One of my favorite pastimes is reading -- almost exclusively Christian fiction. Because I read a lot, I have enjoyed countless awesome books from many great authors. Here is where I share them with you for your enjoyment!
If I'm Found is the heart-pounding sequel to Terri Blackstock's If I Run. The tension and suspense continue to grow in this second book of the series.
The characters are fascinating and complex. Casey Cox is on the run for her life but just can't keep from caring for and helping others in dire situations, no matter the personal risk. Dylan Roberts is pursuing her but is caught in between threatening members of the law enforcement community and what he believes to be true about Casey. Trying to reconcile danger and truth leads to a multitude of life and death situations. Woven throughout the story are important elements of faith and learning to trust God, no matter what.
As an additional perk, I love what is being done with the covers of the books in this series. I'm not always impacted by book covers, but the creativity with this set is awesome.
I highly recommend If I'm Found to fans of great suspense. This series is one of Terri's best! You will definitely want to start with the first book, If I Run. The only bad thing about the series -- the conclusion will not be out until next spring. What a wait!
About the Book:
Casey Cox is still on the run, fleeing prosecution for a murder she
didn’t commit. Dylan Roberts–her most relentless pursuer–is still on her
trail, but his secret emails insist that he knows the truth and wants
to help her. He’s let her escape before when he had her in his grasp,
but trust doesn’t come easily.
As Casey works to collect evidence about the real murderers, she
stumbles on another unbearable injustice: an abused child and a suicidal
man who’s also been falsely accused. Casey risks her own safety to
right this wrong and protect the little girl from her tormenters. But
doing so is risky and just may result in her capture–and if she’s
captured, she has no doubt she’ll be murdered before she ever steps foot
in a jail.
In this riveting sequel to the USA Today bestseller If I Run, evil
lurks, drawing Casey out of the shadows … but there is light shining in
the darkness. Is Dylan a provision from the God who loves her, or
another heartache yet to happen?
About the Author:
Terri Blackstock has sold over seven million books worldwide and is a
New York Times bestselling author. She is the award-winning author of
“Intervention,” “Vicious Cycle,” and “Downfall,” as well as such series
as Cape Refuge, Newpointe 911, the SunCoast Chronicles, and the
Restoration Series.
"There is no one so damaged that grace can't redeem him.
That's one of the best things about God, I think.
He never sees us as too far gone."
"Do your best and trust God with the rest.
That's the way to find peace."
"God knows the best answer,
and he will reveal it at the right time."
There are always inspirational gems to be mined from "gentle stories of hope" by the awesome Kim Vogel Sawyer.These come from her latest novel, Bringing Maggie Home.
Kim has previously written great historical fiction, as well as Mennonite fiction with both historical and contemporary settings. Bringing Maggie Home represents a somewhat new direction for her, with the main story set in current time with flashbacks to events covering the lives of three generations of women in the same family. As expected, Kim did a fantastic job with this new venture.
So many issues challenge the characters in this story. From the beginning, you feel the tension and loss experienced by grandmother Hazel, her daughter Diane, and granddaughter Meghan. Sometimes I wanted to shake one or more of them and force them to sit down and talk things out. At other times, I found myself in tears as they worked through their issues, individually and together.
In her characteristic excellent writing style, Kim filled in the needed blanks in the women's lives as her story developed. Twists and turns in the developments certainly helped keep the interest level high. The end of the story . . . well, you will just have to read it for yourself to see how skillfully Kim concludes this engaging journey through time.
Thanks to Kim and her publisher for providing a copy of the book. I was delighted to share my own thoughts in this review.
About the Book:
Decades of Loss, an Unsolved Mystery, and a Rift Spanning Three Generations
Hazel
DeFord is a woman haunted by her past. While berry picking in a
blackberry thicket in 1943, ten-year old Hazel momentarily turns her
back on her three-year old sister Maggie and the young girl disappears.
Almost seventy years later, the mystery remains unsolved and the secret
guilt Hazel carries has alienated her from her daughter Diane, who
can’t understand her mother’s overprotectiveness and near paranoia.
While Diane resents her mother’s inexplicable eccentricities, her
daughter Meghan—a cold case agent—cherishes her grandmother’s lavish
attention and affection.
When a traffic accident forces Meghan
to take a six-week leave-of-absence to recover, all three generations
of DeFord women find themselves unexpectedly under the same roof. Meghan
knows she will have to act as a mediator between the two headstrong and
contentious women. But when they uncover Hazel’s painful secret, will
Meghan also be able to use her investigative prowess to solve the family
mystery and help both women recover all that’s been lost?
About the Author:
KIM VOGEL SAWYER is a highly acclaimed, best-selling author with
more than one million books in print, in seven different languages. Her
titles have earned numerous accolades including the ACFW Carol Award,
the Inspirational Readers' Choice Award, and the Gayle Wilson Award of
Excellence. Kim lives in central Kansas with her retired military
husband, Don, where she continues to write gentle stories of hope. She
enjoys spending time with her three daughters and grandchildren.
An Amish Summer is an enjoyable collection of sweet Amish stories, great for quick reading in the summer -- or any time of year.
The good thing about novellas is that they are quick to read. The bad thing about novellas . . . is that they are quick to read; the stories are sometimes over too soon, before you want them to end.
Seriously, I find the quick reads to be good for a few reasons. First, they can be a nice break from the longer novels and series that I enjoy so much. Second, they sometimes add more to stories I've already read by the author. Third, they give me a chance to read a sample by an author whose books I have never tried.
This collection was a mixture of those things for me. I've read and enjoyed Shelley Shepard Gray's Pinecraft series and enjoyed her story related to that. Amy Clipston and Kathleen Fuller are also authors whose novels I have enjoyed, and as expected I found these new stories by them delightful to read. This was the first story I had read by Kelly Irvin. I had a little trouble following the flow of her story; I don't know whether it was her style or whether having not read her other books contributed to that.
I would recommend An Amish Summer to anyone who is a fan of good Amish reads. Thanks to Booklook Bloggers for providing a copy of the book. I was happy to provide my personal thoughts in this review.
About the Book:
A new novella collection of sweet, summer romances from some of our favorite Amish authors!
A Reunion in Pinecraft by Shelley Shepard Gray
When sisters Sharon and Sherilyn Kramer attend a wedding in
Shipshewana, one of them returns with a new penpal while the other
returns to her job at the bakery. After sending weekly letters back and
forth, Sherry and Graham Holland arrange a reunion in Pinecraft. Upon
Graham’s arrival, however, he realizes he’s been writing to the wrong
sister. He decides to use the reunion as a way to get to know both
sisters, but can he sort through the confusion in time to turn the worst
vacation ever into something truly wonderful?
Summer Storms by Amy Clipston
Ariana is counting down the days until her wedding to Jesse. They
have been friends longer than Arianna can remember, and that friendship
turned into love over the past couple of years. But when Arianna’s
brother Tobias, who happens to be Jesse’s best friend, gets them both
into trouble, Arianna’s father puts an end to her engagement to Jesse.
Some summer storms pass quickly, but Arianna is afraid the damage from
this one may be too much to repair.
Lakeside Love by Kathleen Fuller
Esther has always lived in the shadow of her beautiful younger sister
Sarah. Even the boy she has known—and loved—her entire life, Judah,
only has eyes for Sarah. But when a handsome young Englischer comes to
live with the family for a summer, everything begins to change.
One Sweet Kiss by Kelly Irvin
Everybody in little Bee County, Texas, can see the obvious: Jacob
King and Martha Byler are meant to be together. Everyone, that is, but
Martha. Ever since her mother died when Martha was a young girl, she has
taken over the role of caregiver to her large family. And reckless
Jacob, who has had a little too much fun on his rumspringa, only seems
to add to the list of people to manage. But one summer changes
everything, and these two may just find a way to meet in the middle and
share one sweet kiss.
Destination: Romance is an enjoyable collection of five love stories, spanning both miles and years. Due to the limitations of space, romance happens pretty quickly in these novellas, but there is plenty of detail to pull you into each story.
The only one of the five authors I was familiar with was Kim Vogel Sawyer. As always, her story was a delight to read. Even though she had a much shorter format to work in than her usual full-length novel and her setting was considerably different from her usual, she still wrote about characters in a way that you could share the feelings and passion that make up their story.
The other authors did a good job as well, sharing engaging stories in a variety of settings and time periods. I was particularly happy to be introduced to the excellent writing of Kim's daughter in the final novella in the collection.
Thanks to Kim for providing an advance copy of this book. I was happy to share my own thoughts in this review.
About the Book:
From a cave in the hills of Missouri to a sandy beach in Grand Cayman,
romance blooms for five heroines when they least expect it.
Bare Feet and Warm Sand
BY Kim Vogel Sawyer
Marine
biologist Tamiera is determined to protect endangered sea turtles
against man’s intrusion. When Joe arrives on the island of Grand Cayman
with plans to build a resort near the turtles’ nesting grounds, will she
be able to convince him to put the needs of God’s creatures above
making money?
Sufficient Grace
BY Constance Shilling Stevens
An
abandoned Cherokee burial ground keeps secrets and draws a picture of
deep, enduring love for Nora, but land surveyor Donovan threatens the
place that holds sweet memories for Nora’s grandfather. Will Donovan
follow his boss’s orders or follow his heart?
Better Together Than Apart
BY Rose Allen McCauley
On
a K-Love cruise to Jamaica, Natalie re-connects with Ken, a boy she met
six years earlier on a high school summer mission trip. Attraction
stirs, but opposing goals threaten their romance. Will they listen to
God’s leading for their best place of service?
A Shelter in a Weary Land
BY Julane Hiebert
A
cave in the Missouri hillside was to be a shelter from pillaging Union
soldiers for Charlotte and her unborn babe. But will she be safe when a
wounded enemy seeks the same place of refuge?
Cotton Candy Sky
BY Kristian Libel
When
a Kansas girl falls in love with the ocean, she thinks nothing could be
more exhilarating than life on a beach...except maybe falling for a
traveling photographer who introduces her to more adventure than she’d
ever imagined. But is their connection one that can last, or will their
time together simply remain a fond memory as they go their separate
ways?
Amish Brides is a sweet collection of Amish love story novellas. As is expected in the shorter format, things happen fast and the outcomes are pretty predictable. But the stories that lead to those outcomes are delightful to read.
In The Reluctant Groom, Jennifer Beckstrand takes us on a quick visit to Huckleberry Hill and the matchmaking duo of Anna and Felty. If you are familiar with that series, you know that fun and wisdom will show up as the Helmuths do their part (and more) to help find just the right match for one of their grandchildren.
Molly Jebber's Joshua's Bride carries a little more serious tone than the other stories. The characters have some difficult family issues to work through, requiring each of them to evaluate their own feelings and priorities.
In a A Summer Wedding in Paradise, Amy Lillard tells the lively story of a couple who aren't quite sure what they are looking for . . . and some eager little girls who have their own ideas of how to give love a push in the right direction.
If you are a fan of Amish fiction and enjoy light, entertaining stories of love, Amish Brides would be a great choice.
Thanks to Celebrate Lit for providing a copy of the book. I was happy to share my own thoughts in this review.
About the Book:
THE RELUCTANT GROOM Jennifer Beckstrand Spirited
Suvie Newswenger has three marriage proposals—but not from the man she
truly loves. No matter how lonely widower Aaron Beachy is, he seems
determined to stay that way forever. Now, with help from his matchmaking
great-grandparents, Suvie will do whatever it takes to rekindle Aaron’s
hope—and spark happiness for a lifetime.
JOSHUA’S BRIDE Molly Jebber
Madeline Lehman fears her fiancé’s family will never accept her because
of her rebellious sister. She’s postponed her wedding to Joshua
Stutzman until they see the truth. But when Maddie adopts her sister’s
abandoned baby, can she and Joshua find a way to unite their families
through forgiveness as well as love?
A SUMMER WEDDING IN PARADISE Amy Lillard
Reba
Schmucker longs to be a bride. And she knows her mischievous nieces
just wanted to help when they “chose” Abel Weaver for her. But he’s the
last man in the world she’d ever marry. There’s no way her independence
and his stubbornness could ever get along—unless a sudden crisis somehow
leads to understanding . . . and love.
About the Authors:
Jennifer Beckstrand is the RITA nominated and award-winning
author of the Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series. She loves writing
about the plain Amish life and the antics of Anna and Felty Helmuth. She
and her husband have been married for thirty-one years, and she has
four daughters, two sons, and four adorable grandchildren--whom she
spoils rotten. Readers can visit her website at
www.jenniferbeckstrand.com. Molly Jebber enjoys
writing stories about Amish history and their culture. She’s a Women’s
Christian Connection motivational speaker and enjoys meeting new people.
She loves God, her family and friends, sunshine, swimming and traveling
to the Amish communities. Creating historical Amish characters and
throwing them into difficult situations and joyous times has been
challenging and fun for her. Readers can visit her website at
www.mollyjebber.com. Amy Lillard won the 2013 Carol Award for her first Amish romance Saving Gideon.
She was also a Maggie Awards finalist. Born and bred in Mississippi,
she now lives with her husband and son in Oklahoma. Visit her at
amywritesromance.com.
Guest Post:
Molly Jebber is highlighted in the tour with Celebrate Lit and has shared the following guest post with her readers:
Do you remember picking out your bride’s dress? The cake? Food?
Location? The invitations? Weddings are fun, no matter how simple or
extravagant. The marked event fills your heart with joy sharing in the
special day with the bride and groom. I remember the day I married Ed,
my best friend and soulmate. We planned the details together, and we
still talk about what a heartwarming memory it is for us. I’m sure if
you and I met for a girl’s chat, we’d enjoy hearing each other’s account
of when we exchanged vows with our sweethearts.
Amish brides may not have the flowers, rings, and fancy food and
cake, but they have their traditions and share in the excitement like we
do. I enjoyed writing “Joshua’s Bride”. I hope you enjoy it too.
Molly
Jebber’s books have been featured in Publisher’s Weekly, USA Today’s
HEA, and Romantic Times has given them a near excellent rating. She’s on
RWA’s Honor Roll. She’s a speaker for Women’s Christian Connection, and
she offers presentations on writing, publishing, Amish lifestyle and
traditions. She has received widespread media coverage, including live
interviews, across the United States for her books and speaking
engagements.
She’s
just signed a new contract for four more Amish books! She loves
interacting with her readers. She loves God, her husband, family and
friends. She has a hard time saying no to cupcakes, swimming, nine holes
of golf, and walks on the beach. Coconut, oatmeal, and onions, on the
other hand, are not hard to say no to!
To celebrate her tour, Molly is giving away a $50 Amazon Gift Card!
Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter
to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/b3a7
You know how sometimes an idea is good the first time or two you see it, but then it gets old after it is repeated over and over? Well . . . that is NOT what happens with Jennifer Beckstrand's Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series. Return to Huckleberry Hill is (I think) the 7th book in this series, and the stories just keep on entertaining!
Once again Anna Helmuth is concerned about doing some matchmaking for one of her grandchildren. Her original plans for a granddaughter get sidelined when grandson Reuben shows up from Ohio. But never fear, Anna shifts directions quickly and the fun begins!
Anna's knitting and culinary skills are of course important parts of the story. And who would have thought that Felty's license plate game could helpful in affairs of the heart!
Jennifer once again fills her story with a fun and quirky cast of characters. Her creativity leads to plenty of fun and thrilling adventures for everyone involved. I certainly hope that she continues to give us more opportunities to visit Anna and Felty on Huckleberry Hill. Fans of fun Amish fiction should enjoy this delightful read.
Thanks to Celebrate Lit for providing a copy of this book. I was pleased to voluntarily share my own thoughts for this review.
About the Book:
When it comes to matchmaking, Huckleberry Hill, Wisconsin’s
unstoppable octogenarians Anna and Felty Helmuth never seem to run out
of opportunities—or grandchildren…
Reuben Helmuth is plenty bitter. John King, his best friend—or so he
thought—is engaged to the girl Reuben loved. Humiliated, Reuben flees
from Ohio to his grandparents’ home on Huckleberry Hill, where he knows
he’ll find comfort. He’s enjoying wallowing in his misery—until John’s
sister, Fern, shows up. She won’t stop pestering Reuben about
forgiveness—or trying to help him find love again. Yet Fern’s efforts
only reawaken Reuben’s long-buried feelings—forher…
With her brother too ashamed to face Reuben, it’s fallen to Fern to
help mend fences. But as she and the Helmuths do all they can—even
organizing a knitting club event filled with eligible girls—it may take
one more challenge to inspire Reuben to forget his heartache, recognize
his own blunders, and embrace the true love that’s right in front of
him…
Jennifer Beckstrand is the award winning Amish romance author of The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hillseries and The Honeybee Sisters
series for Kensington Books. 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 and the Honeybee
sisters’ aendi Bitsy. Jennifer has a degree in mathematics and a
passion for Jane Austen and Shakespeare. She and her husband have been
married for thirty-two years, and she has four daughters, two sons, and
soon-to-be six adorable grandchildren, whom she spoils rotten.
Guest Post by the Author:
Anna Helmuth is starting a knitting club, but that’s not all she’s got up her sleeve. My family. I have five sisters and no brothers. I think my mom made every dress in this photo, including her own.In Return to Huckleberry Hill, Anna Helmuth and Fern King
decide to start a knitting club in order to introduce Anna’s grandson
Reuben to some girls from Bonduel, Wisconsin. Anna is a very good
knitter, with years of practice making baby blankets, scarves, mittens,
and potholders. One of Anna’s scarves actually saved someone’s life, and
her potholders have helped her make many a match.
When I was a young teenager, I learned how to knit and crochet. My
mom taught me how to sew and quilt, and I made several of my own dresses
in high school. I never learned to love sewing, but it was an
invaluable skill that I am so grateful to have. Now that I’m a little
older, I love putting together simple quilts for baby gifts and making
quilts for the local children’s hospital. There is nothing like a
homemade gift to say, “I care about you.”
I have a friend who is a wonderful cook. Making a delicious,
beautiful meal is how she tells her family she loves them. I don’t
consider myself a great cook, but I still take pride in putting
something nutritious and satisfying on the table for my family.
It seems to me that some of the “home arts” that our mothers and
grandmothers practiced are dying out. Who knows how to tat anymore? Or
embroider? Some of these arts have died because of expediency. Who
doesn’t think today’s stocking choices are more comfortable and
practical than knitted wool ones? Others have died out because so few
people want to learn.
What about you? Do you still practice any of the home arts that your
grandmother did? What do you want to pass on to the next generation?
Check out reviews by other readers by visiting the Tour Page.
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Jennifer is giving away a $15 Amazon gift card to three lucky winners!! Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/b3b2
If I'm Found is the heart-pounding sequel to Terri Blackstock's If I Run. The tension and suspense continue to grow in this second book of the series.
Terri Blackstock has sold over seven million books worldwide and is a
New York Times bestselling author. She is the award-winning author of
“Intervention,” “Vicious Cycle,” and “Downfall,” as well as such series
as Cape Refuge, Newpointe 911, the SunCoast Chronicles, and the
Restoration Series.
