Mystery and Romance -- Whispers in the Reading Room

Shelley Gray has proven herself to be talented in a variety of genres of Christian fiction.  I first became a fan of her Amish stories (still am, by the way). Next I enjoyed her Heart of a Hero western series.  Then she gave us readers the opportunity to visit Chicago during and immediately after the World's Fair in the series that concluded with Whispers in the Reading Room.

Historical details of the era mixed with Shelley's creative storytelling make for a very enjoyable story.  Mystery and romance, along with lots of twists and turns, keep the interest level high to the very end.

The characters in this story come from varied backgrounds but fit together in fascinating ways.  Sebastian in particular is a multi-dimensional character who seems to slide effortlessly from one world to another.  There are familiar "faces" from the earlier books that help tie the series together, but each of the books could work well as a stand-alone.

I recommend Whispers in the Reading Room to fans of good, clean fiction.  Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for providing a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

See what other readers think of the book here.

About the Book:

Just months after the closure of the Chicago World’s Fair, librarian Lydia Bancroft finds herself fascinated by a mysterious dark-haired and dark-eyed patron. He has never given her his name; he actually never speaks to a single person. All she knows about him is that he loves books as much as she does.

Only when he rescues her in the lobby of the Hartman Hotel does she discover that his name is Sebastian Marks. She also discovers that he lives at the top of the prestigious hotel and that most everyone in Chicago is intrigued by him.

Lydia and Sebastian form a fragile friendship, but when she discovers that Mr. Marks isn’t merely a very wealthy gentleman, but also the proprietor of an infamous saloon and gambling club, she is shocked.

Lydia insists on visiting the club one fateful night and suddenly is a suspect to a murder. She must determine who she can trust, who is innocent, and if Sebastian Marks—the man so many people fear—is actually everything her heart believes him to be.

Learn more and purchase a copy.

About the Author:
 
Shelley Gray is the author of The Heart of a Hero series. Her Amish novel (written as Shelley Shepard Gray), “The Protector,” recently made the New York Times best seller list. A native of Texas, she earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Colorado and taught school for ten years. She and her husband have two children and live in Southern Ohio.

Find out more about Shelley at http://www.shelleyshepardgray.com.

Sweet stories for little ones -- Parable Treasury

Parable Treasury is a collection of four stories for young children by the gifted Liz Curtis Higgs.

Each parable is set in a different season of the year and teaches a Biblical principle in words that little ones can relate to.  Even for those too young to fully understand the parable, the bright pictures and simple stories should spark their interest.  Most pages also include a Bible verse (quoted or paraphrased) to help with the application lessons of the parable.

These stories should provide a meaningful way to share bedtime or other quality story time with your children or grandchildren. 

The colorful padded front cover is an added benefit to the quality of the book.

Thanks to BookLook Bloggers for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:

Bestselling favorite Parable books bring fun throughout the year in this new four books in one format.

With more than 1.1 million units sold in the Parable Series, Liz Curtis Higgs has given parents and kids alike beloved parables they can read throughout the year. This adorable compilation, Parable Treasury, allows families to get all their favorite stories in one value-packed book.

For nearly twenty years, Liz Curtis Higgs has made the holidays a little brighter throughout the year with her Parable Series. In a lovely padded hardcover format, the Gold Medallion–winning books from the Parable Series will include:

• The Pumpkin Patch Parable,which focuses on the harvest season and shows that we can let God’s love shine through us
• The Pine Tree Parable,a heartwarming tale of the farmer and his family, who nurture tiny seedlings into fragrant Christmas trees
• The Parable of the Lily, which helps children understand the power of grace and forgiveness and the true meaning of Easter
• The Sunflower Parable, which helps children discover the value of planting seeds, not only in the ground but also in the hearts of those around us

With simplicity and creative storytelling, this is sure to be a family favorite.

About the Author:

Liz Curtis Higgs is an award-winning speaker as well as the author of twenty-eight books, including Bad Girls of the Bible and Thorn in My Heart. Her Parable Series for children has been awarded the ECPA Gold Medallion for Excellence.

Fascinating story spanning centuries and continents -- My Brother's Crown

Mindy Starns Clark and Leslie Gould have previously co-authored several great Amish stories.  Now they have come together again to pen My Brother's Crown, a fascinating story that spans centuries and continents.

Mindy and Leslie have put together an intriguing story that combines historical detail, mystery, faith, loyalty, and romance.  Renee Talbot, a present-day scientist, and Catherine Gillet, a 17th-century Huguenot, are connected by blood and more in this intriguing story.  Alternating between the two time periods, the authors draw on the strength and character of these two women to craft a complex page turner.  Watching the two stories merge closer and closer together provides for a great read for fans of differing interests.  The historical setting has me looking forward to digging further into the persecution and other details and events of the time period.  I am looking forward to more great stories from this writing duo.

Thanks to Harvest House Publishers and the authors for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:

France, 1685. Catherine Gillet knows her brother, Jules, wants to protect her from the sinister threats of the French crown. But Jules is involved in a potentially deadly enterprise, one connected with an encoded document. When his actions put the whole family at risk, will Catherine find a way to save them? 

Virginia, present day. Renee Talbot, a direct descendant of Catherine's, is fascinated by the document that's been part of her family legacy for more than three centuries. Certain its pages hold hidden secrets, she takes a closer look—and makes a shocking discovery. But when memories of a childhood trauma are rekindled, she's forced to seek answers of a different kind. Inspired by the faith and bravery of Catherine, can Renee find the truth and face her deepest fears at last? 

From the authors of the Christy Award-winning The Amish Midwife comes an epic story of two women, centuries apart, each discovering her own hidden bravery, standing for what she believes in, and finding love in unexpected places.

France, 1685. Catherine Gillet knows her brother, Jules, wants to protect her from the sinister threats of the French crown. But Jules is involved in a potentially deadly enterprise, one connected with an encoded document. When his actions put the whole family at risk, will Catherine find a way to save them?
Virginia, present day. Renee Talbot, a direct descendant of Catherine’s, is fascinated by the document that’s been part of her family legacy for more than three centuries. Certain its pages hold hidden secrets, she takes a closer look—and makes a shocking discovery. But when memories of a childhood trauma are rekindled, she’s forced to seek answers of a different kind. Inspired by the faith and bravery of Catherine, can Renee find the truth and face her deepest fears at last?
From the authors of the Christy Award–winning The Amish Midwife comes an epic story of two women, centuries apart, each discovering her own hidden bravery, standing for what she believes in, and finding love in unexpected places.
- See more at: https://www.harvesthousepublishers.com/books/my-brothers-crown#sthash.Lby4EWW0.dpuf

About the Authors: 
 

rance, 1685. Catherine Gillet knows her brother, Jules, wants to protect her from the sinister threats of the French crown. But Jules is involved in a potentially deadly enterprise, one connected with an encoded document. When his actions put the whole family at risk, will Catherine find a way to save them?Virginia, present day. Renee Talbot, a direct descendant of Catherine’s, is fascinated by the document that’s been part of her family legacy for more than three centuries. Certain its pages hold hidden secrets, she takes a closer look—and makes a shocking discovery. But when memories of a childhood trauma are rekindled, she’s forced to seek answers of a different kind. Inspired by the faith and bravery of Catherine, can Renee find the truth and face her deepest fears at last?
From the authors of the Christy Award–winning The Amish Midwife comes an epic story of two women, centuries apart, each discovering her own hidden bravery, standing for what she believes in, and finding love in unexpected places.
- See more at: https://www.harvesthousepublishers.com/books/my-brothers-crown#sthash.Lby4EWW0.dpuf

Mindy Starns Clark is the bestselling author of more than 20 books, both fiction and nonfiction (more than 800,000 sold) including coauthoring the Christy Award–winning The Amish Midwife. Mindy and her husband, John, have two adult children and live in Pennsylvania.  Learn more at www.mindystarnsclark.com

 
Leslie Gould, a former magazine editor, is the author of numerous novels, including Beyond the Blue and Garden of Dreams. She received her master of fine arts degree from Portland State University and lives in Oregon with her husband, Peter, and their four children.  Learn more at www.lesliegould.com
 

France, 1685. Catherine Gillet knows her brother, Jules, wants to protect her from the sinister threats of the French crown. But Jules is involved in a potentially deadly enterprise, one connected with an encoded document. When his actions put the whole family at risk, will Catherine find a way to save them?
Virginia, present day. Renee Talbot, a direct descendant of Catherine’s, is fascinated by the document that’s been part of her family legacy for more than three centuries. Certain its pages hold hidden secrets, she takes a closer look—and makes a shocking discovery. But when memories of a childhood trauma are rekindled, she’s forced to seek answers of a different kind. Inspired by the faith and bravery of Catherine, can Renee find the truth and face her deepest fears at last?
From the authors of the Christy Award–winning The Amish Midwife comes an epic story of two women, centuries apart, each discovering her own hidden bravery, standing for what she believes in, and finding love in unexpected places.
- See more at: https://www.harvesthousepublishers.com/books/my-brothers-crown#sthash.2HnnI4um.dpuf

France, 1685. Catherine Gillet knows her brother, Jules, wants to protect her from the sinister threats of the French crown. But Jules is involved in a potentially deadly enterprise, one connected with an encoded document. When his actions put the whole family at risk, will Catherine find a way to save them?
Virginia, present day. Renee Talbot, a direct descendant of Catherine’s, is fascinated by the document that’s been part of her family legacy for more than three centuries. Certain its pages hold hidden secrets, she takes a closer look—and makes a shocking discovery. But when memories of a childhood trauma are rekindled, she’s forced to seek answers of a different kind. Inspired by the faith and bravery of Catherine, can Renee find the truth and face her deepest fears at last?
From the authors of the Christy Award–winning The Amish Midwife comes an epic story of two women, centuries apart, each discovering her own hidden bravery, standing for what she believes in, and finding love in unexpected places.
- See more at: https://www.harvesthousepublishers.com/books/my-brothers-crown#sthash.2HnnI4um.dpuf

France, 1685. Catherine Gillet knows her brother, Jules, wants to protect her from the sinister threats of the French crown. But Jules is involved in a potentially deadly enterprise, one connected with an encoded document. When his actions put the whole family at risk, will Catherine find a way to save them?
Virginia, present day. Renee Talbot, a direct descendant of Catherine’s, is fascinated by the document that’s been part of her family legacy for more than three centuries. Certain its pages hold hidden secrets, she takes a closer look—and makes a shocking discovery. But when memories of a childhood trauma are rekindled, she’s forced to seek answers of a different kind. Inspired by the faith and bravery of Catherine, can Renee find the truth and face her deepest fears at last?
From the authors of the Christy Award–winning The Amish Midwife comes an epic story of two women, centuries apart, each discovering her own hidden bravery, standing for what she believes in, and finding love in unexpected places.
- See more at: https://www.harvesthousepublishers.com/books/my-brothers-crown#sthash.2HnnI4um.dpuf

France, 1685. Catherine Gillet knows her brother, Jules, wants to protect her from the sinister threats of the French crown. But Jules is involved in a potentially deadly enterprise, one connected with an encoded document. When his actions put the whole family at risk, will Catherine find a way to save them?
Virginia, present day. Renee Talbot, a direct descendant of Catherine’s, is fascinated by the document that’s been part of her family legacy for more than three centuries. Certain its pages hold hidden secrets, she takes a closer look—and makes a shocking discovery. But when memories of a childhood trauma are rekindled, she’s forced to seek answers of a different kind. Inspired by the faith and bravery of Catherine, can Renee find the truth and face her deepest fears at last?
From the authors of the Christy Award–winning The Amish Midwife comes an epic story of two women, centuries apart, each discovering her own hidden bravery, standing for what she believes in, and finding love in unexpected places.
- See more at: https://www.harvesthousepublishers.com/books/my-brothers-crown#sthash.2HnnI4um.dpuf

France, 1685. Catherine Gillet knows her brother, Jules, wants to protect her from the sinister threats of the French crown. But Jules is involved in a potentially deadly enterprise, one connected with an encoded document. When his actions put the whole family at risk, will Catherine find a way to save them?
Virginia, present day. Renee Talbot, a direct descendant of Catherine’s, is fascinated by the document that’s been part of her family legacy for more than three centuries. Certain its pages hold hidden secrets, she takes a closer look—and makes a shocking discovery. But when memories of a childhood trauma are rekindled, she’s forced to seek answers of a different kind. Inspired by the faith and bravery of Catherine, can Renee find the truth and face her deepest fears at last?
From the authors of the Christy Award–winning The Amish Midwife comes an epic story of two women, centuries apart, each discovering her own hidden bravery, standing for what she believes in, and finding love in unexpected places.
- See more at: https://www.harvesthousepublishers.com/books/my-brothers-crown#sthash.2HnnI4um.dpuf

France, 1685. Catherine Gillet knows her brother, Jules, wants to protect her from the sinister threats of the French crown. But Jules is involved in a potentially deadly enterprise, one connected with an encoded document. When his actions put the whole family at risk, will Catherine find a way to save them?
Virginia, present day. Renee Talbot, a direct descendant of Catherine’s, is fascinated by the document that’s been part of her family legacy for more than three centuries. Certain its pages hold hidden secrets, she takes a closer look—and makes a shocking discovery. But when memories of a childhood trauma are rekindled, she’s forced to seek answers of a different kind. Inspired by the faith and bravery of Catherine, can Renee find the truth and face her deepest fears at last?
From the authors of the Christy Award–winning The Amish Midwife comes an epic story of two women, centuries apart, each discovering her own hidden bravery, standing for what she believes in, and finding love in unexpected places.
- See more at: https://www.harvesthousepublishers.com/books/my-brothers-crown#sthash.2HnnI4um.dpuf

France, 1685. Catherine Gillet knows her brother, Jules, wants to protect her from the sinister threats of the French crown. But Jules is involved in a potentially deadly enterprise, one connected with an encoded document. When his actions put the whole family at risk, will Catherine find a way to save them?
Virginia, present day. Renee Talbot, a direct descendant of Catherine’s, is fascinated by the document that’s been part of her family legacy for more than three centuries. Certain its pages hold hidden secrets, she takes a closer look—and makes a shocking discovery. But when memories of a childhood trauma are rekindled, she’s forced to seek answers of a different kind. Inspired by the faith and bravery of Catherine, can Renee find the truth and face her deepest fears at last?
From the authors of the Christy Award–winning The Amish Midwife comes an epic story of two women, centuries apart, each discovering her own hidden bravery, standing for what she believes in, and finding love in unexpected places.
- See more at: https://www.harvesthousepublishers.com/books/my-brothers-crown#sthash.2HnnI4um.dpuf

Complex Amish characters -- A Reluctant Bride

A Reluctant Bride is Kathleen Fuller's best yet.  This Amish story has complex characters who are thrown together in unexpected ways that provide an intriguing story.

Sadie and Aden both harbor deep hurts and secrets that make their individual lives difficult enough on their own.  But when they are suddenly thrown together out of necessity, they have to make choices about how much to share in order to begin healing.

Kathleen did an awesome job of crafting these and other characters in ways that provide a very engaging story.  Some of the turns in the plot were expected, but others caught me off-guard, one element of great stories.  She brought in several tragic and difficult topics and allowed her characters to deal with them in emotion-provoking ways.  I alternated between cheering the characters on and crying with them as they struggled with their hurts and fears.

Fans of great Amish fiction should thoroughly enjoy A Reluctant Bride.  Thanks to Kathleen for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:

She never wanted to marry. He hopes to make amends for past wrongs. Can love find a way to heal both of their hearts?

Sadie Schrock swore she would never marry. All of her other Amish friends could court and marry—she was content to manage the family business and eventually take it over when her parents are ready to retire. But all of that changes when a reckless driver kills both of her parents and seriously injures her younger sister. With mounting hospital bills adding to the pile of debt her parents left behind, Sadie is left with no choice: she must marry. And not just any man—the man who saw her at her weakest and walked away.

Aden knows what his brother did to Sadie years ago was inexcusable. And every day since that incident, Aden has lived with the guilt for not intervening sooner. When he is faced with the chance to protect Sadie once again, he can’t let her down—even if it means living with the scorn of the woman he loves for the rest of his life.

Working alongside Aden at the store, Sadie realizes he isn’t the same boy who once betrayed her. Just when Sadie starts to let her guard down and perhaps develop feelings for her new husband, dangerous secrets are revealed. Now everything Sadie has worked so hard to protect is threatened, and she must find a way to save her family—and herself.

About the Author:

Kathleen Fuller is the author of several bestselling novels, including A Man of His Wordand Treasuring Emma, as well as a middle-grade Amish series, the Mysteries of Middlefield. Visit her online at www.kathleenfuller.com, Twitter: @TheKatJam, and Facebook: Kathleen Fuller. 

A great Christmas story -- An Endless Christmas

I'm a sucker for sweet, sappy Hallmark Christmas movies where everyone celebrates Christmas, finds true love and meaning for the holiday, and lives happily ever after.

BUT . . . I'm even more of a fan of great Christmas stories with some of the same endearing elements but on a deeper level and with some all-important truths thrown into the mix.  Cynthia Ruchti's An Endless Christmas definitely fits that description! 

A story that starts with a rejection to a beautifully romantic Christmas-time proposal certainly has room to grow, and this one does just that.  Katie and Micah are both delightful characters who are great to get to know, even as they deal with the issues that seem to keep them apart.  And what can I say about Grandma Dodie and Grandpa Wilson -- such special people at the helm of a loving family, willing to help those they love, even by sharing moments that show them to be less perfect than they might appear.

Elements of pain, love, forgiveness (of self and others), grace, and fun filled this story and brought tears to my eyes as I read.  One note of warning:  DO NOT start this short book unless you have a block of time to read the entire story.  Once you've read the first page, you will not want to put it down, even after you've finished the last page!

Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

See what other readers think about the book here.

About the book:

Too many people, too much snow, and too little room should be a recipe for disaster.

Christmas takes a very different turn when the guests of honor break up instead of announcing their engagement. Trapped with his family, they learn that love looks different than either imagined. Both in their eighties, Dodie and Wilson Binder celebrate every Christmas as if it were their last. This year, their grandson Micah is planning to ask his girlfriend, Katie, to marry him so they can celebrate with the whole family. But things go very wrong when she says, "no." Now they are stuck. Too many people, too much snow, and too little room should be a recipe for disaster. But sometimes too much is just enough. Especially when it's Christmas.

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1PmF69N

About the author:

Drawing from 33 years of on-air radio ministry, Cynthia Ruchti tells stories of hope-that-glows-in-the-dark through her novels and novellas, nonfiction books and devotionals, and speaking for women's and writers' events. Her books have been recognized by Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Awards, Selah Awards, the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, Christian Retailing's BEST Awards, and Carol Award nominations, among other honors, including a Family Fiction Readers' Choice Award. She and her plot-tweaking husband live in Pittsville, Wisconsin, not far from their three children and five grandchildren.

Connect with Cynthia: website, Twitter, Facebook

There's no getting out of Christmas now, despite Katie rejecting Micah's marriage proposal. Cozy up this holiday season with Cynthia Ruchti's new novella, An Endless Christmas. The Binder family celebrates every Christmas as if it were their last. Too many people, too much snow, and too little room should be a recipe for disaster. But sometimes too much is just enough. Especially when it’s Christmas.

Celebrate the holidays with Cynthia and An Endless Christmas by entering her $100 Target gift card giveaway!

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of An Endless Christmas
• A $100 gift card to Target

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 30th. The winner will be announced December 1st on Cynthia's blog.

A Sweet Way to Share God's Story -- Precious Moments 5-Minute Bedtime Treasury

Children are never too young to hear God' story on their level.  Precious Moments 5-Minute Bedtime Treasury is a great way to share some of that story with little ones.

The stories are divided into three sections:  God is Trustworthy (stories from the Old Testament), God is Good (truths from Psalms, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes), and God Is Love (stories from the New Testament).  These hit a few of the highlights of Bible stories that can introduce or review part of God's Word in words that young children can understand.  Reading the stories with a child or grandchild would provide special moments at bedtime or anytime.

Of course, the book is filled with delightful Precious Moments art.  There are also sections that allow the book to be personalized, including a family tree, an "All About Me" page, and prayers for and by the little "reader."  The book is a high-quality piece and includes a beautiful padded cover.  It should be a lasting treasure for years and could be passed on to the next generation.

This book would make a great gift for the special children or grandchildren in your life.

Thanks to BookLook Bloggers for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:

Create a Bedtime Tradition in Just 5 Minutes.

Delight your little ones with these sweet Precious Moments® characters as you share beloved Bible stories and comforting bedtime scriptures with them.

The five-minute format helps parents create a meaningful bedtime. With paraphrased stories from the International Children’s Bible®, you’ll nurture a love for God’s Word.

Take five minutes before bed to create a special connection with your precious child.

About Precious Moments

Since 1978, Precious Moments has grown into an evergreen brand recognized worldwide, with more than 12.5 million books and bibles sold through Thomas Nelson.

A great read for kids and adults -- Prayers that Changed History

Tricia Goyer shares her passion about the value of prayer in Prayers that Changed History.  Although the book is aimed at young readers, it contains interesting information and valuable insights for adults as well.

Tricia has compiled stories of 25 people whose lives and prayers played important roles in history.  Along with each account, she also shares a Biblical example of someone who  influenced their world through prayer.

This book is interesting and inspiring just as a simple read.  But as I read through the stories, I could see its value as a starting point for something much more.  The introduction to each historical character could be a catalyst for further study into the person and events surrounding their story of prayer.  This could be a great way for parents and children to learn together history that might not appear in

typical history textbooks.  It also helps bring to life the stories of Biblical characters and may encourage children to want to learn more from God's Word.

I recommend Prayers that Changed History to readers young and old who would enjoy being inspired and challenged to learn from and participate in the important practice of prayer.

Thanks to BookLook Bloggers for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

About the book:

One prayer can change everything, says bestselling author Tricia Goyer in Prayers That Changed History.

Martin Luther. Sojourner Truth. Helen Keller. St. Patrick. We read their stories, and of other people like them, in history books and hear about the amazing things they did to change the world. But one part of the story is often left out: Each one of them wouldn’t have accomplished what they did without prayer.

In Prayers That Changed History, the stories of twenty-five notable people are presented along with how prayer changed their lives and changed history. Following each historical example is a biblical story that ties to that person’s life and actions, as well as ways you can use the power of prayer in your life as well. Because God isn’t done changing the world yet, and he would love to use you to make history.

About the author:

Tricia Goyer is a busy mom of ten, grandmother of two, and wife to John. Somewhere around the hustle and bustle of family life, she manages to find the time to write fictional tales delighting and entertaining readers and non-fiction titles offering encouragement and hope. A bestselling author, Tricia has published more than fifty books to date and has written more than 500 articles. She is a two-time Carol Award winner, as well as a Christy and ECPA Award nominee. In 2010, she was selected as one of the Top 20 Moms to Follow on Twitter by SheKnows.com. Tricia is also on the blogging team at TheBetterMom.com and other homeschooling and Christian sites. In addition to her roles as mom, wife and author, Tricia volunteers around her community and mentors teen moms. She is the founder of Hope Pregnancy Ministries in Northwestern Montana, and she currently leads a Teen MOPS Group in Little Rock, AR. Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com.

"Everyone's journey begins somewhere" -- The Imposter (UPDATED POST WITH GIVEAWAY)

(Read to the end of the post for a giveaway.  Hurry, it's only available for a few more days!)

"Everyone's journey begins somewhere" -- just one of the words of wisdom from a minister in The Imposter, Suzanne Woods Fisher's newest book.  This visit back to Stoney Ridge just may be her best story yet!

The Imposter definitely ranks high among the excellent Amish stories I have enjoyed reading over the past 20 years.  The characters come off the page as you join them through their joys and struggles . . . and there is an abundance of both.  Their stories keep the interest level high as they learn to put the past behind and move on to new relationships and new experiences.

Suzanne has crafted a tale that is both inspiring and entertaining.  The conclusion of the story offers hope and promise . . . and it leaves plenty of questions to be answered as the series continues. I highly recommend this story to fans of great Amish fiction and anxiously await the next installment.

Thanks to Revell Publishing for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

About the book:

A heart once deceived should not be easily fooled again . . .

Katrina Stoltzfus thought she had life and love all figured out: she was going to marry John and live happily ever after. But as her plans crumble before her eyes, she struggles to face an uncertain future. When a widow asks for help starting a new business, Katrina quickly agrees. She needs time to heal her broken heart, to untangle her messy life, to find a purpose.

What she doesn't need is attention from Andy Miller, a farmhand who arrives at the widow's farm just when help is most needed--and who always seems to say the right thing and be in the right place, at the right time. Is Andy for real or too good to be true? She's been deceived once before, and she isn't planning on experiencing it again.

Bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher invites you back to Stoney Ridge for a tale of love, uncertainty, and trusting God to write your story.

You can buy the book here.

About the author:

Suzanne Woods Fisher is the bestselling author of The Letters, The Calling, the Lancaster County Secrets series, and the Stoney Ridge Seasons series, as well as nonfiction books about the Amish, including Amish Peace. She is also the coauthor of an Amish children's series, The Adventures of Lily Lapp. Suzanne is a Carol Award winner for The Search, a Carol Award finalist for The Choice, and a Christy Award finalist for The Waiting. She is also a columnist for Christian Post and Cooking & Such magazines. She lives in California. Learn more at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com and connect with Suzanne on Twitter @suzannewfisher.


Suzanne is graciously giving away a Kindle 7.  Click here to enter.

Travels with God -- Signs in Life

In her second book, Signs in Life, Deanna Nowadnick shares lessons from her day-to-day travels with God.  She uses the idea of road signs to point out warnings and instructions -- some of which she learned from by obeying and some (the hard way) by ignoring.  She also brings those lessons around to match up with important truths Moses and the Israelites encountered on their travels through the wilderness.

Deanna has a very personable style of writing, one where she shares openly and honestly in the form of friendly conversation.  She gets right to the "heart of the matter" without being forceful or "preachy."  Her descriptions of her own experiences provide encouragement for her readers to look for God's guiding road signs as we make our individual journeys.

Thank you, Deanna, for the reminders to slow down and follow God's direction.

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.

A second chance at love -- When Love Returns

I've said it before, and it's true once again -- I have never been disappointed with a Kim Vogel Sawyer story.  When Love Returns is an excellent conclusion to her Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy.

Kim tells a story that is entertaining to read, while at the same time is filled with lessons on grace, love, and forgiveness.  She creates characters who face real issues that don't always have easy answers, but they find ways to deal with those issues with faith and hope.  As always, I closed the book with a sense of satisfaction and encouragement. I highly recommend When Love Returns to anyone who appreciates great Christian fiction. 

Thanks to Kim and her publisher for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:

It wasn’t easy to move back to the Old Order Mennonite community from which quiet, responsible Suzanne Zimmerman was shamefully sent away as a pregnant teen. Returning twenty years later to take care of her mother, Suzanne and Alexa—the daughter she raised as her own—have spent months rebuilding relationships with her family.

Now with the upcoming wedding of their biological daughter, Suzanne and Paul find themselves drawn to one another once again—but with new challenges to face. They have been single parents with painful pasts. Can Paul and Suzanne find the strength to rebuild the loving relationship that was torn apart by their teen pregnancy so long ago?

Suzanne must also let go of Alexa as she heads back to Indianapolis to visit friends–and as her chance to find her birth parents. Leaving the bed-and-breakfast in Suzanne’s apprehensive hands, Alexa embarks on a journey that will certainly change her life completely. Can mother and daughter trust God to restore all things in His timing?

About the Author:

Kim Vogel Sawyer is a best-selling, award-winning author highly acclaimed for her gentle stories of hope. More than one million copies of her books are currently in print. She lives in central Kansas where she and her retired military husband, Don, enjoy spoiling their ten granddarlings.

Learn more about Kim at her website http://kimvogelsawyer.com or on Facebook. 

The best matchmaking story yet! -- Huckleberry Hearts

Update:  Check out the giveaway at the end of this post.

Jennifer Beckstrand's Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series has been an absolute delight to read.  As each book in the series has come out, they have gotten better and better -- and she has really outdone herself with Huckleberry Hearts!

As usual, Annie and Felty are scheming to find a match for one of their grandchildren.  This time it's Cassie, who made the decision a few years earlier to leave her Amish life and get a college education.  She's back for a visit and is torn between her Amish values and her English plans.  Her conflict grows with the appearance of Dr. Zach Reynolds, someone Cassie has encountered before under not so pleasant circumstances.

Jennifer has put together an awesome story that made me laugh and made me cry.  Her writing style brings the characters to life in a way that invites you in and encourages you to stay for a nice, long visit. There are tender moments, hilarious moments, and crises of faith that bring up very real, very difficult questions.

Jennifer says that she's leaving Huckleberry Hill and heading down the road for a new series that begins next year.  I guess we can only hope that sometime she'll find a way to let us check back in on the Helmuths and their ever growing family.

Thanks to Jennifer and her publisher for providing a copy of Huckleberry Hearts in exchange for my honest review.

Buy the book here.

About the Book:

Though Cassie Coblenz left her Amish community to go to college, Mammi and Dawdi’s farm will always feel like home. It’s the ideal place for an extended study break—at least until her grandmother’s handsome Englisch doctor becomes a regular distraction. Zach Reynolds is the kind of heartbreaker Cassie has learned to avoid, no matter how charming he may be.

Unlike every woman Zach has met in recent years, Cassie doesn’t fall at his feet. Strong, generous, beautiful within and without—she’s everything he could want. Yet the gulf between them deepens when a tragedy shakes his faith. Now the good doctor has one goal—to become a man who could be worthy of Cassie’s love.

About the Author: 

Jennifer Beckstrand is the bestselling author of The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series set in beautiful northern Wisconsin: Huckleberry Hill, Huckleberry Summer, Huckleberry Christmas, Huckleberry Spring, and Huckleberry Harvest. Jennifer has always been drawn to the strong faith and the enduring family ties of the Plain people and loves writing about the antics of Anna and Felty Helmuth, the two scheming Amish grandparents who try to help their grandchildren find suitable mates in Huckleberry Hill. Who would ever suspect two elderly Amish folks of mischief?

Jennifer has a degree in mathematics, which comes in handy when one of her six children needs help with algebra. After twenty-five years of being a chauffeur, cook, maid, and nurse, she embarked on a writing career. Jennifer is a member of Romance Writers of America and American Christian Fiction Writers and is represented by Nicole Resciniti of The Seymour Agency.
She and her husband have been married for thirty years, and she has four daughters, two sons, and three adorable grandsons, whom she spoils rotten.
Find out more about Jennifer and her books:

jenniferbeckstrand.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenniferbeckstrandfans

Twitter: @JenniferBeckst1

 
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Wrapping up the seasons in Willow Ridge -- The Christmas Cradle

Here's the thing about a great conclusion to a great series:  it's kind of a love/hate relationship.  I can't wait to read the final book because I'm anxious to see how things wrap up.  But I hate to read the final book because, well, it's the last chance to visit the place and the people I've gotten to know and love. That's exactly how I felt about reading Charlotte Hubbard's The Christmas Cradle.

I feel like I have become personally involved with Miriam, Ben, and their family and friends in Willow Ridge through the Seasons of the Heart series.  Charlotte has done an awesome job of creating a fictional town where her readers could imagine visiting -- or even living -- and people who would be great friends.  As in the previous books in the series, The Christmas Cradle is filled with joys and heartaches and lots of opportunities for love, faith, grace, and forgiveness.

This may be the only Amish series I've ever read where I just couldn't wait to see how someone gets what's coming to him, but each story had me anticipating how in the world Hiram Knepp would finally get his due.  My lips are sealed -- not even a hint at how it happens -- but Charlotte has masterfully crafted that into the story in a way that showcases real strength in some of her characters.  You will just have to read the book to see the resolution for yourself.

I am glad to know that Charlotte has a "spin-off" of the series on its way.  So just maybe we will get to re-visit some old friends after all.

Thanks to Charlotte and her publisher for providing a copy of The Christmas Cradle in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:

For the peaceful town of Willow Ridge, November presents an early holiday surprise. Stranded in the snow, 18-year-old Lena Esh and her boyfriend Josiah Witmer need more than a place to stay for the night. Lena defied her strict family and their judgmental beliefs to run away with Josiah and have his baby. But she’s starting to wonder if he can prove as responsible as he is passionate. And she isn’t sure how—or if—they can ever find a place to truly call home.

Expecting their own miracle baby, Miriam and Ben Hooley rally the town to help the young couple, and Lena draws strength from their unexpected support. Though trouble may come calling, in this season of joyous rebirth, a little child will lead them. And two couples will see their dreams of forever family come true…
 
**********************************************

You can read an excerpt from The Christmas Cradle here.

About the Author: 

Drawing upon her experiences in Jamesport, the largest Old Order Amish community west of the Mississippi, longtime Missourian Charlotte Hubbard (a.k.a. Naomi King) writes of simpler times and a faith-based lifestyle in her new Seasons of the Heart series. Like her heroine, Miriam Lantz, Charlotte considers it her personal mission to feed people—to share hearth and home. Faith and family, farming and food preservation are hallmarks of her lifestyle, and the foundation of her earlier Angels of Mercy series. She’s a deacon, a dedicated church musician and choir member, and when she’s not writing, she loves to try new recipes, crochet, and sew. Charlotte now lives in Minnesota with her husband and their border collie.

Charlotte will be awarding $20 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour, and a $25 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn host.  Follow the tour and comment often to increase your chances of winning.

Find out more about the tour here.


Enter to win a $20 Amazon/BN gift card! - a Rafflecopter giveaway 

Enjoyable continuing story -- The Gift

Wanda Brunstetter continues her Prairie State Friends series with The Gift. She once again takes her readers to Arthur, Illinois, to re-visit friends first introduced in The Decision.

The story picks up from the first book, with several characters returning in continuing relationships.  The story has an engaging mix of hope, joy, promise and hurt, despair, and struggle.  There are twists and turns that kept me well involved in the flow of the story.  I also learned some interesting things about widely varying topics like reflexology and hummingbirds.

Fans of good Amish fiction should enjoy this read by one of the premier authors in the genre. There are enough loose ends left in the story to make me anxious to see how they work out in the final installment of the trilogy -- The Revelation, scheduled for release next February.

Thanks to Wanda and her publisher for providing a copy of The Gift in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:

Follow the heart-wrenching story of Adam Beachy, whose mother walked out on him and his family—and away from the Amish faith. Now he balks at the idea of ever marrying and having a family of his own. But when tragedy strikes, Adam is suddenly a father figure to his three nieces and finds himself needing a wife. Despite their differences over her practice of reflexology, Leah Mast seems the best option to fill that role. Can they make it work in a modern-day marriage of convenience?





About the Author:

New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter and her husband live in Washington State but take every opportunity to visit friends in  Amish settlements throughout the States.

Fascinating Story -- The Plain Choice

Before reading The Plain Choice, I had gotten to know quite a bit about Sherry Gore through social media and glimpses of her Plain life that she shared in her cookbooks.  Her faith and relentless spirit through difficulties shine through in any contact with her.  But I knew little of the detail of her life's choices until reading this fascinating telling of her story.

Sherry has successfully done what relatively few people have -- moving from life in the modern "English" world to becoming fully assimilated into an Amish life.  Her move was not motivated by some fascination or curiosity of a different lifestyle.  Rather, Sherry became convicted of the type of life she believed God intended for her to live and found that the
Amish church and community was the environment in which to life out those convictions.

As all followers of God's way for their lives find, making the right choice does not guarantee an easy life, free from problems.  What it did provide for Sherry, though, was a place of belonging and peace that comes from following God's direction.

Although most of us who read this story will not find ourselves making the same choices as Sherry's, by reading her story we can certainly be inspired to find our own place in life.

Anyone with an interest in things Amish -- as well as those who have no exposure to this way of life -- should enjoy this story and find it to be fascinating and motivational.

Thanks to BookLook Bloggers for providing a copy of The Plain Choice in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:

Raised in a broken family and emotionally overlooked, Sherry Gore grew up without a solid foundation, a prisoner of her own poor choices, and at times without hope.  A series of terrible mistakes left her feeling wrecked and alone and a sudden tragedy threw Sherry into an emotional tailspin too powerful to escape.

Sherry hangs by a thread, unable to see how she can go on living, until it happens: on a morning of no particular significance, she walks into a church and BAM the truth of Jesus’ forgiving love shatters her world and cleaves her life in two:  She goes to bed stunned; she wakes up a Christian.

Unwilling to return to the darkness of her former life, Sherry attacks her faith head on.  Soon the life Sherry Gore remakes for herself and her children as she seeks to follow the teachings of the Bible features head coverings, simple dress, and a focus on Jesus Christ.  Only then does she realize, in a fit of excitement, that there are others like her.  They are called Amish and Mennonite, and she realizes she has found her people.

The plain choice that Sherry makes is not easy – and life still brings unexpected pain and heartache - but it changes everything for her, as she becomes one of the few people on earth to have successfully joined the Amish from the outside.

She has found her place. And her story proves that one can return from the darkest depths to the purest light with the power of God.

About the Author:

Sherry Gore is the the author of two cookbooks, "Simply Delicious Amish Cooking" and "Me, Myself and Pie" and co-author of the novel "Made with Love.” She is also a weekly scribe for the national edition of the Amish newspaper, The Budget, established in 1890. The National Geographic Channel featured Sherry prominently their documentary series, Amish: Out of Order. Sherry's culinary adventures have been seen on NBC Daytime, the Today Show, Mr. Food Test Kitchen and more. Sherry is a year-round resident of beautiful, sun-kissed Sarasota, Florida, the vacation paradise of the Plain People. She has three children and is a member of a Beachy Amish Mennonite church. When not spending time with her family, writing, or eating, Sherry is a cooking show host, and an official pie contest judge.

Interesting Lessons -- It's Good to be Queen

Liz Curtis Higgs has a special knack for taking information about Biblical characters, adding her own flair to their story, and finding relevant lessons for today.  That is what she has done once again in her story of the Queen of Sheba -- It's Good to Be Queen.

There is actually very little information given in the Bible about this interesting queen.  But she has been the subject of film and print accounts, particularly those filled with speculation about any supposed relationship with King Solomon.  Liz finds nothing to suggest any intimate relationship between the two members of royalty but finds seeds for lessons to share with contemporary women.

In addition to laying out principles that could easily be applied to modern-day living, Liz shares her own stories as well as many gleaned from answers to questions she asked of her online readers.  In some places, it seems she relies heavily on those stories; in others she adds much to Biblical details of the Queen of Sheba's visit and what she learned from Solomon.  I did not find this book as enlightening as some of Liz's others.  All in all, though, she did a good job of engaging the reader with her unique teaching style.

Thanks to Blogging for Books for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

About the Book:

Sheba Journeyed Across the Desert with a Caravan of Riches,
 Only to Find the Greatest Treasure of Them All.  So Can You.

When it comes to famous queens of the Bible, we know the good one, Queen Esther, and the bad one, Queen Jezebel. Now meet the wise one, the queen of Sheba, who traveled to Jerusalem to test the mind and heart of a king.

Her quest for wisdom will surprise you, challenge you, inspire you, change you. This wealthy royal from antiquity will show you how to live boldly, seek after truth, ask the right questions, encourage others, receive graciously, and honor the Lord above all.

Shedding new light on this ancient biblical role model, Liz Curtis Higgs unveils timeless wisdom for all who aspire to please the king of Kings. - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781400070039#sthash.eMc1FXQf.dpuf

When it comes to famous queens of the Bible, we know the good one, Queen Esther, and the bad one, Queen Jezebel. Now meet the wise one, the queen of Sheba, who traveled to Jerusalem to test the mind and heart of a king. - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781400070039#sthash.eMc1FXQf.dpuf

When it comes to famous queens of the Bible, we know the good one, Queen Esther, and the bad one, Queen Jezebel. Now meet the wise one, the queen of Sheba, who traveled to Jerusalem to test the mind and heart of a king.

Her quest for wisdom will surprise you, challenge you, inspire you, change you. This wealthy royal from antiquity will show you how to live boldly, seek after truth, ask the right questions, encourage others, receive graciously, and honor the Lord above all.

Shedding new light on this ancient biblical role model, Liz Curtis Higgs unveils timeless wisdom for all who aspire to please the king of Kings. - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781400070039#sthash.eMc1FXQf.dpuf

Sheba Journeyed Across the Desert with a Caravan of Riches,
 Only to Find the Greatest Treasure of Them All.  So Can You.
When it comes to famous queens of the Bible, we know the good one, Queen Esther, and the bad one, Queen Jezebel. Now meet the wise one, the queen of Sheba, who traveled to Jerusalem to test the mind and heart of a king.

Her quest for wisdom will surprise you, challenge you, inspire you, change you. This wealthy royal from antiquity will show you how to live boldly, seek after truth, ask the right questions, encourage others, receive graciously, and honor the Lord above all.

Shedding new light on this ancient biblical role model, Liz Curtis Higgs unveils timeless wisdom for all who aspire to please the king of Kings. - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781400070039#sthash.eMc1FXQf.dpuf

Sheba Journeyed Across the Desert with a Caravan of Riches,
 Only to Find the Greatest Treasure of Them All.  So Can You.
When it comes to famous queens of the Bible, we know the good one, Queen Esther, and the bad one, Queen Jezebel. Now meet the wise one, the queen of Sheba, who traveled to Jerusalem to test the mind and heart of a king.

Her quest for wisdom will surprise you, challenge you, inspire you, change you. This wealthy royal from antiquity will show you how to live boldly, seek after truth, ask the right questions, encourage others, receive graciously, and honor the Lord above all.

Shedding new light on this ancient biblical role model, Liz Curtis Higgs unveils timeless wisdom for all who aspire to please the king of Kings. - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781400070039#sthash.eMc1FXQf.dpuf

Sheba Journeyed Across the Desert with a Caravan of Riches,
 Only to Find the Greatest Treasure of Them All.  So Can You.
When it comes to famous queens of the Bible, we know the good one, Queen Esther, and the bad one, Queen Jezebel. Now meet the wise one, the queen of Sheba, who traveled to Jerusalem to test the mind and heart of a king.

Her quest for wisdom will surprise you, challenge you, inspire you, change you. This wealthy royal from antiquity will show you how to live boldly, seek after truth, ask the right questions, encourage others, receive graciously, and honor the Lord above all.

Shedding new light on this ancient biblical role model, Liz Curtis Higgs unveils timeless wisdom for all who aspire to please the king of Kings. - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781400070039#sthash.eMc1FXQf.dpuf

When it comes to famous queens of the Bible, we know the good one, Queen Esther, and the bad one, Queen Jezebel.  Now meet the wise one, the queen of Sheba, who traveled to Jerusalem to test the mind and heart of a king.

Her quest for wisdom will surprise you, challenge you, inspire you, change you.  This wealthy royal from antiquity will show you how to live boldly, seek after truth, ask the right questions, encourage others, receive graciously, and honor the Lord above all.

Shedding new light on this ancient biblical role mode, Liz Curtis Higgs unveils timeless wisdom for all who aspire to please the king of Kings.

About the Author:

Liz Curtis Higgs has been telling tales since she wrote her first novel at the tender age of ten. Careers in broadcasting, public speaking, nonfiction writing, and children's books brought her back to her first love, fiction, at the turn of the 21st century.

Liz Curtis Higgs

In her best-selling series of Bad Girls of the Bible books, workbooks, and videos, Liz breathes new life into ancient tales about the most infamous—and intriguing—women in scriptural history, from Jezebel to Mary Magdalene. Biblically sound and cutting-edge fresh, these popular titles have helped more than one million women around the world experience God’s grace anew.

Her best-selling historical novels, which transport the stories of Rebekah, Leah, Rachel, Dinah, Ruth, and Naomi to eighteenth-century Scotland, also have invited readers to view these familiar characters in a new light. Now, with The Girl’s Still Got It, Liz offers a twenty-first century take on the book of Ruth, dishing out meat and milk, substance and style, in a highly readable, always entertaining, and deeply personal journey with one of the Good Girls of the Bible.

Liz is the author of nearly 30 books, with more than 3 million copies in print. Her popular nonfiction books include Bad Girls of the Bible, Really Bad Girls of the Bible, Unveiling Mary Magdalene, Slightly Bad Girls of the Bible, Rise and Shine, and Embrace Grace.
- See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781400070039#sthash.eMc1FXQf.dpuf

When it comes to famous queens of the Bible, we know the good one, Queen Esther, and the bad one, Queen Jezebel. Now meet the wise one, the queen of Sheba, who traveled to Jerusalem to test the mind and heart of a king. - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781400070039#sthash.eMc1FXQf.dpuf

Sheba Journeyed Across the Desert with a Caravan of Riches,
 Only to Find the Greatest Treasure of Them All.  So Can You.
When it comes to famous queens of the Bible, we know the good one, Queen Esther, and the bad one, Queen Jezebel. Now meet the wise one, the queen of Sheba, who traveled to Jerusalem to test the mind and heart of a king.

Her quest for wisdom will surprise you, challenge you, inspire you, change you. This wealthy royal from antiquity will show you how to live boldly, seek after truth, ask the right questions, encourage others, receive graciously, and honor the Lord above all.

Shedding new light on this ancient biblical role model, Liz Curtis Higgs unveils timeless wisdom for all who aspire to please the king of Kings. - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781400070039#sthash.eMc1FXQf.dpuf

An Amish Brady Bunch? -- A Wedding at the Orange Blossom Inn

Shelley Shepard Gray provides another fun installment in her Amish Brides of Pinecraft series in A Wedding at the Orange Blossom Inn.

As I read the story, I couldn't help but compare some of the main characters to the classic TV show, The Brady Bunch.  Widowed mom with three girls meets widowed dad with three boys, and . . . well, you'll have to read the story to see what comes next.  Throw in a well-meaning, but trouble-making, beagle and you have plenty of elements for an enjoyable story. 

The characters are delightful to meet.  The relationships in the story move very quickly, but there is enough development to enjoy getting to know some of the feelings and struggles of the people involved.  There are visits from many of the Pinecraft folks we've met in the previous stories, including Beverly Overholt in her Orange Blossom Inn.  I am looking forward to seeing some loose ends tied up the final installment, a Christmas story.

Fans of Amish fiction should find Shelley's story to be a delightful, easy read.

Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for providing a copy of A Wedding at the Orange Blossom Inn in exchange for my honest review.

See what other readers think about the book here. 

About the Book:

A wedding brings together two young widowed parents . . . and gives them a second chance at love.

Emma Keim was heartbroken when her husband, Sanford, passed away, leaving her to raise three young daughters alone. Though several years have passed, her relatives have made it no secret that they expect Emma to remain a widow, mourning Sanford indefinitely. But when she meets Jay Hilty---a handsome widower with three young sons of his own---Emma is delighted to have a new friend who understands her struggles. Still, she is dismayed that her family is so opposed to their friendship---and the idea of it ever becoming anything more. She honors her husband's memory every day, but is she destined to be alone forever?

Emma's gentleness with Jay's boys stirs something in his heart that's been quiet for far too long. But when his oldest son becomes engaged to a local woman, suddenly Jay, Emma, and their children are swept up in wedding preparations. Witnessing his son's joy, Jay wonders if it's time for him to move forward, too, and find happiness again.

Once again, love has come to Pinecraft. But can these two parties of four become a happy, healthy family of eight?

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1USUEQM

 

About the Author: 

Shelley Shepard Gray is a two-time New York Times bestseller, a two-time USA Today bestseller, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time Holt Medallion winner. She lives in Southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town's bike trail.

Find Shelley online: website, Facebook, Twitter