Tuesday, May 31, 2022

Midnight's Budding Morrow by Carolyn Miller Blog Tour

About the Book:

Can real love grow between a wallflower and an unrepentant rogue?

Sarah Drayton is eager to spend time with her best friend at her crumbling Northumberland castle estate. Matrimony is the last thing on her mind and the last thing she expects to be faced with on a holiday. Yet she finds herself being inveigled into a marriage of convenience with her friend's rakish brother.

When James Langley returns to his family's estate, he can't be bothered to pay attention to his responsibilities as the heir. War is raging and he wants only distraction, not serious tethers. But his roguish ways have backed him into a corner, and he has little choice but to obey his father's stunning decree: marry before returning to war, or else. Suddenly he finds himself wedded to a clever and capable woman he does not love.

Sarah craves love and a place to belong, neither of which James offered before returning to the battlefront. Now everyone around her thinks she married above her station, and they have no intention of rewarding her for such impertinence. It isn't until her husband returns from war seemingly changed that she begins to hope they may find real happiness. But can she trust that this rake has truly reformed?

When tragedy strikes, this pair must learn to trust God and his plans. Will they be destroyed . . . or will they discover that even in the darkest depths of night, the morning still holds hope?

Click here to read an excerpt.

My Review:

This is a good novel for readers who love all things Regency. I like Miller giving us a heroine from the lower levels of the society of the day. Sarah is an orphan with no marriage prospects in her future. Until she is tricked into an arranged marriage, that is. At times she seems to have a good view of herself but at other times she crumbles under the comments from snooty high class women. Regency is not my favorite genre and I was amazed at how fragile women were in that day. What a difference from the woman CEO of today.

There is much character change in the novel, showing the transforming power of of the Holy Spirit when one submits to Him. James is a good example of God's grace and mercy. I found the senior Mr. Langley an odd character. His behavior seemed inconsistent. The Langley relationship with the doctor seemed odd for much of the book. His work was detested by the Langley family yet they always called on him when the slightest need arose. I finally saw later in the novel, his presence was essential for plot resolution.

Miller's writing style is a pleasure to read and would be especially appreciated by those who love Regency novels. I liked the note at the end adding interest to some historical aspects of the book.

My rating: 4/5 stars.


About the Series:


While most stories set in Regency England focus on the rich, the young, and the beautiful, award-winning author Carolyn Miller decided she wanted to give readers something different for a change. Her new Regency Wallflowers series follows the commoners, away from the hustle and bustle of 1810s London, out in the Lake District of England. She tells the stories of women who are slightly older and have few prospects for marriage, women who might be considered “wallflowers.”

Midnight’s Budding Morrow is the second book in the Regency Wallflowers series. The first book in the series is Dusk’s Darkest Shores and you can read my review of that book here. 

About the Author:

Carolyn Miller is an inspirational romance author who lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia, with her husband and four children.
 
A longtime lover of romance, especially that of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer’s Regency era, Carolyn holds a BA in English literature and loves drawing readers into fictional worlds that show the truth of God’s grace in our lives. She enjoys music, films, gardens, art, travel, and food.

Miller’s novels have won a number of RWA and ACFW contests. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Australasian Christian Writers. 
 
Learn more about Carolyn at www.carolynmillerauthor.com, or find her on Facebook (Carolyn Miller Author)Instagram (@CarolynMillerAuthor), and Twitter (@CarolynMAuthor)

Kregel Publications, 312 pages.


I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review. The rest of the copy of this post was provided by audrajenningspr.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)

Monday, May 30, 2022

Sabal Palms and the Southern Squall by Terry Overton Blog Tour


About the Book

Book: Sabal Palms and the Southern Squall

Author: Terry Overton

Genre: Christian Contemporary Women’s Fiction

Release date: April 5, 2022

Elaine Smith lived in the small coastal town of Sabal Palms long enough to know when to worry about a squall and when to simply close the windows and wait for it to pass. This one would be significant. It would be significant in terms of damage, but that was to be expected. What no one expected was the profound effect it would have on the lives of people from the Texas coast to New York City. Positive qualities of humanity are often displayed during times of natural disaster.
But a supernatural power had attached to this storm and subsequently worked within the hearts of the most needy, the most lonely, and the most sinister. The lives of four delightful women, a homeless teen, a rebellious son, a grieving lover who is at the bottom, a son who lost his faith, and a hired murderer, are all intertwined in the aftereffects of a Category 3 hurricane thanks to a few passages written by one determined woman.

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

At first I thought this novel would be your typical women's fiction, following the lives and friendly interactions of four very different women living on the Texas coast. While the calm, steady writing style continued, the methodical pace of the narrative changed when a hurricane appeared on the horizon.

I liked the friendships between the four women, their interactions, and their snappy conversations. But the message that intrigued me became clear in the after effects of the hurricane. We often wonder if what we are doing for the Lord is really benefiting others. Elaine spent hours writing heartfelt devotionals. “She longed to know that she was furthering God's work with her writing.” (2110/3750) It took a hurricane to reveal the truth.

Overton has given us a touching novel of seeing how God moves in mysterious ways to draw people to Himself, to restore relationships, and to craft friendships centered on caring for others. It is an encouraging story for those who are faithful to God's calling but do not get the recognition of those in the limelight. It also reminds us God works circumstances to His end, even if we are not aware of it. This is an encouraging novel for anyone who has ever wondered if they are making a difference in God's kingdom.

My rating: 5/5 stars.

 

About the Author

Terry Overton obtained her Ph.D. in Psychology and her Ed.D. in special education. She taught in public schools and was a school psychologist and a professor before retiring in 2016. Her university experiences included teaching at Longwood University in Virginia, the University of Texas-Brownsville, The University of Texas-Pan American, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, and Stephen F. Austin State University. She held positions as Dean and Department Chair during her tenure in higher education. Her areas of research included behavior disorders, learning disorders, autism, and research in higher education. She currently resides in Laguna Vista, Texas. She enjoys Biblical history and general Bible studies, writing, blogging, and visiting with friends and family. Her books have been recognized and received awards from Firebird Book Awards, American Writing Awards, and have earned five stars from Readers Views and Readers Favorites. Her books have been recognized Finalist for the International and National Book Awards.
 

More from Terry

This book will take the reader to the southern coast of Texas. In fact, this book happens at the very bottom tip of Texas. The reader will feel the warm sea breezes, view the coastal sunsets and sunrises, and experience the friendships of four close women friends. Here is a sample:

The women gathered at the swimming pool and shed their cover-ups. Next, each lady

took out her favorite sunscreen lotions and creams and sprayed and squirted so much on, they all

looked almost as pasty as a bottle of glue. No one talked at all during this process of slathering

on thick coats of varying SPFs. It was a polite, unspoken agreement that no forbidden words

were ever mentioned when the ladies were in swimwear. Words like cellulite, wrinkles, fat, fatty

tissue, weight, weight loss, weight gain, age spots, and—the worst words ever—skin cancer were

completely and totally off limits.

In times of crises, these four women always bind together and help each other. They have been friends for over twenty years. Here is an excerpt of one of their conversations during a pool party:

What strangers might not understand is the banter back and forth was exactly the only way they could get along. They enjoyed it. They thrived on it.

“Oh, fiddle-faddle, Bonnie, last week you told me you thought the salon was opening up

this week,” Mary jabbed. “It didn’t.”

“I didn’t say that. I said I heard it might be opening next month.”

“You said next week as sure as I am floating on this raft.”

“Had your hearing checked lately?”

“Right after you get yours checked.”

And they both laughed. It was always entertaining.

“Well, horsefeathers! I need to get this hair trimmed again. It is all cattywampus on the

sides.”

“What? You’ve got a cat in there?” Bonnie laughed.

“Feels like it,” Mary retorted.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, May 30

Where Crisis & Christ Collide, May 30

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations, May 31

Texas Book-aholic, June 1

Inklings and notions, June 2

deb's Book Review, June 3

For Him and My Family, June 4

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 5

Because I said so -- and other adventures in Parenting, June 6

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, June 7

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 8

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, June 9

Mary Hake, June 9

Blogging With Carol, June 10

Pause for Tales, June 11

Spoken from the Heart, June 12


I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review. The rest of the copy of this post was provided by Celebrate Lit.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)

Saturday, May 28, 2022

A Promise Engraved by Liz Tolsma Blog Tour

About the Book

Book: A Promise Engraved

Author: Liz Tolsma

Genre: Christian Fiction/Historical Fiction/Romance

Release date: May, 2022

Can Promises Made in Times of Struggle Endure 200 Years?

Visit historic American landmarks through the Doors to the Past series. History and today collide in stories full of mystery, intrigue, faith, and romance.

Young, spirited Josie Wilkins life is about to take a turn when faced with political turmoil and forbidden love in San Antonio of 1836. John Gilbert has won her heart, despite being a Protestant preacher who is forbidden to practice his faith in Texas. Will either of them survive an epic battle for liberty to create a legacy of love?

Nearly 200 years later, Kayleigh Hernandez takes breaks from her demanding job as a refugee coordinator working with Mexican migrants to attend flea markets where she has found a uniquely engraved ring. Enlisting the help of appraiser Brandon Shuman, they piece together a love story long forgotten. But will dangers linked to Kayleigh’s work end her own hopes for leaving a legacy built on hope, faith, and love?

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

This dual time novel got off to a bit of a rough start. In the 1836 narrative, there are allusions to something terrible having happened to Josie previously. It seems very important but the information so vague, I wondered if I had missed a previous novel. We eventually find out what happened but earlier information would have helped me be more engaged in Josie as a character. This part of the novel starts with the people having settled in Mexican held territory north of San Antonio feeling in grave danger. I was lost much of the time as I felt there was not sufficient background material included to set an understanding of the situation. A paragraph describing the historical, political and military conditions would have helped a great deal.

While Josie is the heroine in this time period, I had difficulty liking her. She acted impulsively. Was she brave or foolish? She thinks, “If only she had thought this through better.” (1791/3434) She had to repeatedly apologize for her actions and at one point said she would never admit to John that he was right. (2058/3434) I felt there were unreasonable scenes of her being attacked by Manuel. One time she is riding on the lonely prairie but does not notice him coming because she is thinking about a poem. (1448/3434) On a prairie, where one can see for miles?

There was repetition in the narrative. The Mexican camp tents lined up in perfect rows were mentioned twice in close proximity with nearly exact descriptions. (1760/3434 and 1781/3434) I am not sure all the shenanigans with the ring work out well. In the contemporary story, the person desiring the ring just comes out of nowhere. And the final information reveal that puts it all together came out of the blue too.

I did appreciate the information in the novel about the Alamo and the battle there. I liked the informative historical note at the end, distinguishing fact and fiction. While I think this is not Tolsma's best novel, I have generally liked her work and will be watching for her next book. 

My rating: 4/5 stars.

About the Author

Liz Tolsma is the author of several WWII novels, romantic suspense novels, prairie romance novellas, and an Amish romance. She is a popular speaker and an editor and resides next to a Wisconsin farm field with her husband and their youngest daughter. Her son is a US Marine, and her oldest daughter is a college student. Liz enjoys reading, walking, working in her large perennial garden, kayaking, and camping. Please visit her website at www.liztolsma.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter (@LizTolsma), Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest. She is also the host of the Christian Historical Fiction Talk podcast.

More from Liz

The Story of Susannah Dickinson, Alamo Survivor

When asked how many died at the Alamo, many would answer that everyone did. While it’s true that all fighting on the side of Texas independence perished, there were survivors, all women and children and one slave. The only white woman (the rest were of Mexican descent) was Susannah Dickinson, along with her daughter Angelina. Susannah had followed her husband, Almaron, to Mexican Texas in 1831. They had married two years before when Susannah was just fifteen. She never learned to read or write.

She and the other women hid in the sacristy of the church, one of the surviving buildings in the mission and what we now think of as the Alamo. Her husband died, but Mexican General Santa Anna found them and spared their lives, sending them to Sam Houston with $2 each and a blanket.

She married again the following year but divorced him almost immediately on the grounds of cruelty. She married a third time the following year and was married for five years until her husband died of alcoholism. A fourth marriage occurred in 1847, but she divorced again in 1857, this time allegedly because she was having an affair. That same year, she married for a fifth time. This marriage lasted until her death in 1883.

The ring in A Promise Engraved is based on a cat’s eye ring supposedly given to Angelina by William Travis before the battle. Angelina was Susannah’s only child. She married and had three children, but that marriage ended in divorce. She gave the ring to a man she’d become involved with in New Orleans. She married again and had one more child but died in 1869 from a uterine hemorrhage.

Today there are many descendants of Susannah Dickinson. If you visit the Susannah Dickinson house in Austin, you’ll see a quilt that is signed by many of her living descendants.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, May 28

Bigreadersite, May 28

The Write Escape, May 28

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations, May 29

Christina's Corner, May 29

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 29

lakesidelivingsite, May 30

Texas Book-aholic, May 30

Rebecca Tews, May 30

Inklings and notions, May 31

Blogging With Carol, May 31

Splashes of Joy, May 31

Betti Mace, June 1

Southern Gal Loves to Read, June 1

Genesis 5020, June 2

Daysong Reflections, June 2

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 2

Remembrancy, June 3

Books, Books, and More Books, June 3

For Him and My Family, June 3

Older & Smarter?, June 4

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 4

Tell Tale Book Reviews, June 5

deb's Book Review, June 5

Mary Hake, June 5

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, June 6

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, June 6

Blossoms and Blessings, June 6

Connie's History Classroom, June 7

Life of Literature, June 7

Back Porch Reads , June 7

Bizwings Blog, June 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 8

For the Love of Literature, June 8

Through the Fire blogs, June 9

Pause for Tales, June 9

Labor Not in Vain, June 9

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, June 10

Melissa’s Bookshelf, June 10

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, June 10


I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review. The rest of the copy of this post was provided by Celebrate Lit.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)

Friday, May 27, 2022

Final Deception, Final Justice by Dan Pedersen

Pedersen wrote and self published a series of mysteries, most taking place on Whidbey Island. Born on Whidbey and still living on the island, I am embarrassed to say I had not read any of the mysteries until recently, for a reading group discussion. I was familiar with Pedersen from his writing about local birds, a book about Whidbey Island, and his contribution to a book on island shore hikes, Getting to the Water's Edge.

Final Deception is the first Whidbey Island Mystery. It begins with a graphic description of a fall from Deception Pass Bridge. Most assume the Bella's death was suicide. Brad and a friend fly to Whidbey to attend the memorial get together. Having known Bella years ago, they are not so sure her death was not murder. A sheriff's deputy wonders too.

Pedersen wrote novels to entertain but also to get people thinking about social and personal issues. This novel centers on the noisy Growler jets at NAS Whidbey Island, the noisiest since the base was built during WW II. Some think the noise harms themselves, animals, and the environment. Others think the presence of the navy on the island is saving the economy and business. Bella was of a strong opinion. “Noise was the price islanders paid for selling their souls...” (56)

Final Justice is the fourth in the series but the next to take place on Whidbey. It features characters from previous novels and is best read after the earlier ones, including those set elsewhere. The plot in this mystery is based on an event from 1984. A white supremacist group had a compound on Whidbey at the time. The leader was killed when the FBI raided the group. (You can read about that event here.) In the present time, it appears another group on Whidbey may have terrorist ideas. A woman is missing and may be held captive by the terrorist group. 

Pedersen wrote this novel during the Trump administration and many characters feel free to express their displeasure with the man. It was suggested the rise in home grown terrorism was directly related to the President's rhetoric. This novel was written in the present tense, unlike the earlier one I read. I did not find that writing style pleasant.

Pedersen was one who loved the birds of Whidbey and readers will find references to many. He has done a great job showing off the beauty of Whidbey. He also gives interesting historical facts about places on Whidbey. Who knew Billy Sunday once came to the island, speaking at Maxwelton? Anyone who would like an introduction to the beauty of the island and the flavor of the various communities would do well to read Pedersen's mysteries.

Pedersen's books were self published and could have used a bit more editing. I often noted missing punctuation, as did previous readers of the library books, penciling in what was missing. The printed editions I read had plenty of white space and could be considered more novellas than actual full length novels. The mysteries are decently plotted. I liked the novels well enough that I have already purchased the next one set on Whidbey.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

Dan Pedersen (1947-2021) was born in Mount Vernon, WA, and moved to Whidbey Island in 1986. He received a master's degree in journalism from the University of Washington. He served in the Air Force during the Vietnam era, including time at Mountain Home, Idaho. He then worked for a number of newspapers. Most of his career centered on a marketing magazine, and a newsletter and many annual reports for Safeco Corporation. He retired from a corporate career in 2002, writing material for Island County Marine Resources Committee. He wrote a blog and self published several books on family history and rural living and began a mystery series. There are ten mysteries in all, many taking place on Whidbey Island. You can read past contributions to Pedersen's informative blog here. You can read more about his career and a tribute to him here.

Independently published.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)

Wednesday, May 25, 2022

The Traveling Prayer Shawl by Jennifer Lynn Cary Blog Tour


About the Book

Book: The Traveling Prayer Shawl

Author: Jennifer Lynn Cary

Genre: Christian Women’s Fiction/Split-time

Release date: March 17, 2021

Her dream account just landed in her lap…

…So did the future of her family

And she’s got two months to save them both.

Cami Madison’s grandmother died, leaving her with a task she must complete or all the inheritance goes to charity. Plus her boss handed her the ad campaign that will win her the coveted vice presidency opening.

Both have the same time table.

When she realizes the projects are intertwined, things really start to unravel.

Kate Hanson raised her granddaughter after the child became an orphan in a car accident. But not all scars are on the outside.

Can Kate’s last request help Cami to heal?

Will Cami be able to step up to the job?

You will love this split-time women’s romance because when family is on the line, everyone knows the only way to survive is wrapped in prayer.

Click here to get your copy!

My Review

I liked this touching story of relationship reconciliation. I liked how Cary developed the plot, centering on first cousins who did not get along well in childhood. A wise grandmother knew exactly how to structure her will so that lives would be changed and troubled relationships healed. We get flashbacks to help us understand how things got to be where they are today.

The characters were developed well. Cami is an accomplished woman. She has some rough edges needing softening and her grandmother's task sets in motion what needs to happen. I liked seeing how Cami came to face her areas of need and could reach out to others for help. Her greatest need gave Cary the opportunity to include a good gospel presentation in the plot as well as showing the power of prayer.

This is a good novel for readers who like seeing how God can change lives and form lasting relationships. It is a good exploration of one person willing to sacrifice for the well being of another, only to find what God has planned is best for all involved, including herself.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

 

About the Author

Historical Christian Romance author, Jennifer Lynn Cary, likes to say you can take the girl out of Indiana, but you can’t take the Hoosier out of the girl. Now transplanted to the Arizona desert, this direct descendant of Davy Crockett and her husband of forty years enjoy time with family where she shares tales of her small-town heritage and family legacies with their grandchildren. She is the author of The Crockett Chronicles series, The Relentless series, and The Weather Girls trilogy as well as the stand-alone novella Tales of the Hob Nob Annex Café and her split-time novel The Traveling Prayer Shawl.

More from Jennifer Lynn

The Traveling Prayer Shawl is actually a tribute to the wonderful women I’ve had the pleasure of making shawls with for the last ten plus years. We have a group that has remained faithful though some have had to leave, and new faces have joined. I thought this would be a book where there would be several points of view, sort of like how it is when we meet one Saturday per month. I even asked the girls when this idea began to churn if they could give me some character ideas.

Then one morning this scene came to me and wouldn’t leave. I wrote it out and sent it to my critique group. They thought I might be on to something.

Follow that with one of my prayer shawl girls asking if I was still interested in a character idea. Of course I said yes, and she handed me a fully fleshed out supporting character—Dericka.

I hadn’t planned on anything romantic but apparently my characters had other ideas. This story couldn’t get itself written fast enough.

The cherry on top was when another of my prayer shawl girls shared about a pattern her grandmother had designed that was published back in the 1960’s. With her permission, I include that pattern at the end of the book—an actual prayer shawl to crochet.

You will also see a prayer that is included with the shawl in the book. That is the same prayer that is given with each shawl from our Needles of Hope group. It was written by my dear friend, Pastor Lori Brown and used with her permission.

Crocheting is a relaxing craft for me and one I came to only a few years ago. My sweet grandmother tried to teach me to crochet, then gently suggested I stick with knitting. Ha! But my husband’s cousin came to visit and accepted the challenge, finally helping me to see what had been so elusive. Now I prefer it to knitting.

Though The Traveling Prayer Shawl is a stand-alone and not like my other books, I am currently working on another stand-alone split-time and have included the first chapter at the end of the book. Hope you will enjoy it and that you will try out my friend CeCe’s grandmother’s prayer shawl pattern.

Abundant blessings!

Blog Stops

An Author's Take, May 24

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, May 25

lakesidelivingsite, May 25

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations, May 26

Texas Book-aholic, May 27

Boondock Ramblings, May 27

Inklings and notions, May 28

For Him and My Family, May 29

Miriam Jacob, May 29

deb's Book Review, May 30

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, May 31

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 31

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, June 1

Because I said so -- and other adventures in Parenting, June 2

Mary Hake, June 2

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 3

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, June 4 (Author Interview)

Vicarious Living , June 4

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 5

Blogging With Carol, June 6

Spoken from the Heart, June 6


I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review. The rest of the copy of this post was provided by Celebrate Lit.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)


Tuesday, May 24, 2022

When the Day Comes by Gabrielle Meyer

This novel is an interesting change from the usual time travel plot. Here, certain people live in two periods, changing over from one time to another while sleeping. Libby, the heroine, lives in 1774 Williamsburg and 1914 New York City. This will continue until she turns twenty-one when she can choose the time in which to continue living.

We get a good sense of the per-revolutionary atmosphere in the colonies through Libby's life in 1774. Libby and her mother are keeping a print shop going after Libby's father died and we see the turmoil caused by printing material opposing the king. We also see the sacrifices people are willing to make for freedom as a war seems immanent.

There is a direct contrast with Libby's 1914 life. Libby's mother wants to see Libby marry for influence, preferably a titled man in England. What a contrast in time periods, wanting to be free of England in one period while wanting influential ties to that country in another. There is also the contrast of another impending war in a different situation.

Writing a time travel novel, in this case called time crossing, is a difficult task. Meyer does a good job addressing the issue of changing history and God's sovereignty in the matter. Libby found out, “Only God is in control of our destiny.” (303) I did feel Meyer was vague on why God would have some people experience this dual time. I appreciated the surprising twist at the end, wrapping up well a quite puzzling situation.

This is a good novel for readers who like exploring two interesting time periods in America's history in the context of the difficult choices Libby had to make in both situations. There is a bit of romance too. Meyer provides information on historical fact and fiction at a note at the end. All in all, an entertaining and informative novel.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

Gabrielle Meyer (www.gabriellemeyer.com) has worked for state and local historical societies and loves writing fiction inspired by real people, places, and events. She currently resides along the banks of the Mississippi River in central Minnesota with her husband and four children. By day, she's a busy homeschool mom, and by night she pens fiction and nonfiction filled with hope.

Bethany House, 384 pages. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)