reading another book by this author. She has a way of making the story come alive and the characters lovable, despite their flaws. The plot had a touch of romance, some suspense, and characters from the previous two books. While I would definitely recommend reading the first two books, I think this book could be read as a stand-alone. Looking forward to seeing what this author writes about next. I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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Guardians of the Heart: Volume 2
by
Loree Lough
timamurrell
, October 13, 2015
Nell needed a job and found one working for Asa at the inn he had inherited. But both of them are running from their past. Disaster sends Nell back to her family mine and Asa into despair. He doesn't feel like he can be the man that Nell needs in her life because of his past. The story flowed well and it was a quick read. The characters were entertaining and relatable. The two main characters were distinct and fit well together. I enjoyed several of the secondary characters as well. This is the second book in the series, but can definitely be read as a stand alone. The author took a sweet romance and mixed drama, faith, and history into it. I received this book free of charge from BookClub Network in exchange for my review.
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Girl Meets Change: Truths to Carry You Through Life's Transitions
by
Kristen Strong
timamurrell
, October 11, 2015
Change happens to all of us. Sometimes it's anticipated and celebrated, such as having a baby or getting married. Other times, it isn't something we planned for or wanted, such as a car accident or death. But our attitude when the change happens is what dictates how we will feel during and after that change. The author knows all about change and has written a heart felt book about how to deal gracefully with change as it comes. She talks about how to draw from your faith to handle the things that might not have turned out how you had planned. I enjoyed reading this book. It was well written and interesting. The flow of the book felt like I was having a chat with the author. She incorporated personal stories to bring out her points. Plenty of scripture and biblical references made this a strong, faith-filled book. Since the author struggles with change, her writing gives the feel of comradery and encouragement. While the book is geared towards women, I think men might enjoy reading it as well. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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A Noble Masquerade
by
Kristi Ann Hunter
timamurrell
, October 11, 2015
Lady Miranda has spent her entire childhood being told how to properly act as a lady. She's now a proper young lady in her third season and is beginning to lose hope of ever finding a husband who will love her. As a young girl she began the practice of writing to a friend of her older brother, named Marsh. It would be highly improper for her to send them, so she uses the letter writing as a cathartic therapy and then hides them in a trunk. But one day the new valet accidentally mails one. What will Marsh think to be receiving a letter from a stranger. But to her horror he replies. And thus begins the most confusing months as Miranda tries to grasp the concept of actually sending letters to Marsh while falling in love with someone highly inappropriate. I'm a huge fan of regency novels. And this one fit the bill perfectly. It has suspense, romance, proper conduct, and faith in God. The characters were entertaining and fit well with the genre. The plot moved quickly and I loved several of the secondary characters. It was a quick read and I was sad to reach the end. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series. I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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The Mistress of Tall Acre
by
Frantz, Laura
timamurrell
, September 25, 2015
Seamus returns home to Tall Acre after the war with a young daughter. He's in desperate need of a mother for his little Lily Cate. Sophie agrees to marry him, knowing there isn't any love involved. But when trouble comes back to haunt them, they find love in unexpected places and must learn to trust not only each other, but their heavenly Father as well. I really enjoyed this book. The scene was set dramatically and the drama continued through the entire book. The word pictures made the book come alive. The author created characters to love (or love to hate). The book was very plot driven and while the outcome was assumed, I enjoyed the whole thing. The story brought to mind the book Jane Eyre. I would definitely read more by this author based on this book. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Taming the To Do List How to Choose Your Best Work Every Day
by
Glynnis Whitwer
timamurrell
, September 25, 2015
As women we are always chasing the to-do list. And at the end of the day some of us still feel overwhelmed and a tad guilty because everything hasn't been accomplished. The author has taken these struggles, that are personal to her as well, and written a Biblical and factual approach to getting to the root of the problem. Once the procrastinator can get behind the reasoning for their procrastination they can tame the to-do list and the things that they accomplish will be done well. At the end of each chapter is a small exercise that pertains to the topic. I picked this book up because the write-up described me. And for the first three chapters I felt like I'd picked up a book written specifically for me. Then it began to get tedious and I really had to force myself to finish. It felt ironic to be reading a book on how to prioritize my life and leave the things that didn't matter behind and to be spending time reading a book that didn't feel like it was really addressing my problem. While the content was good and I appreciated the spiritual aspect, the delivery was a bit dry for me. I would have liked a more light touch to the writing and more practical tips and suggestions that I could have put into practice. Overall, it was a nice book and will probably resonate with some readers. It just wasn't for me. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Chase Trusting God With Your Happily Ever After
by
Kelsey Kupecky
timamurrell
, September 25, 2015
Kyle, a Christian recording artist, and Kelsey, a Christian actress and the daughter of a well know author began preparing for their future spouse when they were thirteen. The book begins and ends with their love story. But in between the story is a beautiful outline on how to start trusting in God to help you find the one you are meant to be with. The authors use personal illustrations and stories about friends to illustrate their points. Scripture and well thought out advice give the reader a clear path to follow. I've been married for 19 years. So technically this book doesn't apply to me. But I was still able to glean some useful information from it and I enjoyed reading the book. And I can honestly say, that while this couple has not been married long, they have a wonderful and correct concept of the process to finding the person that God wants you to have and preparing for a marriage that blesses Him. I would recommend this book to anyone who is still looking for that special someone and will be keeping it for my children to read when they get older. The authors used relevant and culturally current information that will appeal to the teen and young adult that this book targets. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Last Chance Hero
by
Cathleen Armstrong
timamurrell
, September 22, 2015
Jessica grew up hearing stories about her grandfather, a doctor for a small town. Her dream was to follow in his footsteps. So when she moves to Last Chance as their only doctor, she thinks her dreams have come true. But coming from the city to be part of a small town is not exactly as she dreamed. The newcomers are welcoming, but don't want to use her services as a doctor until they know her better. And then there is the issue of football. Jessica is perfectly content having nothing to do with football. But that isn't going to fly in a small town that worships it's football players. This is the 3rd book of this series that I've read. While they can be read as a stand-alone, the characters bleed over from each book, so the reader would probably enjoy the book and understand the characters better if they start at the beginning. I enjoyed this story. It was sweet, simple, and uncomplicated. There wasn't a lot of drama. The book would fit well in the small town genre since it involves a lot of characters besides to main two. Clean romance that young teens or adult readers would enjoy. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Hot Mama: 12 Secrets to a Sizzling Hot Marriage
by
Kathi Lipp and Erin MacPherson
timamurrell
, September 21, 2015
As moms we often fall into the pattern of yoga pants and pony tails. With everything on our plate we often fall into bed exhausted with little interest in keeping our marriage hot. But our marriage should be our first priority. Our husbands should come first on our list. So the two authors polled friends and used their own experiences to co-author a book about how to keep the romance sizzling hot in your marriage. This book was entertaining. But it also had some useful and practical information. My husband enjoyed my reading it as well. =) The authors shared stories, advice, and Biblical knowledge to show woman that they are important and their marriage is important. I appreciated how they talked about each person being unique and special. This would be a great book to give as a shower gift or to the mom who is in the midst of raising her children. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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The Postcard: Volume 2
by
Laura V. Hilton
timamurrell
, September 14, 2015
Rachel writes letters to the people she reads about in the Amish paper. Rarely do they respond, but it gives her something to do. But an accident victim writes back and the two form a friendship. David was in a buggy accident that almost killed him. So when he's healed he makes the decision to move to Rachel's community where closed buggies are used. The bonus is that he gets to finally meet his best friend in person. He believes himself in love with Rachel. But Rachel is engaged to another man. The two need to work through their feelings about each other and about the other issues that surround them. The book started out slow for me. The plot is emotionally driven rather than character or plot driven. This means the main drama or conflict in the story is all about the character's feelings. This is book two in the series and I didn't realize this when I grabbed the book. While there are references to the first book, I do believe it can be read as a stand-alone. The chemistry and touching between the two main characters seemed completely out of character for the Amish way of life, but then I only know what I've read, so perhaps I'm wrong. Overall, it was a nice story that dealt with forgiveness and healing. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my review.
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The Potter's Lady
by
Judith Miller
timamurrell
, September 09, 2015
Rose has finished her schooling at the Philadelphia School of Design for Women. Now she wants to put her skills to the test working for her brother at his pottery business. Rylan was the right hand man for the previous owner. But the new owners are making changes and Rylan has never been a fan of change. But as he works closely with Rose and her brother, Ewan, he realizes they might be trusting the wrong person. Can a contest be the clue to saving their business or will it ruin everything they've worked so hard to accomplish? The author is really good at creating mental pictures. I was able to "see" the story with all of the descriptions. There was quite a bit of explanation about the pottery and how it was run. While this was interesting to me, it did seem to detract from the main plot of the story. The plot moved very slowly for me and it took me over half of the book before it picked up. I enjoyed the intrigue surrounding the competition and the contest. This is book two in the series and while I think the book would work okay as a stand-alone, I would recommend reading book one first. Overall, it was a nice, descriptive story with a good message that had a slow start and weak romance. I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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Surrender to Love
by
Maryann Diorio
timamurrell
, September 09, 2015
Dr. Teresa lost her husband years ago and is still reeling from the loss. When her husband passed away, she moved in with her mom to help her cope with the changes. As a life coach, she should be taking her own advice and moving on. But for some reason she's stuck in the past and can't seem to get over it. So when the opportunity to travel to Puerto Rico comes up, Teresa's mom urges her to go. Teresa will be counseling a young girl who lost her mother and is dealing with her own grief. The story was short, more of a novella length. The plot was emotional and dealt with the subject of grief and some of the effects it can have on an individual. There was a bit of romance thrown into the story, but it was more about the thoughts and emotions of the characters than a plot driven story. The story felt very surface and light despite the subject matter. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my review.
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Nickerbacher, The Funniest Dragon
by
Terry John Barto
timamurrell
, September 09, 2015
Nickerbacher is a young dragon guarding a castle. His father gave him the assignment, but he really wants to be a comedian. He confides his wishes to the young princess that he is currently guarding. She encourages him to follow his heart and talk to his father. Bright, colorful artwork fills each page and help tell the story. The message of taking chances, being true to oneself, and acceptance is prominent throughout the story. Children will enjoy the humorous illustrations. Parents will appreciate the opening provided by the story for further discussion. My children, especially my daughter, really enjoyed the story and wanted me to read it to them again. So it was a hit with our family. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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House on Fire: Revival Begins in the House
by
Antonio Baldovinos and Christelle Baldovinos
timamurrell
, September 03, 2015
If you want to see change in the world, you must begin at home with your own family. Only by changing the family can the world be changed. The authors have a lot of experience in the ministry, but also in their family. They have a healthy marriage and five children, so drew from their personal experiences to write a book about reviving the heart at home. They touch on quite a few aspects of the home life - such as parenting, marriage, dating, and the different aspects of the mother and father. The writing is simplistic in style, without flowery words or verbose chapters. The authors use practical, useful illustrations and ideas to bring across their message. It's a refreshing and on-point look at how we can make a difference for God in our own home. I enjoyed the more personal approach and the suggestions were helpful. I appreciated the frequent use of scripture to back up their points. I think this would be a great book for a young family starting out, but it will be just as useful to those of us with more "experience" in life. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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Gods Smuggler Expanded Edition
by
Brother Andrew, John Sherrill, Elizabeth Sherrill
timamurrell
, September 03, 2015
Andrew grew up in a poor, but loving family in Holland. Years later found Brother Andrew sneaking behind the Iron Curtain to secretly deliver Bibles to the believers trapped there. Smuggling Bibles isn't without peril and hardships. But Brother Andrew was granted miracles and beautiful friendships with people all over the world that enabled him to spread the message of love to people who were starving for the message. I read this book years ago and couldn't put it down. So I was delighted with a chance to read the newest addition with the extras that were added to it. It's still a captivating story that inspires and convicts the reader. The writers have written the story to thrill the reader, but also to show the depths of love and great lengths that God will go to, to read His children. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good story, but also those who have a burden for spreading the word of God. I received this book free of charge from Chosen in exchange for my honest review.
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Flying Affair
by
Carla Stewart
timamurrell
, August 31, 2015
Mittie is in love with two things - horses and flying. But flying is her passion. She's currently helping her father at the farm while he recovers from some health problems. But what she's really like to do is buy her own airplane and fly. So when two men enter her life that have a love of flying, Mittie is in heaven. But she must trust her faith and her instincts to make the right decision when it comes to choosing the man who will have her heart. The story is rich with the history of flying and brings the era to life. Since the main character lives on a horse farm there is also parts about horse races and the life style that includes. The author did a great job of creating the main character and having her be likable and relatable. Since my husband is a pilot, I enjoyed reading more about flying in its infancy. The story is more about the main character and her path into flying than romance. But she does have two love interests and the romance is woven into the plot. Her romantic story was a little bit confusing for me. I was unable to feel the connection she had with either man and couldn't see how she chose the one for her so quickly in the end. But overall, it was an enjoyable read that I know fans of flying and history will enjoy. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my review.
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Crazy Little Thing Called Love: A Destination Wedding Novel
by
Beth K. Vogt
timamurrell
, August 18, 2015
Vanessa and Logan were high school sweethearts. But two years after their rushed wedding they called it quits. Hurt feelings and regret kept them from keeping in contact afterwards. Fast forward eight years and Vanessa is engaged. Her fiance wants to combine a medical conference with their wedding in Destin, Florida. Vanessa never expects to run into Logan. He left years ago with the storm chaser company that he started while they were married. But a hurricane and mutual friends keep throwing them together unexpectedly. Now they must decide whether to let things go or find out what when wrong. The story starts slowly and the ending is known from the beginning. The author brought the beach scenery alive. She used flashbacks to tell the relationship between the couple. The story is character driven and deals with emotions and mixed signals. It wraps up quickly with the main three characters resolving their relationships. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my review.
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Not by Sight
by
Kate Breslin
timamurrell
, July 30, 2015
Britain is in the midst of WWI. Grace has a brother who has joined the fight and she wants him to come home. She naively thinks that if more men will join the war will be quickly over. So she crashes a party one night and hands out the white feathers to men she thinks are cowards. One man in particular is her focus. Her actions land her in trouble with her father and soon she finds herself working in the country helping with war efforts. What she finds there will change her life and that of her entire family. I've been wanting to read this book since I first heard of it. Thankfully it more than lived up to the hype. The book captured my attention from the very first chapter. The characters were complex and well defined. The descriptions were vivid and allowed me to "see" the story. The author was able to take a story during a dark period in history and add some beautiful elements to it. The plot was both complicated and yet easy to follow. I thoroughly enjoyed the suspense and twists the author used to guide the plot. I enjoyed the friendships and the elements of faith that the author wove into the story. This is definitely an author that will be added to my favorites list. I look forward to her next book. I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
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Real Food for Rookies: Healthy Cooking - Traditional Food - Vibrant Health
by
Kelly Moeggenborg
timamurrell
, July 27, 2015
The author changed her family's diet and wrote this book to show the reader the simple steps to implementing a healthy in their lives. She begins by talking about how to take it one step at a time and what to start with first. She then builds on each chapter with additional information. This book is for the beginner in healthy cooking. The steps are simple and easy to understand and implement. There are a few black and white pictures and six recipes included in one of the chapters. With the exception of the soda pop recipe, all of the recipes are simple and easy to make. This book would be great for someone who is completely lost when it comes to implementing a healthy diet and needs a starting point and some general ideas. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my review.
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Hope Harbor
by
Irene Hannon
timamurrell
, July 27, 2015
Tracy is content working her family cranberry farm with her uncle in Hope Harbor. But finances, or the lack of, were threatening to shut down the farm. So she enlists an a vacationer named Michael to help while he's visiting. Michael has come to town to try to recover from burn out at his job and to hopefully heal some mental and spiritual wounds. The two just might find healing together. This wasn't the typical story that I'm used to reading by this author. But it was still a good read. The story had a sweet, small town feel with quirky characters, faith filled moments, and a bit of romance. It showcased the importance of family and forgiveness and left me with a deeper appreciation for my loved one. While not what I was expecting, it was a good book that I would definitely recommend. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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To Capture Her Heart
by
Rebecca Demarino
timamurrell
, July 27, 2015
Heather Flower is an Indian princess. When she's captured by another tribe of Indians, her father sends a Dutch man named Dirk to rescue her. She watched her husband be murdered and can't go back home, so she goes to visit her aunt until her heart can heal. A long time friend Ben is there to help her feel welcome in his community again. Heather and Ben must heal their broken hearts and decide if they have room to let another person in again. The story also catches the reader up on the happenings of the small community that was introduced in book one. This is a book that is rich in details and has a large cast of characters. It is a historical family saga that spans quite a bit of time. The book picks up approximately 12 years after book one ends and tries to catch the reader up on everything that has happened since. I was immediately bogged down in the details. The romance was weak and didn't grab me. There were so many characters that I had a hard time remembering who was who, despite the fact that I'd read the 1st book. I wasn't convinced of the great love between the two characters and couldn't really get a feel for their personalities. This book will appeal to someone who enjoys this type of thing, but I couldn't get into it. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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In Good Company
by
Jen Turano
timamurrell
, July 27, 2015
Millie doesn't mean to get fired - again and again. Her employers just don't understand her nanny methods. But despite her lack of work she refuses to work for Everett Mulberry. He hurt her feelings when he refused her a job earlier and now she won't have anything to do with him. Everett is in desperate need of another nanny after yet another one walked out on him. He is a bachelor that suddenly became the guardian for wild three children and is now willing to beg Millie to work for him. If the two can survive it just might be the best thing that ever happened to them. I started laughing during the first chapter and laughed my way through this entire book. Millie was a hilarious character. I really enjoyed the first book in the series and this one was even better. The plot was well laid out and set the scene for the two main characters. But the children played a huge part in the book as well and were fun to read about. The author also did a great job of setting up the character for the next book in the series that will come out some time next year. I am eagerly waiting to read that one. On a side note - the author had Millie love new words and sprinkled them throughout the book. I love unusual words, so this was a fun little addition for me. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network and Bethany house in exchange for my honest review.
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Gone without a Trace
by
Patricia Bradley
timamurrell
, July 08, 2015
Homicide detective Livy is trying to deal with the death of a teenager that she shot during a robbery. It was justified since he pulled a gun on her, but she still can't seem to overcome the images. Her boss recommends a vacation and Livy heads to Logan Point. But once there she runs into Private Investigator Alex Jennings who is investigating the disappearance of a young girl. The clues all look just like the ones that were there two years ago when Livy's cousin disappeared. Can the two be linked? Livy agrees to help Alex in hopes of finding her cousin. Even though this is the 3rd in the series it can be read as a stand-alone. But based on the writing I would highly recommend reading the first two books. Ms. Bradley is not an author you want to miss. The suspense is well laid out and fits with the plot. The characters are likable or the kind you love to hate. I enjoyed the interaction between the family members and felt the scene was well set for the story. Ms. Bradley might be fairly new to the writing scene, but she's good. I will definitely be reading more of her in the future and would highly recommend her to anyone loving Christian suspense. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Explosive Alliance
by
Susan Sleeman and Susan Sleeman
timamurrell
, July 07, 2015
Krista is at the ball stadium spending some quality time with her grandpa. But when a man leaves a backpack in the stands and refuses to go back and get it, she investigates. It's a bomb. She rushes back to alert Officer Dixon, the officer she saw a few minutes earlier. What happens next is unbelievable. Break-ins, kidnapping, and more bombs are just a few of the things now intruding into Krista's life. Her previous experience tells her that she can't trust law enforcement. But Cash Dixon and his team seem to be the exception. The story definitely starts off with a bang (pun intended). And the suspense and drama don't let up. The relationship between Krista and her grandfather is sweet and balances out the tension in the rest of the plot. The characters are likable and give another glimpse into the family relationship the whole team has. I won't give any spoilers, but I like how the two different aspects of the investigation played together and ended out the story. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
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Silent Night Standoff (Love Inspired Suspense)
by
Susan Sleeman
timamurrell
, July 07, 2015
Skyler is a hostage negotiator. But she soon realizes that things are completely different from the other side. She's cashing a check at the bank when the infamous Bonnie and Clyde couple storms in and starts pointing their guns. Logan, an FBI agent, is soon on the scene. He's great at his job. But there is one tiny problem - he dumped Skyler to pursue his career two years ago. Skyler and her team of first responders are a close knit group. They all live in the old fire station and are closer than family. They aren't going to be super happy to let him into their group while they solve the bank robbery. The tension starts out immediately with the bank robbery. It doesn't stop until the last few pages as the group of first responders tries to stop the bank robber and the person trying to kill Skyler. The characters were well developed and authentic. Each person stood out on the team and the little side information helps the reader anticipate the next books in the series. I liked the faith elements that were woven into the story with the suspense. The relationship between the two main characters was sweet. This was a great book to start the series and I look forward to reading the next books. I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
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Web of Deceit
by
Susan Sleeman
timamurrell
, July 07, 2015
Kaitlyn works for the FBI. When she discovers her brother-in-law is a cyber criminal she confronts him. But in the fight he shoots her sister and runs. Three years later Kaitlyn is raising her niece and desperately searching for the man that killed her sister. But Vyper is always one step ahead of her. Sam, a local detective, is brought on when Vyper kills another computer geek. Now the two are racing against time to save lives, including Kaitlyns. If I had to sum up this book in one word it would be chilling. The suspense and drama were high, the author really did her research. The criminal was positively creepy. The characters were intense, but likable. The intensity went well with the plot and the jobs that they had. There was also a small romantic thread woven throughout the story. I look forward to reading the next book in the series and seeing how everything plays out with several of the secondary characters. I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
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Gollywood, Here I Come!
by
Terry John Barto
timamurrell
, July 06, 2015
Little Anamazie, the turkey, dreams of being a big star. So when she comes in second at the local talent show she's devastated. But she and her mother are thrilled when a talent scout approaches them and offers Anamazie a chance to try out for a new movie. Anamazie auditions for the part and gets it. Soon she's on her way to Gollywood and the life of a star. Her mother is right when she says "You can do anything if you work hard and never give up. The illustrations make this book. They are bright, colorful, and fill each page. The little bird character with her long lashes is precious. My daughter's favorite part of the book was the pictures. The story was cute. It didn't focus on the message of "hard work" very much and glamorized acting. My daughter enjoyed the story, but wanted to know what the movie was about. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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Laugh-Out-Loud Pocket Doodles for Boys
by
Rob Elliott
timamurrell
, June 28, 2015
Kids love jokes. The author has combined jokes and drawing to create a fun and entertaining book that will keep children occupied for hours. Each page has a joke, the answer, and a half drawn picture that goes with the joke. The instructions tell you what you can draw to finish the doodle. But creativity is also allowed. I asked my son (8 yrs old) what he thought of the book after he'd been poring over it. These are his words - "Awesome! Best book of jokes I've ever read. The pictures are pretty funny, but I like the jokes the best. I like that I can draw in the book too." This is a fun little book that will fit in a purse and can be used for those long doctor appointments or car rides. My son loves it and that makes it a 5 star in my book. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Unselfish: Love Thy Neighbor as Thy Selfie
by
Paul D. Parkinson
timamurrell
, June 28, 2015
Unselfish is a collection of 99 stories that are all about the unselfishness of humanity. Each story is accompanied by at least one picture. The stories are submitted by various people who were inspired by the unselfishness of someone. They range from the love between a married couple to humanitarian acts of kindness. Each of the stories were inspiring and heartwarming. Since the stories are all so different it was a nice mix when reading. It was nice to pick the book up and read a couple of the stories when I had a few minutes. This book would be an excellent coffee table book or gift. I will be keeping this book and pulling it out to read parts in the future. My only complaint, a tiny one, would be that some of the pictures are unclear. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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A Bride at Last
by
Melissa Jagears
timamurrell
, June 23, 2015
Kate, a school teacher, is shocked when two men show up to claim Anthony. Anthony's mother has passed away and asked Kate to care for her son upon her death. Silas has been abandoned multiple times in his life. Now that he knows he has a son, he refuses to abandon Anthony. Richard needs cash quickly, so he wants Anthony to turn to pickpocketing to net him some quick cash. How can Kate figure out who the true father is and who to trust? Anthony also needs to learn to trust adults after a rough childhood. The characters are the draw for this intriguing book. The author was able to create individuals who were seriously flawed and make them lovable. They had strength and depth of character. The plot had several twists and turns that kept the story moving and the reader engaged. While this is book three in the series and previous characters are present, it can be read as a stand-alone. I enjoy this author's writing style and use of visual descriptions that place you into the story with the characters. I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
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Unselfish: Love Thy Neighbor as Thy Selfie
by
Paul D. Parkinson
timamurrell
, June 23, 2015
Unselfish is a collection of 99 stories that are all about the unselfishness of humanity. Each story is accompanied by at least one picture. The stories are submitted by various people who were inspired by the unselfishness of someone. They range from the love between a married couple to humanitarian acts of kindness. Each of the stories were inspiring and heartwarming. Since the stories are all so different it was a nice mix when reading. It was nice to pick the book up and read a couple of the stories when I had a few minutes. This book would be an excellent coffee table book or gift. I will be keeping this book and pulling it out to read parts in the future. My only complaint, a tiny one, would be that some of the pictures are unclear. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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Laugh-Out-Loud Pocket Doodles for Girls
by
Rob Elliott
timamurrell
, June 22, 2015
Kids love jokes. The author has combined jokes and drawing to create a fun and entertaining book that will keep children occupied for hours. Each page has a joke, the answer, and a half drawn picture that goes with the joke. The instructions tell you what you can draw to finish the doodle. But creativity is also allowed. My daughter (6 yrs old) giggled as she read through the entire book. Then she told me she "loved it" and sat down to draw. So it was definitely a hit. The book is small and will fit easily into a purse for those long doctor appointments or car rides when kids are easily bored. The illustrations and doodles that fill the book are just as hilarious as the jokes and add to the fun. Would definitely recommend this book for anyone with kids or someone looking for a great gift or stocking stuffer. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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A Worthy Pursuit
by
Karen Witemeyer
timamurrell
, June 16, 2015
Charlotte was given custody of an exceptional little girl, Lily. But her grandfather wants to use her abilities to help him cheat at business. So he's hired the best "retriever" for the job. But he fails to mention to Stone that he doesn't exactly have custody of Lily. So Stone arrives to retrieve Lily and gets the surprise of a lifetime. Now Charlotte and Stone must race against time to find a way to keep Lily safe from her conniving grandfather. The writing had the author's signature humor and faith woven into the story. Several of the characters were endearing and added depth to the story. The plot wasn't super gripping or suspenseful for me and often didn't seem realistic. I love this author and while I definitely enjoyed the story, this wasn't one of my favorite of her books. I appreciated the way that she dealt with the issues the main characters had. She wrote the gifted children into the story in a sweet and delightful way. Overall, I would say it was worth my time since I enjoyed reading it, but I would have enjoyed it more if it had more of a realistic plot. I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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Desperate Measures
by
Sandra Orchard
timamurrell
, June 15, 2015
Kate, a botanist researcher, has finally found the plant that tore her family apart. Now she's hiding the mysterious plants in her basement lab while she tries to find out what miracles it supposedly contains. But she's not the only one with questions about the plant. A detective, Tom Parker, is more interested in protecting Kate. But Kate doesn't have time for romance. She wants to find her father and the answers to the mysterious plant. The book was very well written with lots of intrigue and suspense. It reminded me of an Lynette Eason, Irene Hannon or Dee Henderson story. The characters were relatable and had depth. The plot was detailed and full of twists. This was a plus and negative for me. I haven't read the first two books in the series so was unable to follow a few of the lines occasionally. It felt like I really needed to have read the first two to get an idea of where the author wanted the reader to go. I definitely wouldn't call this book a stand-alone. There were parts of the romance that seemed rushed or forced to me, but since I haven't read the first two books I could have missed something from before. Overall, it was a nice introduction to a new author for me and I'll be checking out the first two books in this series. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Once Upon a Summertime A New York City Romance
by
Melody Carlson
timamurrell
, June 04, 2015
Anna moved back to her hometown to be with her widowed grandmother. But when a wonderful job opportunity to move to New York comes, she jumps at it. After getting a job at a posh hotel she meets the new manager, Sean, an old acquaintance from her hometown. Sparks fly immediately, but a no dating policy at the hotel puts their jobs in danger if they continue the relationship. This is one of those light, fluffy, fast reads. It only took me a couple of hours from start to finish. The romance was rushed and I couldn't connect with any of the characters. The plot and secondary characters appeared to only be there to support the hurried romance. I was also surprised because this is supposed to be Christian fiction and the only real aspect of God was the two prayers that Sean prayed for meals at the end of the book. But for some reason, it was such a fun read that I didn't mind. So I'm giving this a much higher rating than if I normally would have because I enjoyed it. And I fully intend to read the next book in the series. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Living in Tandem: Working Together on a Forever Marriage
by
Lunde, Dave and Lunde, Sue
timamurrell
, June 03, 2015
Marriage is like riding a tandem bike. It requires both parties to be fully invested and both to be working equally to get the bike moving in the correct direction. The authors purchased just such a bike years ago and used the bike to draw parallel illustrations about marriage and how working together fortifies a forever relationship. The chapters (or concepts) begin with a Bible verse and then continue with the author's thoughts on the text and the lessons they drew from riding together. They intersperse personal stories with their thoughts to make the book seem more relatable. The book was informative and I wasn't surprised to read that they taught marriage classes. They covered a wide range of topics that all couples just starting out or needing a refresher course would benefit from reading. The book would also make a good small group study for married couples. So it would have been nice to see some discussion questions in the back. But even without the questions I would recommend this for newly married couples or small groups who want to learn more about working together. I received this book free of charge from BookClub Network in exchange for my review.
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Fatal Trauma
by
Richard L. Mabry
timamurrell
, June 02, 2015
Dr. Mark Baker walks into the hall at the hospital to see his girlfriend Kelly being held at gunpoint. The gunman has taken the nurse hostage in hopes she will find him a doctor who can help his brother who has been shot. What follows is a series of events that neither Mark or Kelly saw coming. People are dying all around them. Their very lives are in danger and neither one can afford a misstep. This was my first book by this author and it won't be my last. The suspense is great, but I also liked the elements of faith and the tiny bit of romance that was thrown in. I would have preferred a little more in the romance department. The relationship between the couple seemed faint and one dimensional. But this didn't stop my enjoyment of the book. The medical jargon is spot on, but wasn't overwhelming or too confusing for the non-medical person. The author writes flawed, but likeable characters. The clues are often misleading so I didn't suspect the final ending. It was well done and definitely made me want to read another one. I received this book free of charge from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my honest review.
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How to Love Your Neighbor Without Being Weird
by
Lively, Amy
timamurrell
, June 01, 2015
How often do we, as Christians, work to get our friends and family into the church, but completely ignore our neighbors. They are the ones that live the closest to us and yet we might not even know their names. The author outlines steps to getting to know our neighbors in a non-threatening way. She begins with the steps on how to invite them over for coffee and then to ease into a neighborhood Bible study. But she also outlines so much more. Each chapter takes a different aspect of "being a neighbor" and breaks it down. She uses lots of scripture and ends each chapter with steps the reader can take to put the chapter into action. The book was well written. The chapters are outlined well and are easy to implement. I liked the questions as the end of each chapter. I'll be honest, I had a hard time starting this book. The first couple of chapters didn't grab me and I wanted to quit. I thought the only idea was to have a Bible study in my home and I'm not at that place yet. But once I got through the first couple of chapters I really got into the book and was pleasantly surprised. This is a book for any woman who wants to reach out to those around her. It has practical advice and amusing stories that entertain while they teach. So even if you don't have neighbors who live close enough to visit, you can still benefit from the thoughts in this book. I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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In Firefly Valley
by
Amanda Cabot
timamurrell
, June 01, 2015
Marisa returns to her small Texas hometown with her tail between her legs. She'd planned to be wealthy and working for a large company by this time. Instead she's driving a car with a suspicious rattle and not a penny to her name. The new owners of Rainbow's End have hired her and she's grateful for the job. But her home has too many painful memories. First, I love the cover. It highlights the romantic path this book takes so well. The story is sweet with a tiny bit of conflict. The author weaves a message of faith throughout the book. This time there were actually several romantic stories being told at once. I would recommend this book for people who like light romance, books with a Christian message, or stories with a Texas feel. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Hiding Place
by
Corrie Ten Boom, John Sherrill, Elizabeth Sherrill
timamurrell
, May 22, 2015
Corrie and her family own a watch shop in the Netherlands. But when World War II starts their loyalties are tested. They can't sit by and watch while thousands of Jews are killed. So they secretly alter their home to hid a few people. When someone betrays them they are all rounded up and sent to the concentration camps. Corrie and her sister Betsie must endure the most terrible conditions. Corrie is amazed at her sister's faith and learns to trust in God no matter the circumstances. I loved the adult version and was so excited to see an edited version for children. Both of my children enjoyed the book. Corrie Ten Boom is an amazing and inspiring woman. Her story reaches out to the young and old alike. It's one that I felt blessed to be able to share with my family. The black and white drawings were a plus with my young readers. The story, while dealing with harsh reality, didn't cross the line as far as too much information. This is a book I would recommend every household having in their library. I received this book free of charge from Chosen in exchange for my honest review.
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Never Say No Raising Big Picture Kids
by
Mark Foreman, Jan Foreman
timamurrell
, May 20, 2015
The authors are somewhat famous in that they are the parents of Jon and Tim Foreman of Switchfoot. They've written an inspiring book about how to raise kids in a world that is full of selfishness. The book is about how to pull your children above the petty things that pull them towards being self-centered and create a child who loves God and is compassionate and caring about the world around him. It's divided into three sections so the reader can jump in wherever they feel the need in their parenting. But it's best read from cover to cover. Written in a personal, down to earth style, the writers have captured the essence of what most Christian parents want for their children. I was humbled and inspired as I read. I want this for my children. The stories and examples shared gave me a jumping off point and the concepts, while to the point, also left room for individuality. This is the parenting book that I will be recommending to everyone. It's just that good. I received this book free of charge from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review.
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As Love Blooms
by
Lorna Seilstad
timamurrell
, May 15, 2015
Tessa wants to make her mark as a gardener. She's been in school studying horticulture and needs a job to prove to her family that she's finally grown up. But no one will take her seriously because she's a woman. So when she meets Reese, a gardener in Como Park they strike a deal that will benefit both of them if they can pull it off. I had so much fun reading this story. Unfortunately I didn't read the first two books in the series, but the book worked well as a stand-alone. The author wrote with humor, but also brought serious elements into the story. She showcased the importance of family and a strong faith in God. Her characters were realistic, but entertaining. The strong relationship between the family members definitely made me want to go back and read the previous two books. I've enjoyed my first book by this author and will be checking out her other books. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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No Place to Hide
by
Lynette Eason
timamurrell
, May 08, 2015
Ian accidentally reads an email intended for another Ian at his work. It appears to be a puzzle. But when he shows it to a couple of people they disappear or end up dead. Now he's on the run and wanted for terrorist acts against his country. He's just a simple lab guy who can't understand how in the world this happened. And into the mess steps an old friend, Jackie, who just might be able to help. But accepting her help puts her in danger too. The suspense in this book was well done. It was a race to finish so I could figure out all of the details. And just when I thought I'd figured out what was happening another plot twist was thrown in. The book is third in a series, but I didn't feel like I needed to have read them to complete this story. It definitely stands alone. The author was able to create scenes that pulled the reader in. I really enjoyed the action and will definitely read more by this author again. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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A Love Like Ours
by
Becky Wade
timamurrell
, May 05, 2015
Jake Porter was wounded during his stint in the Marines. But his mental scars are much worse than the external ones. PTSD, survivors guilt, and a loss of his faith make for a very tormented man. He is intimidating, quiet, and brooding. But his gift for horses speak to the man he still is inside. Years ago Lyndie and Jake were best friends. Lyndie is now back in town and wants a job working for Jake. Can she get past the scars and torment to reach the man she use to know? I fell in love with this story. The complexity and depth made this more than just a sweet romance. The author did a wonderful job of portraying the anguish in Jake's soul and the love in Lyndie's heart. The families represented were authentic and really showed their love and support to the two main characters. There was definitely romance and chemistry between the couple. This was a romance, after all. But the strong message of faith was woven so expertly throughout the story that I finished the book feeling awed by the amazing love of God. Once again this author has written an beautiful story. Looking forward to the next book in the series. I received this book free of charge from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my honest review.
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To Win Her Favor
by
Tamera Alexander
timamurrell
, April 30, 2015
In two weeks Maggie is going to lose her home at auction. Her father's health is failing and their only hope is if she can race her horse Bourbon Belle. But when her jockey, a small freed child is a victim of hate she is in danger of losing everything. Cullen is considered almost as bad as the black people because he's Irish. He can't find a single person who will sell property to him. So when he comes across the desperate owner of Linden Downs they strike up a bargain. Cullen will save him and his daughter in exchange for the property. It seems a small price to pay, but some hidden secrets threaten to take the entire place down. What a beautiful and heart wrenching story. The characters were so real and authentic that I felt I was living the story along with them. The imagery was amazing. The story was all about heartache, love, faith, compromise, and values. It had heart. Some of the subject matter was so heartbreaking that it was difficult to read. But these things really happened and I felt the author did an outstanding job of portraying them realistically without compromising the story or making it too harsh. I haven't read the first book in this series and it didn't seem to detract from the story at all. But based on this book I will definitely be adding it to my reading list. And I'm eagerly anticipating the next book in the series. I received this book free of charge from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my honest review.
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Heartsong Presents #1130: Lone Star Ranger
by
Renae Brumbaugh
timamurrell
, April 29, 2015
Elizabeth and her brother, Evan, have just arrived in town and are eating at the local diner when a Texas Ranger arrests Evan. Evan is accused of being a notorious outlaw who is known as a cold-blooded killer. But Elizabeth can't let her brother hang for crimes he didn't commit. So her sets out to prove his innocence. The only thing in her way is the pesky Texas Ranger named Rett. But Elizabeth is not going to let that slow her down. The story starts off quickly and the tension between the two main characters is very defined. The book was a quick read that I enjoyed. The story focused on the false arrest and the main characters trying to get to the bottom of the story. There wasn't a lot of back story or very many secondary characters since so much of the focus was spent on the accusation. The story ended abruptly and I wasn't ever clear just how the issues with the brother were resolved. Readers of romantic westerns would enjoy the feel and drama of this story. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my review.
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Purposeful Parenting Six Steps To Bring Out The Best In Your Kids
by
Jean Barnes
timamurrell
, April 28, 2015
"Turn Chaos to Calm, Stress to Sanity, and Confusion to Clarity." The author takes a Biblical approach to explaining numerous scenarios and situations parents might find themselves in on the journey of raising children. There are only six chapters, but each chapter is packed with solutions, advice, stories, and thoughts. The steps are laid out clearly and the concepts are explained. The instructions to implement the steps are easy to understand and doable for a bewildered parent. I really enjoyed this book. It is a huge book and will take some time to read, but it will be well worth your time. The author clearly knows and loves kids. This isn't one of those simple "do this and this will happen" types of books. Every kid is different, so the author has clearly taken this into account when writing the book. This is one of those books that I would recommend to all parents, regardless of their children's age. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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Every Bride Needs a Groom
by
Janice Thompson
timamurrell
, April 23, 2015
Katie is so sure that her boyfriend is going to propose that she enters a contest to win a wedding gown from a famous designer. But the day she receives the news that she's won, her boyfriend dumps her. Living in a small town means living in a fish bowl. Everyone is so concerned with how she's handling the break up that she doesn't know how to tell them she needs to go to Dallas to get a dress. The first word I thought of after finishing this book was fun. The author captured the essence of a small town very well. The characters, especially the older generation, were spot on and hilarious. The build up to receiving the dress was great and the romance was sweet. I do wish that the story of their romance had more depth and more of an ending, but overall it was nice. I appreciated that the author was able to write about both the city and the small town without making either of them negative. Both were portrayed well. The elements of faith and a strong Christian message was woven throughout the story without ever coming across too strong. It was refreshing. I really enjoyed reading the story and definitely plan on reading the next book in the series. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Thick as Thieves An Andrea Carter Book
by
Susan K Marlow
timamurrell
, April 22, 2015
Andrea really, really doesn't want to go to school. Her mare has just had twin foals and she feels like her time would be better spent training them. But her family insists and her reluctantly returns. But when a dirty, smelly, snarling girl named Macy becomes her seatmate Andrea is sure that school couldn't get any worse. Macy is terrorizing the entire school and spews hate every second. The entire school is terrified of her. But Andrea's sister keeps urging her to try to befriend Macy. Andrea learns that sticking up for the defenseless and the unloved can be challenging, but rewarding. I'm not usually fond of books written for teenagers. But this one surprised me. It was entertaining, well written, and had some great lessons on faith, trust, and Christ-like love. The suspense and drama fit with the plot and was a good level for the intended age group. The author really brought home the importance of family. It's definitely a book I'll be keeping for my daughter to read when she's a little older. My only complaint was that I felt like I was missing something despite this being book 1. It felt like I'd jumped into the middle of the series with references to things that had happened in the past. It can be read as a stand-alone, but I would recommend getting the previous books first. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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Legacy
by
Dan Walsh, Gary Smalley
timamurrell
, April 16, 2015
Doug has been going through the motions for years, but he hasn't felt a connection with God in quite some time. His parents concern for him grows as he heads off for college. Christina has moved into Doug's parents garage apartment and is settling in. But her unreciprocated feelings for Doug and her feeling of uselessness prompt her to make some changes in her life. The story picks up where the third book left off. I wouldn't recommend this book as a stand-alone since all of the characters from the previous books are not only in the story, but their stories continue to some degree. The writing style feels like a little like a non-fiction counseling book that has been put to fiction. The thoughts and feelings appear to be over expressed to prove a point. The authors bring lots of Biblical truth and thoughtful insight into their writing while telling an entertaining story that will keep readers engaged. The authors wrapped up the series with this book and tied up any loose ends from the previous books. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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By Your Side
by
Candace Calvert
timamurrell
, April 16, 2015
Macy Winn doesn't trust anyone. Not after what her father did to her. She's learned some hard lessons about foster care and trusting men. She's an ER nurse who loves her job, but doesn't do relationships or religion. Fletcher Holt is a deputy from Texas who is only in California while his mother fights her battle with cancer. Despite everything that has happened to him, he still clings to his faith. The two first meet when a sniper causes a pile up on the freeway. Their lives intertwine in ways they never imagined as they fight their feelings, their beliefs, and a killer. The story opens with a bang and never stops. The medical drama combined with the suspense, romance, and faith is the perfect combination for this story. The characters meshed well with each other. The secondary characters and side dramas added to the depth of the story. I really enjoyed how the author brought in the elements of faith to the story and how the main characters dealt with their issues regarding their beliefs. This was a fun read that also had some introspective spots. I've enjoyed other books by this author and this one was no exception. Definitely a book I would recommend and will be keeping to read again. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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Together With You
by
Victoria Bylin
timamurrell
, April 10, 2015
Carly is working at the mall when she hears the alert for a lost child come over the speakers. She works in a children's store so it's no surprise when she finds her playing with the stuffed animals. She recognizes some of Penny's symptoms, but when the terrified father arrives, he confirms them. Penny has fetal alcohol effects. Because of the rapport between them, the father, Ryan, asks Carly to be Penny's nanny. But Carly is haunted by her past and her previous experiences with fetal alcohol syndrome. After prayer and council with her father, she takes the job. Dr. Ryan is agnostic, Penny is a struggling Christian. Their beliefs and values couldn't be more further apart. How can two opposites come together to raise these children and possible fall in love? It will take a divine miracle. This was my first book by this author and I loved it. Her writing style grabs your attention and pulls you into the story. The details make you feel like you are experiencing life along with the characters. Her characters are realistic, flawed, and likeable. The subject of disabilities and fetal alcohol effect was nicely handled and fit well with the story. I could tell the author had really researched the subject. I'm adding this book to my library and will definitely be reading more by this author. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network and Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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The Creole Princess
by
Beth White
timamurrell
, April 10, 2015
Lyse Lanier is living in Mobile, Alabama with her friends and family during the start of the war for independence with Britain. A young Spanish merchant with a flair for life struts into her life. She's not sure what to think of him and isn't sure if she can trust him. Lyse must decide where her loyalties lie and who she is going to choose to trust and spend her life with. This is the second book in the series, but I think it could stand alone. The cover is gorgeous and will definitely make people pick up the book. The story started off slow for me, but picked up as I got more into the plot. The author has the story packed with history and details that a historical novel reader will love. I felt more educated about that time period and area when I finished reading the book. The details paint a rich story of Alabama during that time and help to create a beautiful backdrop for the plot. I had a hard time relating or connecting to the characters, but felt the historical part helped carry the story. Overall, it was a nice story that a lot of readers will fall in love with. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Dauntless
by
Dina L. Sleiman
timamurrell
, April 03, 2015
Lady Merry watched her father, and many of the village, be killed because he tried to rebel against the king. She's just a young girl, but she gathers up all of the orphaned children and hides in the woods. As the years go by they each perfect their skills until one day finds them stealing the tax gold from the royal guards on the road to deliver it to the king. They are called The Ghosts of Farthingale Forest and their reputation has now put a price on their heads. But no one realizes they are only children until one day an old friend stumbles upon their hiding place. I was not aware that this was a young adult book when I picked it. I'm not usually a fan of YA. But this was a nice change from what I've read in the past. The characters were well rounded and interesting. Young readers will be able to relate to the strength that was portrayed in their decisions and mindset. The plot was well done and had the right amounts of suspense, drama, and a touch of romance. The plot was a take on Robin Hood and was set during the medieval times. This was a neat prospective and I enjoyed the setting. I think it fit well into the genre and had the right Christian elements to draw the young readers in. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading YA Christian fiction or about strong young female leaders. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my review.
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More Than Just the Talk: Becoming Your Kids' Go-To Person about Sex
by
Jonathan McKee
timamurrell
, April 03, 2015
Parents use to be able to have "the talk" with their children and leave it at that. But today our children are constantly coming in contact with sex in some aspect or another. With phones, internet, and television being so accessible we, as parents, need to be super vigilant about what our children are coming in contact with. And this means knowing the dangers and being comfortable talking to our kids about them. This author really knew his stuff. He presented facts and statistics in an easy to read and digest manner. The information is often difficult to read, but he did a great job of making it relevant and applicable. I liked how he seemed to touch on every subject a parent might come up against and then gave practical ways to deal with it. His focus was from a Christian stand point and was well rounded and straight forward. This book is about sex, so be prepared. But it is definitely a book that all parents should be reading. I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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Buried Secrets
by
Irene Hannon
timamurrell
, April 01, 2015
Lisa has given up the big life of Chicago to take a job as police chief in smaller town. Finding bones that are years old beneath a tree isn't exactly standard. So county arrives to assist in the form of detective Mac McGregor. They are racing against the clock to not only identify the remains, but find a killer before they strike again. This author never disappoints. Her books have just the right elements of suspense, drama, and a touch of romance. The elements of faith are slightly woven throughout, but are subtle. I enjoyed the interaction between the two main characters. They were both strong people, but didn't overpower each other. I liked how the set up for the next book in the series was just a teaser to make the reader want more. The details to the mystery were well thought out and fit well with the character. There was just the right amount of suspense and the author did a great job of pulling the reader into the story to feel the emotions and tension. Definitely a keeper and I'm looking forward to her next book. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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After a Fashion
by
Jen Turano
timamurrell
, March 31, 2015
Harriet Peabody has dreams of opening a dress shop. But this dress shop is special. She'll be creating original gowns from the cast offs of the rich so that the poor can have something beautiful as well. But she's currently working as a hat maker in the back of a shop. When a job goes wrong and she's fired, she is rescued by the man who was involved in the whole fiasco. Harriet only accepts Oliver's deal because she wants to the money to open her shop. She never dreams of the adventures she and her roommates will encounter because she agreed to pose as Oliver's girlfriend for a few weeks. This was a fun book to read. I finished it quickly, because the plot moved swiftly and didn't stall with descriptions or needless additions. The author made the characters flawed, amusing, and multifaceted. I enjoyed all of the twists and turns that the story took. The secondary characters were engaging as well and I can definitely see them reappearing in the series. I'm not sure if the plot was feasible for that time period, but the story was so fun to read that I didn't really care. Based on this book I will be checking out the other books in the series as they come out. I received this book free of charge from Bethany House and Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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The Song
by
Chris Fabry
timamurrell
, March 27, 2015
Jed adores his father, a famous musician and the one who taught him to play the guitar. His father passes away and Jed falls in love with a beautiful woman, Rose. Later, he writes a song that catapults him into stardom. But he is not able to handle all the stress and nuances of fame and begins to fall. His fall and the story of his redemption are chronicled in this book. I haven't read anything by this author and haven't seen the movie. I was very impressed with the writing style. The author was able to draw out intense emotions and show rather than tell the story. The reader is shown the direction the story is going from the very beginning which is a different style than the typical book where you don't know the outcome. But since the story is based loosely on Solomon then the reader will also know that there is a happy ending. I would not recommend this book for the younger audience, since it does contain references to sex, adultery, drugs, and alcohol. The author brought out insights into marriage and dealing with the stress of this world that makes the reader think about more than just the story. The first few pages of "The Song Couples Devotion" were included in the back. I think the book would be a great compliment to this book. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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Sand in My Sandwich: And Other Motherhood Messes I'm Learning to Love
by
Sarah Parshall Perry
timamurrell
, March 24, 2015
Sarah was an uptight, clean freak lawyer who somehow fell in love with a laid back country boy. She thought she could change him, but she was wrong. When the kids came along, she not only learned to let go, but to love in the chaos. The book chronicles the story of the author as she not only deals with three children, but two of whom are on the autism spectrum. The author tells her story with tongue in cheek humor that every mom will appreciate. I was unable to relate to parts of the book, because I do not have an autistic child. But even if some of the circumstances have changed, we are both still mothers facing the same anxieties, stress, and fears. The author related those with stories and lessons she learned on the same journey of motherhood that I'm on. I would recommend this book for every mother to read, but especially for those who have a child with disabilities. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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From the Start
by
Melissa Tagg
timamurrell
, March 17, 2015
Kate writes screenplays for romantic made-for-TV movies. But she's lost her zest and passion for romance. When a tornado hits her hometown she decides to head home and help with clean up. Maybe this will help her get out of her career slump and find purpose in her life. While there, she sees Colton, her brother's friend. Colton has received an injury that permanently takes him out of professional football. His agent wants him to lay low and find a ghost writer for his book. The two hook up to write Colton's book before Kate heads out to do some grant writing. I've read all of the previous books by this author and enjoyed them. But I think this was her best one yet. The characters had depth and chemistry. The book had some hilarious portions, but there was also some real soul searching and introspection for the couple. The plot was fun, romantic, and filled with that small town feel. The author really captured the essence of small town living. I loved how she brought in the issues of foster care and how the case worker was portrayed. The secondary characters were rich and added to the story. I can see quite a few of them becoming the focus of the next book. I will definitely be continuing this series and can't wait for the next book to come out. I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
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Life Unstuck Peace with Your Past Purpose for Your Present Passion for Your Future
by
Pat Layton
timamurrell
, March 17, 2015
Women tend to be stuck. Stuck in their routines and stuck in their spiritual lives. There are a lot of factors that can cause us to be stuck. So the author has taken an in-depth look at some of these factors and written how to un-stick our lives so we can live life to its fullest potential. If we can become unstuck in life we will behave, think, and react to life differently. I love this cover. It captures the essence of the book while grabbing my attention. The author starts out with a hilarious story about herself and quickly draws the reader in. She then proceeds to get right to the heart of the matter and lays out exactly what being stuck is all about. I loved her writing style, presentation, and personal stories. The book felt like it was written just for me. But I think most women will feel this way as well. It was helpful, insightful, and inspiring. I will definitely be sharing this book with my small group. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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You're Loved No Matter What: Freeing Your Heart from the Need to Be Perfect
by
Holley Gerth
timamurrell
, March 16, 2015
Women tend to feel the need to be perfect. It starts when we are young and are competing for the perfect clothes to fit in and continues when we strive to be the perfect wife, mom, employee, etc. What would happen if we all stopped trying to be perfect and became the person that God wants us to be? The author delves into this concept and uses her own life as an example to show how we can be wonderfully, imperfectly human and still have a happy, Christ-centered life. First, I loved the cover. Second, I loved the inside. The author was able to take a concept with the potential to be boring and make it interesting and doable. She talked from the heart and it showed. Her concepts were right on target. I liked how she presented the material in a way that made it easy to understand and implement. Each chapter ends with questions that further cement the concepts. This would also make the book work well for small group study. I loved this book and intend to share it with my friends. I received this book free of charge from Revel Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Anna's Crossing
by
Suzanne Woods Fisher
timamurrell
, March 05, 2015
Anna begins the journey to America with several fellow Amish. But she doesn't want to go. She's required to go because she is the only one who speaks English and must act as an interpreter. But she's leaving behind her only family, her grandparents. She hopes to find a way to return to them when her duties are finished. But delays, complications, and a carpenter named Bairn seem to get in the way of her dream. I'll be honest and admit that I'm not a huge fan of bonnet fiction. But I have read this author before and enjoyed her. So I thought I'd give this book a chance. I'm very glad that I did. It definitely isn't typical for the genre. The characters had depth and were real. The details painted a picture instead of just telling the story. There was drama, intrigue, and faith. It was an interesting twist on bonnet fiction that I actually enjoyed reading. If you enjoy reading about history or about some of the immigrants to America, you'll enjoy this book. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Worry Less So You Can Live More: Surprising, Simple Ways to Feel More Peace, Joy, and Energy
by
Jane Rubietta
timamurrell
, March 04, 2015
Worries bother a lot of people. So the author has taken this part of her life and broken down how she overcame her worry and became more at peace with herself and God. She gives ideas and tools for banishing the worry and replacing it with more positive thoughts. I tend to be a worrier. So I was really looking forward to this book. The cover is gorgeous and the concept is so needed in today's world. But the execution just wasn't there for me. The author gave some very detailed stories and references to showcase worry. But a lot of them tended to border neurosis (the author's words). She talked a lot about bringing out the inner child that is being smothered by the outer adult so that you can let go of your worries. There weren't as many scripture references to back everything up as I'd expected. So much of it just didn't apply to my situations in life. While it was an entertaining read, I just couldn't find anything that was helpful. I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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Motivate Your Child: A Christian Parent's Guide to Raising Kids Who Do What They Need to Do Without Being Told
by
Scott Turansky
timamurrell
, February 26, 2015
Every parent out there has found themselves frustrated with their child because they've been told to do something and are now needing to be told again or disciplined for disobedience. There are a lot of books out there that deal with different aspects of discipline or tell parents how to talk to children when getting them to obey. But these authors have taken the problem to the root and have written a book that shows the parent how to get the child to obey because it's second nature to them. I've never been more impressed with a parenting book. Examples are given of situations that each parent might face. They then not only describe how the parent handled it or how they recommend handling it, but they also give the reasons behind the instructions. The authors have used Biblical concepts to show how to get a child to listen to their conscience and then make wise life decisions. I liked the way the information was presented, each concept was backed by the Bible, and the instructions were presented in such a way that made them seem doable for me. I would definitely recommend this book to parents. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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Deadly Echoes
by
Nancy Mehl
timamurrell
, February 26, 2015
Sarah's life seems to be almost perfect. She's finally been reunited with her sister that she lost soon after the murder of their parents. She has a great job teaching school in the small town of Sanctuary, and she has wonderful friends who love her. But then her sister is murdered in the same way her parents were murdered years ago and Sarah is thrown into raising her niece and trying to find the killer. This book has some real pros and cons for me. So I thought it would be easier to list them. Pros: The story flowed very quickly. Janet, a secondary character, was a favorite of mine. The small town feel was portrayed nicely. The Amish element was a surprise that I didn't see coming since I hadn't read the first book in the series. The book would work as a stand-alone, although several references were made to the previous story. The faith references were handled nicely without coming across as preachy. Cons: I knew who the "bad guy" was as soon as he was introduced. There wasn't any suspense. Everything played out exactly as I expected. The main character was so naive that she was almost unbelievable. The romance between the couple was almost non-existent. While it was a fun read, it didn't have any weight to it. I liked reading the story, but if you enjoy romantic suspense there are quite a few other stories that are more romantic and suspenseful. I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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How to Catch a Prince
by
Rachel Hauck
timamurrell
, February 23, 2015
Corina fell madly in love. And then her world fell apart. Five years later she's come out of the fog surrounding the deaths of her twin brother and her marriage. But when her ex-husband shows up with news that changes everything she must learn to love well. If you've read my reviews you know that I'm a sucker for a good romance. And this definitely fits the bill. But the author was able to pull so much more into this sweet and heartbreaking romance that I can't just call it a romantic story. She added the trauma of war and touched a bit on what the soldiers face when returning from the battle field. There is a touching conversion scene that is raw and emotional in all of the right ways. She also adds a touch of the supernatural that gives the story just the right touch of whimsy. It's a story about a prince and a princess, but it's also a story about some of the more difficult aspects of love. In true princess form, the author ended the book with a fairytale ending that spoke to the romantic in me. I would definitely recommend not only this book, but the first two as well, if you enjoy romance, faith, true love, and a touch of whimsy. I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
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The Beauty of Grace: Stories of God's Love from Today's Most Popular Writers
by
Camp, Dawn
timamurrell
, February 16, 2015
Our lives are so busy and hectic. We often get so caught up in the busyness of life that we forget to make God a part of that life. We forget that He's there patiently waiting for us. Each story is written by a popular writer. Each writer offers a glimpse into the beauty of grace that our Savior desires for us to experience. Each story brings out a different thought, but all of them will touch your heart. I loved the variety and different "voices" that each chapter brought. Each story touched my heart in some way or another. The cover is beautiful and gives off the feeling of comfort and peace even before the book is opened. I'll be keeping this book to re-read and would definitely recommend it to anyone wanting a calm during the midst of their storm. It would also make a wonderful gift. I received this book free of charge Revel Reads from in exchange for my honest review.
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Waiting for Your Prince A Message for the Young Lady in Waiting
by
Jackie Kendall
timamurrell
, February 16, 2015
Young girls are being bombarded on all sides with messages about their outward beauty, self-worth, and about marriage and love. The author has taken Biblical stories and turned them into messages for the heart for young girls on the cusp of being a teenager. Each chapter focuses on different aspects that girls can take to heart that will help them while they are waiting on their prince to arrive. These lessons are intended to get them ready for their heavenly Prince as well. The author uses scripture liberally and ends each chapter with questions for further reflection and study. The book would work well for an individual or small group of girls studying together. I was very impressed with the large amount of scripture and thought that the author put into the book. The stories and thoughts were interesting and on level with a pre-teen girl. The concepts were not difficult to understand, but provided some food for thought or for further reflection. I also liked the questions at the end of each chapter. I will definitely be keeping this book for my daughter to read and would recommend it to anyone with a young daughter getting ready to hit her pre-teen years. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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Heartfelt Building Relationships Linking the Hearts of Women
by
Joneal Kirby
timamurrell
, February 16, 2015
Women crave personal and deep relationships. But in today's world of social media it is getting harder and harder to find those deep connections that we crave so much. The young women of today are often living far from their families, the very ones who should be teaching them about marriage, mothering, dinner parties, and relationships. Titus 2 instructs the older women to take the younger women and mentor them. The author has taken this much needed concept and created a ministry structured around the Titus verse. Readers will learn the benefits of mentors and mentoring and will learn how to create this group. The stories were taken from women who experienced this group and have been blessed in multiple ways. I enjoyed each of the stories and could definitely see why the author saw the need for this type of ministry. The instructions in the last few chapters were insightful and would be very helpful to anyone wanting to set up this type of ministry in their own home. I would recommend this to anyone who feels the need for deeper connections with other women or who feels the need for a mentor. I received this book free of charge from First Look in exchange for my honest review.
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Where Rivers Part A Texas Gold Novel
by
Kellie Coates Gilbert
timamurrell
, February 13, 2015
Dr. Juliet is quickly making a name for herself in the corporate world. She's in charge of quality control at a plant that provides water to millions of people. But when e coli is traced back to her plant she realizes she's in over her head. She's not exactly getting along with her father and her boyfriend isn't who she thought he was. She needs to quickly figure out who she can trust before she and an entire company are brought to their knees. I read the first book by this author and liked it. So I thought I'd try this one. It's not your typical Christian fiction. So anyone looking for a slightly different feel will really enjoy the plot. It was a little dry for me, though. I just couldn't get interested in the characters. The author did a great job of portraying the drama and tension that goes with this type of plot. I think some of that tension is what made the book less enjoyable for me. The entire book felt stressful. But the visuals were great and the ending was nice and realistic. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Mothering from Scratch Finding the Best Parenting Style for You & Your Family
by
Melinda Means, Kathleen Helgemo
timamurrell
, January 15, 2015
Every single mother is different. Each family is different. Yet so often, as mothers, we find ourselves looking at other moms and judging ourselves. The authors have written a book that helps each mother pinpoint her mothering strengths and use them to create a parenting style that works for her. Using scripture and personal experiences, each author brings her own style and thoughts to give a well rounded look at mothering. Pros: I enjoyed all of the different topics and thoughts that were brought out. The personal stories and experiences were amusing and helped me not feel so alone in some of my mothering snafus. The book covered quite a few different topics and talked about making things work for each mother to fit her style. Cons: The writing was at times heavy and detailed. I almost got lost in the tiny print and multiple details of each chapter. Based on the description, I expected the book to bring out different parenting styles and guide me through picking out what worked for me. Instead it was a vague feeling of the concept of choosing what works for each individual. It just didn't resonate with me enough to want more or to recommend it to my mom friends. I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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Stutter Creek
by
Ann Swann
timamurrell
, January 09, 2015
Beth has been joining her father at the family cabin in Sutter Creek for years. This year she'll be going alone. She's lost her father, her husband, and her daughter almost all at once. Each one is gone for a completely different reason. She thinks she's returning to the place of her favorite memories, but something sinister has followed her to Sutter Creek. The story starts out quickly and keeps the suspense up until the very last page. The story only covers a few days, but doesn't seem short or lacking in details. The characters have depth and authenticity. The story deals with murder and some of the details are very graphic. It fits with the story, but those who can't handle the subject matter need to take note. Since I enjoyed this story, I'll definitely be checking out the other books by this author. I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.
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Secret of Pembrooke Park
by
Julie Klassen
timamurrell
, January 09, 2015
Abigail is the practical daughter who holds the family together. So when a business venture that she recommended to her family falls apart, she feels it her duty to help rescue the family finances. The agent for Pembrooke Park approaches them with a lease offer that is too good to pass up in their current condition. Abigail finds herself alone with the servants as they try to bring the park back to it's former glory. The home has been sitting abandoned for 18 years amidst rumors of ghosts, murder, and treachery. Abigail hears strange sounds in the night, arguments and rumors, and the ramblings of an old woman. Hopefully she can piece together the puzzle before something tragic happens. I loved this book. I've read books by this author before and enjoyed them, but this one is now my favorite. The book is large and could appear daunting. But never once did I feel bogged down in details or slow parts. The story fit together like a puzzle and kept me intrigued. It has elements of romance, history, and suspense. Several times I was surprised by the twists the author took with the plot. The characters fit with the time period and were captivating. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my review.
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Financially Confident Woman: What You Need to Know to Take Charge of Your Money
by
Mary Hunt
timamurrell
, January 06, 2015
Women often feel scared and overwhelmed when it comes to finances. The older generation grew up with the concept of the man taking care of the finances and the woman taking care of the home. Women of the current generation often get caught up in the debt of commercialism. The author fell into both of these categories herself. Once she and her husband realized their predicament they were thousands of dollars in debt. Her books are the result of her research as she dug her way out of debt. The author writes in a very personal and honest style. She begins by discussing some of the concepts and hang ups that women have in regards to fiances. She then has easy to comprehend instructions on how to get a grasp on your money and how to make it work for you. While some of the numbers and instructions seemed a bit dated the concepts are still the same. It's a refreshing look at an age old topic. Definitely a book I would recommend. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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A Most Inconvenient Marriage
by
Regina Jennings
timamurrell
, December 31, 2014
Abigail, a nurse, marries a confederate soldier on his death bed. After she buries him she keeps her promise to go to his home and care for his sister. She also uses her extensive knowledge of horses to keep his farm running. But the entire community is shocked when the man returns home a few months later. If Abigail didn't marry Jeremiah Calhoun, then who was the man she buried several months ago? And what is she supposed to do now? The plot was unique and it was a nice change from the usual. I enjoyed all of the characters and felt the author did a great job of showing their flaws while also making them endearing. The story, while fun, also had an underlying message of forgiveness. The author also brought in some romantic drama, suspense, and a little bit of heartache. It was a really neat story that made me want to check out her other books. I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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Our Children Are Watching: 10 Skills for Leading the Next Generation to Success
by
Collins, Susan Ford
timamurrell
, December 29, 2014
Children watch everything their parents do. And they follow in those giant footsteps. Any parent will tell you that children follow what we do and not what we say. So the author has written a book giving personal experiences, stories, and analogies to guide the parent or person in charge to correctly guide the people in their care. She wanted a book with instructions for those in leadership positions to be able to grasp and implement. The book has three parts. The first part is pointing out the actions of a leader. The second part (the longest section of the book) is detailing the 10 skills for succeeding at leading. Each chapter talks about one skill. The last part talks about how the leader can guide someone into leadership themselves. Each chapter is filled with stories that tie into the skill or thought and help the reader get a clear vision of what is needed. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my review.
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To Everything a Season
by
Lauraine Snelling
timamurrell
, December 15, 2014
The town of Blessing is growing faster than the houses can be built. As the towns people deal with the various issues that come with a rapidly growing town, a prominent family is also growing. Trygve is working on a well drilling crew. But when he feels God calling him to stay home in Blessing he returns to help his family and find his place in the town. He also meets a young woman that captures his heart. This is the first book in this series. Since I haven't read anything by this author I wanted to make sure I started at the beginning. But somehow I still picked up in the middle of a long story. The book begins with a massive family tree for the Bjorklund family. I also read that this is the 3rd Blessing series. So while this is the first book in this series, it isn't the first story about the family or town. While I was completely lost with all of the unfamiliar names and circumstances, I did enjoy the flow of the story. The author weaves a plot with lots of sub plots and extra details to keep the reader engaged. The book brought out several thought provoking issues surrounding Christianity that still pertain to today. The story didn't end, leaving it open for the next book in the series. Someone who enjoys family sagas will love this small town story. Just be sure to start at the very beginning so nothing is missed. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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A Most Inconvenient Marriage
by
Regina Jennings
timamurrell
, December 09, 2014
Abigail, a nurse, marries a confederate soldier on his death bed. After she buries him she keeps her promise to go to his home and care for his sister. She also uses her extensive knowledge of horses to keep his farm running. But the entire community is shocked to find the man return home a few months later. If Abigail didn't marry Jeremiah Calhoun, then who was the man she buried several months ago? And what is she supposed to do now? The plot was unique and it was a nice change from the usual. I enjoyed all of the characters and felt the author did a great job of showing their flaws while also making them endearing. The story, while fun, also had an underlying message of forgiveness. The author also brought in some romantic drama, suspense, and a little bit of heartache. It was a really neat story that made me want to check out her other books. I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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The Generosity Bet: Secrets of Risk, Reward, and Real Joy
by
William High
timamurrell
, November 30, 2014
Generosity can be scary and confusing. There are so many ways and places to be generous. And yet what is the benefit to you? These authors have taken stories and experiences from other people and turned them into a book about how generosity can change lives. It changes the lives of the people who give and the people who receive. And often it changes the lives of the observers as well. Each chapter is about a person who made the sacrifice to give generously and how it changed them. Filled with inspiring quotes, Bible verses, and true life experiences, the stories are uplifting and encouraging. At the end of each chapter is a section called Your Story. It asks questions that helps the reader make the story relatable to them personally. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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Louie's BIG day!
by
Maria I. Morgan
timamurrell
, November 26, 2014
Louie is very nervous. He's been purchased from the hardware store and tomorrow is the first day that he tries cutting grass. He doesn't know if he'll do a good job and he's always had his friends with him. Now he's all alone. But the next day proves that he's great at his job and also has a wonderful surprise. My children enjoyed the story. The illustrations are realistic enough to catch the meaning of the story, but whimsical enough to capture the imagination of the children who are listening. As a parent, my favorite part of the book were the thoughtful questions at the back of the book that allow the readers to dig deeper and learn more about the meaning behind the story. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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The Long Road Home Romance Collection: Four Romances with an Enduring Pioneer Spirit
by
Judi Ann Ehresman
timamurrell
, November 23, 2014
Story 1 - Mandy watches her husband walk away to work on the railroad, wondering if she should have told him she was pregnant. When she gets notice that he was killed in an accident she wonders how she is going to survive. But God sends a run-away slave with a the message of salvation. Deidre saves her financially by helping with all of the work and by helping provide an income. But most importantly she saves her spiritually. Story 2 - Bess grew up in a brothel. But when one of the patrons "finds Jesus" she realizes there might be a way out of her former life. But old thoughts are hard to shake and Bess struggles with the concept of forgiveness and a new life. Story 3 - Deidre ran away from a cruel master who had sold her husband and was getting ready to sell her baby son. She's found a wonderful home with Mandy, but she misses her husband. Will she ever be reunited with him? Story 4 - Frederika wasn't happy about her family leaving Germany. She protests vehemently, but eventually steps up to the plate and takes over when neither of her parents are there to help her. The first three stories are sweet, well written, and romantic. They all tie together to form a nice cohesive story about three woman who overcome difficulties to become strong women in Christ. The fourth story doesn't fit with the first three. The feel of the story is depression, frustration, and confusion. The main character is a bit grating in her immaturity and the romance was super rushed without a romantic feel to it. I'm sure that the author writes a great story. It was just jarring after the first three stories. I would recommend this book for the first three stories alone. I received this book free of charge from Barbour in exchange for my honest review.
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Surprised by Love
by
Julie Lessman
timamurrell
, November 21, 2014
Megan is returning from Paris a completely different woman. She's lost some weight and gain some confidence. But she's hoping that her friendship with her best friend Bram hasn't changed a bit. Bram is shocked when he sees the beautiful woman that Megan has become. His feelings for her are very non-best friend like. But he's made some commitments that might prevent him from following through on his new feelings. I really enjoyed the double romance in this story. The author painted a beautiful visual as she told the story. There were times that I felt a little lost since I was coming into the story without having read the first two books. But instead of frustrating me, it made me want to check out the other books. The story was sweet, had a bit of drama, and had great secondary characters as well. I'll definitely be adding this author to my wishlist. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Trading Secrets
by
Melody Carlson
timamurrell
, November 09, 2014
Micah began writing to Zach when she was in the fifth grade. Because of her name, he assumed she was a boy, and she never corrected him. Now Micah is a senior and the opportunity for them to meet is here. She has to come clean, but she's afraid that it will ruin her friendship. And Zach has become her best friend, the one she shares all of her secrets with. Somehow I missed that this was a young adult. I've read books by Carlson before and remembered enjoying them. This book was sweet and I think will really appeal to a younger generation. It was a quick read with very little drama. The relationship between Zach and is parents was not one that I've seen in the Amish books I've read in the past. It was definitely a different spin on Amish fiction. The book wrapped up neatly, but without a resolution between the friendship of Micah and Zach. Not sure if the author is leaving this open for a sequel or if this is typical of YA. It was a nice book, but did not prompt me to read her other YA books. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Trails & Targets
by
Kelly Eileen Hake
timamurrell
, November 09, 2014
Bea is the oldest of four sisters. It's her job to help her father take care of them since their mother is gone. But her father's idea is to host an afternoon showcasing their talents. This only succeeds in angering the local banker. But when two men, Miles and Greyson, ride through town Bea enlists their help. The men find themselves staying longer than they'd anticipated. Greyson can't help admiring Bea, but he fights his feelings since he knows he's moving on once he's finished helping the family. This was a super fun story. The plot moved along quickly and kept me entertained. The characters were unusual, but very likeable. I especially loved the father and youngest sister. Even though they were secondary characters, the author gave them depth and unique qualities. She also did a great job of setting up the series and leaving the reader wanting more. The romance was sweet, but not over the top. There was more to the story than just the romance, such as drama, small town life, and messages about forgiveness and working together. I look forward to reading the stories about the other three sisters. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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Christmas at Rose Hill Farm: An Amish Love Story
by
Suzanne Woods Fisher
timamurrell
, November 09, 2014
Bess is about to marry her friend Amos. But she's nervous and a little bit afraid. For some reason she can't get her first love Billy out of her mind. But Billy left years ago and she knows he's never coming back. A few weeks before the wedding Bess finds a very old rose bush in the greenhouse. Since she raises roses with her father it's rare that she finds one she doesn't recognize. So her father calls a rose rustler, someone who researches and finds heirloom roses. This man turns out to be her old love Billy. But he makes it very clear he's only here for the rose. Then he's leaving. This was a fun little novella with touches of romance, drama, rose history, and a touch of the super-natural. I felt the author did a great job with character development for a novella. The story flowed well and was entertaining. The super-natural element that I mentioned was nicely done and while I guessed right away, added an interesting component. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Running Lean
by
Diana L. Sharples
timamurrell
, November 09, 2014
Stacey is creative and passionate, in love with her boyfriend Calvin, and thinks she's fat. Calvin loves his motorcycle and his girlfriend Stacey, and is desperately missing his deceased brother. The two of them need each other, but neither one will realize the how far their love and friendship will be tested. The author has taken the delicate subject of anorexia and written it for young adults. The story was full of emotion and drama. The characters seemed to be one dimensional and the story pivoted around the anorexia issue. There were some details that I felt could have been expanded on or where left out, but the author wasn't reaching out to my age group. So perhaps this is something that will not bother young adults. Parents should take the heavy issues of sex, drugs, eating disorders, etc. into consideration when getting this book for their child. They are real issues that teenagers deal with, but might be a bit heavy for some children. All in all, it was a heavy subject with lots of drama, but could be very relatable to teenagers facing these issues. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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365 Moments of Peace for a Woman's Heart: Reflections on God's Gifts of Love, Hope, and Comfort
by
Bethany House
timamurrell
, November 05, 2014
These devotionals are pulled from several previously published books. Each one is short, but packed with peaceful and convicting thoughts. The devotionals begin and end with a scripture. There is also a small written prayer that ties in with the devotional thought. Each day is well written, aesthetically pleasing, and definitely falls into the category of peaceful. I've been blessed by several that I read and some of them presented thoughts on a scripture in a way I'd never looked at it before. The covering is beautiful. This is definitely a book that will be staying with me, but they would make excellent gifts as well. I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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Playing by Heart
by
Anne Mateer
timamurrell
, October 31, 2014
Lula lost her mother when she was young. So when her father finally pays attention to her she soaks up his words. His dream for his youngest daughter is for her to be the first female with a PhD. So Lula changes her flighty personality and goes after her degree in mathematics. When her older sister loses her husband, Lula heads home to help her out temporarily. There she learns that her father's dreams might not be what God has in mind for her. It's not exactly what she wants to hear. I really enjoyed this book. The emotions and conflicts that the characters displayed were very real and relatable. I felt the author pulled from what people during this time period might have been dealing with and wrapped her story around it. This plot had romance, drama, and faith. I'm not a fan of basketball or math, but despite this I enjoyed the story and will definitely read more by this author in the future. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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Brickmaker's Bride
by
Judith Miller
timamurrell
, October 31, 2014
Ewan and his Uncle have immigrated to America to start their own brick company. They end up purchasing one in West Virginia. The former owner had passed away and his wife and daughter can't handle the operations by themselves. The daughter, Laura, agrees to help out until the two men can get the business going. But Uncle Hugh isn't exactly the best business man and almost takes the company down. Ewan and Laura must scramble to save the brick company that they both love. I am always excited and a bit apprehensive to try a new author. The plot was well written and thought out. The characters were relatable and had depth. I liked the imagery and the way the author used the emotions with the characters to tell the story. My negatives would be how quickly Ewan seemed to fall in love with the female protagonist. Several of the secondary characters were cruel, selfish, and annoying. Unfortunately this set the tone for much of the story. I would have preferred to have a lighter tone to a romance. Also the book seemed to have more details than I was use to. This, for me, made the book a bit slow in the beginning. But about half way through the plot picked up, the amount of details lessened, and I was engaged. In summery, I enjoyed this story. I will definitely be checking out other books by this author. I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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Lizzy & Jane
by
Katherine Reay
timamurrell
, October 27, 2014
Elizabeth is a chef with her own restaurant in New York. But customers are dwindling and her cooking has lost its edge. So her boss brings in a celebrity to boost sales and hopefully get Elizabeth to snap out of whatever is bothering her. But when her dad calls and begs her to visit she decides to take a break and go with him to take care of her sister Jane, who has cancer. That decision will change the entire course of not only her life, but the lives of several other people as well. I absolutely loved this book. The plot is very deep and thought provoking, but never once felt heavy. The author wove in thoughts and quotes from a quite a few books. A lot of them are obviously Jane Austen, but most have a food theme that the main character pulls from. The food references were great and added authenticity to the story. The story and characters were deep and moving. I was entertained, but also finished the book with quite a bit to think about. I love how the author is able to write a story that stays with the reader long after the book is put down. What showcases a truly talented author, was the fact that I had nothing in common with either sister or the situations they were going through, and yet I was immersed in the story and fell in love with both of them. They were relatable and likeable, despite their flaws. All of the characters, even the secondary ones, had such depth. Reay is a talented author and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next. I received this book free of charge from Kelley and Hall Publicity in exchange for my honest review.
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You Are Chosen: Inspiration to Reassure Your Soul
by
Darlene Sala
timamurrell
, October 21, 2014
Life can sometimes bring you down. But God wants to fill us with His love and peace. The author has taken 90 verses and written a short devotional to go with them. Each devotional is meant to encourage, inspire, and renew. The thought begins with the Bible verse and then has a little story or thought to tie in with the verse. The author then adds the inspirational connection that will lift you up. First, I loved the cover of the book. The leather cover and flowers are gorgeous and enticed me to pick up the book. The small size makes it easy to slip into my purse for a quick pick-me-up. Each devotional is thoughtfully put together and offers encouragement and refreshment. This would make a perfect gift, although I'll have to purchase another one since I don't intend to part with mine. I received this book free of charge from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
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Deceived
by
Irene Hannon
timamurrell
, October 02, 2014
Kate lost her son and husband three years ago in a boating accident. But the details of the accident don't add up to her. Her husband's body was found three days after the accident, but her son's body was never recovered. Three years later she spots a boy that looks just like she imagined her son would look now. This leads to a visit with a private investigator. Kate's life will never be the same, no matter what his investigation brings up. Several of my friends recommended Hannon, but this was my first chance to read one of her books. I know why she is so highly recommended. The character development is great. The author gave some pretty serious clues to the mysteries right away. But all of the details were still hidden and this is what kept me glued to the book. I liked the subtle romance. It was definitely there, but not over the top for a suspense. There were elements of God woven into the story that gave it an uplifting slant. My only complaint, and it's a tiny one, is that the epilogue seemed just a bit cheesy. I really enjoyed "meeting" a new author and definitely plan to read more of her books. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Fisher of Men
by
Pam Rhodes
timamurrell
, September 25, 2014
Neil felt God calling him to be a priest, to minister to a body of believers. So he arrives in Dunbridge with hope and trepidation. What he finds is a family. He might not be quite the priest that he'd like to be. But his church family will love him through it. Some a bit more than others. This book is like reading from a pastor's diary. There are a ton of details to give the visual for the story. But I had a hard time picturing the setting. There are quite a few characters. The author has done a great job with the character development, but there were so many that I still felt lost. Because this was more of a slow moving narrative of the curate's life, the sub plots are numerous and varied. The main protagonist doesn't really have a plot, except for the mild romance that is thrown in. The story doesn't really end as much as it just stops. The curate is left with a major decision to make and the reader must read the next book before finding out what happens. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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Making Marion Wheres Robin Hood When You Need Him
by
Beth Moran
timamurrell
, September 24, 2014
Marion has come from a horrific childhood and is now on a quest to find answers about her father. She stumbles into a campground and meets Scarlett. Scarlett seems to take in lost and hurting souls. Marion soon finds herself working for Scarlett, living in an rv, and searching the small town for someone who might know her father. This book is written by a British author. So the humor, language, and presentation of religion are not what the typical American Christian fiction reader will expect. There is some language, bedroom scenes, and references to nudity. The references to God are subtle and almost appear to be an after thought. But there is humor, and a strong message of forgiveness. The author has provided interesting and deep characters. The visual imagery is great. The story flowed slowly, but didn't lose my attention. Where there were some pretty serious subjects, the story didn't feel dark and depressive. It reminded me in some ways of the Mitford series with its multiple characters and feeling of family. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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Surviving Henry Adventures in Loving a Canine Catastrophe
by
Erin Taylor Young
timamurrell
, September 14, 2014
Fond memories of a childhood boxer prompted the author to get a boxer for her young boys. What happened next is worthy of a book. Henry wasn't a typical boxer. He wasn't even a typical dog. Through all of the experiences and catastrophes that happen with Henry she learns the true meaning of unconditional love. The author took what could have been just another dog story and injected humor and lessons on unconditional love. It was well written, funny, and endearing. I found myself laughing quite a few times and grimacing in sympathy as well. This is a fun little book that adults and children will both enjoy. I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
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Tried & True
by
Mary Connealy
timamurrell
, September 08, 2014
Kylie and her two sisters fought in the war and then used their service towards getting a homestead. But the wrinkle in their plans? They are doing all of this disguised as men. It might have worked in the war when they were posing as young boys. But now that they are grown women, it's getting harder and harder to accomplish. So when the local land agent, Aaron, finds out that Kylie is a girl, they know they've got a fight on their hands. I had mixed feelings about this book. I enjoy the author's writing style. It's entertaining and humorous. Her characters interact well and I loved the relationship between the sisters. But the romance was a little weak, I felt like the author couldn't decide whether to make one of the ranchers a good guy or bad guy, and the ending was completely off from the rest of the story. It just didn't fit. So while this wouldn't be my favorite of her books, I still like her style and will definitely be reading the next book in the series. I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days: 52 Encouraging Truths to Hold on to
by
Holley Gerth
timamurrell
, September 03, 2014
Some days a girl just needs a spiritual pick-me-up. The author has taken thoughts from the Psalms and written quick, encouraging thoughts to brighten any woman's day. Each devotional starts with a verse from Psalms. The author then shares a relating thought. It ends with a prayer that can be added to, some space for writing, and some more verses from Psalms for further reading. I loved the look and feel of this small book. It's perfect for a quick moment with God. The devotionals are thought provoking, but encouraging. I liked how each one could be tailored to the time I have with the further reading in Psalms. This would make a perfect gift or stocking stuffer. I received this book free of charge from Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
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Bride in Store
by
Melissa Jagears
timamurrell
, September 03, 2014
Eliza is not having a good day. She is a mail-order bride and had decided to meet her future husband early. But the train she is on is robbed and she loses all of her inheritance. It’s the money that she was going to use to invest in her husband’s store. She receives a nice gash to the face as well and inadvertently meets her new associate when he stitches up her face. Her husband, on the other hand, is nowhere to be found. I’ve enjoyed every one of Melissa Jagears books and this one was no exception. I enjoyed the interaction between the couple. The message of grace that is woven throughout the story is prominent without being pushy or preachy. The full of life characters definitely add to the plot. There is heartbreak and sacrifice, but the overall theme is redeeming. If taken to heart, this book can help you grow in your Christian walk as well as entertain you. I can’t wait to read her next book. I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
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