Capturing Hope by Angela K. Couch

Capturing Hope is part of the Heroines of World War II series by Angela K Couch. This book was the fantastic amazing fictional story story of Nadia. The story opens with Nadia and her father and a mysterious American photographer, named David. This is just when Germany is invading Poland. Nadia‘s father gives David specific instructions to safely help Nadia out of Poland. David is on a mission to get her out, but it ends there. Or will it? Along the way David and Nadia have compassionate hearts to help and save others. 

Although this is a difficult and deep subject, the author also made it a great fictional read. Using a very heartbreaking topic, the author was able to make it a very a interesting story. The author did leave me with a few questions at the end, but I did enjoy the story. In fact, I couldn’t put it down. I couldn't wait to read to find out how the story ended. Nadia's compassionate heart is an inspiration. I would highly recommend Capturing Hope by Angela Couch.

The Warsaw Sisters by Amanda Barratt

The Warsaw sisters by Amanda Barrett shares the heavy and heartbreaking story of two women in Poland during the German invasion starting in 1939. This heavy tale weaves the story of these two sisters, their loss, loves, their hardship, their secrets, and their tragedy. This is a deep book to read. Helena and Antonia are twins. They share everything, but will the German invasion prevent that? What will happen to the closeness they once shared? How far will they go? What will they do to survive?

I will admit I had trouble getting started with the story because of the heaviness. I would say this is definitely historical fiction with a lot of facts. Once I was able to get into the story, I could not put it down. I was enthralled. The story of Antonia and Helena, the tragedies they endure, and the twist and turns of the story were amazing. It is a heavy book, but is definitely worth the read. This is part of the World War II Poland series. Lots of historical information but also a wonderful read. I would highly recommend. 

Garden of the Midnights by Hannah Linder

 I absolutely loved Garden of the Midnights by Hannah Linder! This historical romance novel was super intriguing! William Kensley knows his mother passed when he was born. He knows that his father will have nothing to do with him. He knows that his aunt and cousin despise him. When his grandfather passes away he is left with an inheritance and many questions. Those he has spent his entire life with raise questions and concerns about his history. Is his father really a wealthy estate owner? Does he really have a sister? What is his true birth story and the circumstances of his birth? Can William trust anyone?

As I said, I loved this book. I could not put it down and had to keep reading. The story line kept twisting with the unexpected. The author wrote in a very enthralling manner. I was hooked! I throughly enjoyed this book and would absolutely recommend it. I am looking forward to reading more books by Hannah Linder! 

The Flower Quilter by Mindy Steele

The Flower Quilter by Mindy Steele is a refreshing new Amish Christian Fiction. Barbara never quite fit in with her family. Her love for the outdoors and flowers does not coincide with her family's traditions of quilting and staying indoors. As Barbara is getting older, her parents send her off to Indiana to help her grandparents, specifically her grandmother, at her quilting shop. Barbara quickly realizes, yet again, that quilting is not for her. She does also not appreciate the rude young man who nearly ran her over once she arrive in Indiana. All she wants to do is return to her family and Kentucky. Will Barbara ever find her calling? Will she be able to work with the flowers that bring her such joy?

I found The Flower Quilter a unique Amish novel. It honestly had a different twist the the usual Amish fiction romance. I was hooked and could not put it down. Mindy writes in a new and refreshing way. There is a glossary of Amish terms in the beginning, which initially intimidated me, however, I found that I was able to decipher the jargon from the context and didn't really need it. I absolutely enjoyed the Flower Quilter and couldn't put it down. I highly recommend. 

Against the Wind by Amanda Cabot

Against the Wind by Amanda cabinet is part of the Secrets of Sweetwater Crossing series. While this is the second book in the series, you do not need to read the first, although it is very helpful. Louisa Vaughan has returned to Sweetwater Crossing, but only for a few days. Her dreams and ambition to be a midwife, and doctor are not met with the most receptive attitudes in her hometown. She has been rejected in the past and is rejected again. However, on her return trip home, she finds an injured man along the road. As is her calling, Louisa takes care of him. Although she soon finds herself doing more than just taking care of him. 

I could not put this book down. I was so into the storyline and thoroughly enjoyed it. Amanda writes with intrigue and mystery. Against the Wind is action packed  as well as unexpected. This is an excellent book. I can’t wait for the next one to come out. I highly recommend.

On Moonberry Lake by Holly Varni

On Moonberry Lake by Holly Varni is the wonderful story of Cora Matthews and her newly inherited home. Cora’s world has been tuned upside down. Having broken off an engagement, the death of her mother and her unreconciled childhood have left her wondering what Moonberry Lake has to offer. Cora remembers visiting Moonberry Lake as a child. But why did her mother leave suddenly years ago and no longer have contact with her grandparents? Why did her mother leave her the family lodge upon her passing? What can she learn from this inheritance?

I loved this book! The story line was absolutely enthralling! I simply could not put it down. I kept reading to find out exactly what had happened to Cora and how she ended up in Moonberry Lake. Trying to solve the mystery of her inheritance and wondering if she will ever find true love was intriguing. So may characters to fulfill the story. I absolutely enjoyed it and recommend. I could not put it down. 

A Royal Christmas by Melody Carlson

A Royal Christmas by Melody Carlson is a wonderful story. Adelaide is living her normal life, although struggling since her mom has passed away. She struggles with her grief and trying to stay focused on her goals. Her living the conditions are less than desirable but she is grateful. However, she is thankful for her life and her friend Maya. All of a sudden Adelaide receives a notification based on a DNA test she had taken at one point. Could she really be the daughter of a King? Could she really be a princess? What is this principality that she could possibly be royalty for? Is this even legitimate? Will Adelaide give up all of her life to go and find out? Is it worth it?

This is an awesome fairytale story. I thoroughly enjoyed A Royal Christmas. It was a quick read, but such a fun holiday delight. In usual Melody Carslon style, it is well written and an exciting romance. I was intrigued by the story and couldn’t put the book down. I would highly recommend. 

He Should Have Told the Bees by Amanda Cox

He Should Have Told the Bees by Amanda Cox is the amazing story of two strong and confident women. Beckett is a beekeeper, learning all that she has from her father. Her mother left her and her father at a young age. Suddenly her father passes away. Beckett receives information about a trust. She has no idea what is happening or why she received this information. Callie is helping her mother recover from addiction yet again. Will her mother successfully complete treatment? How many more times can Callie go through this. Why did Callie receive information about a trust?

I have to admit when I first started the book I was rather confused. After a few chapters, however, I was intrigued. I could not put the book down. I couldn’t wait to continue and read on. This is an amazing story well crafted by the author. I highly recommend. I can't wait to read more book by Amanda Cox!

Letters from My Sister by Valerie Fraser Luesse

I absolutely loved Letters from My Sister by Valerie Fraser Luesse. Set at the turn of the century, Emmy and Callie live in a well to do household. They enjoy sharing life and working alongside their large family. Though different personalities they throughly enjoy one another. Emmy is courting Knox, a wonderful love story. However, Knox's brother is not so kind. Callie notices Solomon, who is restoring a beloved neighboring homestead. Callie is intrigued, and Solomon is such a gracious gentleman. Will Callie have the opportunity to live in this beloved house with Solomon? Suddenly a pregnant Lily arrives at the estate. Lily's husband has passed in a train accident, or was it an accident? Lily cannot safely live on the farm. The night that Lily and her baby girl escape Callie has a very strange experience. Was there something she can't recall about that night? How will she remember? 

Honestly, I couldn’t put this book down. I am running to find more books by this author. I absolutely loved it. There were sometimes when I was reading and crying. I highly recommend this book. It is quite the plot with amazing twists and turns! I highly recommend!

Summer in the Spotlight by Liz Johnson

Summer in the Spotlight by Liz Johnson is the delightful tale of Kelsey Ahern. Kelsey is the drama teacher at the high school and loves her job. She also helps out with the local theater. Her late grandmother has inspired her love for the theater. During an unfortunate hurricane, which damages part of the school, Kelsey is comforted by school custodian and longtime acquaintance Levi Ross. What is it the Kelsey feels for Levi? Why does Levi hold his words and not speak very often. How can Kelsey deal with the news of the local theater closing? Can it be saved? Will Kelsey have a job? What role will Levi play in all of this?

Summer in the Spotlight is a wonderful read! I throughly enjoyed the twists and turns of this romantic novel. The story is set in Canada, so you may be trying to covert kilometers to miles. Overall it was a great book to enjoy and I did enjoy the book. I would recommend Summer in the Spotlight.

Rebecca by Shannon McNear

Rebecca is part of the Daughters of the Lost Colony series. This book is historical romance Christian fiction. It was rather unique as it read a little bit like a history book. I was intrigued by the story of Rebecca . Rebecca explores an alternative view of the fate alongside the life of Pocahontas. This is definitely a unique and interesting genre. There is jargon with a glossary provided. I would suggest starting at the glossary! Filled with both historical information and the romance of the story, this book does make you think. Truly a unique read.

This Is Where It Ends by Cindy K. Sproles

This is Where It Ends by Cindy K. Sproles tells the story of Minerva, who at the age of 14 was married, and her husband, Stately. He moved her to the mountains. She lived on the mountain for 50 years with her husband. At the age of 94, 30 years after continuing to mourn his death, a reporter, Del, shows up at her home. Suddenly, Del is caring for Minerva and helping her. However, Minerva is trying to figure out what Del’s motives are. Does it relate to the box that Minerva’s late husband had given her upon his death? The one he told her to keep as a secret, and not share under any circumstances. What is in the box? Is it gold as many believe? Is it something else? Was Stately, ever truly in love with her? Was there another woman? What are Del’s ultimate motives? What does he know? 

This story tells the fascinating tale of life many years ago. I’ll admit the story did take a little while to pickup, however I was fascinated and intrigued to find out exactly what was happening. About halfway through I could not put it down and to tried to solve the mystery of what was in the box. This is a fantastic historical fiction book that I would recommend. 

But Then She Remembered by Katie Westenberg

But Then She Remembered - How to give God your full attention in a distracted world by Katie Westenberg is a unique non-fiction and Bible study blend. This book is different than most that I have read as the author shares her thoughts and insights, then has a short Bible study, followed  by some more insight. The author does discuss a variety of topics, such as identity, reading God’s word, focusing on memory, and telling our story. This was a very unique book to read due to the variety of topics. This would be ideal to do with a friend or as a group and do the Bible study together.  I did find myself underlining and highlighting many ideas. 

I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review, which I was happy to do. I do recommend But Then She Remembered - How to give God your full attention in a distracted world by Katie Westenberg. I think others will enjoy this unique Bible study and insightful book.

In the Shadow of the River by Ann H. Gebhart

In the Shadow of the River, by Ann H. Gebhart, Jacci shares her journey of being raised on a showboat. She knows so much of her past, but at the same time it is so little. The first part of the historical romance fiction shares Jacci’s childhood and the traumatic events that ensued. In the second part of the novel, Jacci is picking up the pieces of her life and trying to move on. She is content to be a showboat actress and enjoys her adopted family. Gabe is just like an older brother, or is he? And what about the parts in her past that she does remember? How does she reconcile those memories? What about the memories of her late mother? How can she reconcile those? Who knows the truth? 

In the Shadow of the River is a fantastic historical fiction. I thoroughly enjoyed the story. I did enjoy the tales set in the 1880s. Reading about showboat life was interesting. The story was well written by the author. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review. I do recommend In the Shadow of the River. 

High Low Buffalo by Jessie Seneca

High Low Buffalo by Jesse Seneca shares the power of a God centered perspective. Jessie explains the simple game of sharing a high of your day or a bright spot, followed by a low of your day, followed by a random or unexpected blessing, called a buffalo. In this book, Jessie encourages the reader to look for those high points of your day. Record them, journal them and appreciate them. Jessie also examines the valleys in life, or the lows. She says a valley is usually between two highs. Jessie encourages you to look for those unexpected blessings or buffalos. Not necessarily a high, but some unexpected, random things that happen. Jessie also challenges you to consider how you can be that unexpected blessing for someone else. This book provides an opportunity for personal reflection and journaling at the end of each chapter. I found myself underlining and highlighting throughout the book. I was challenged by Jessie‘s insight, encouragement, and real life stories that she shares. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to read High Low Buffalo by Jessie Seneca and I highly recommend.

The Keys to Gramercy Park

The Keys to Gramercy Park by Candice Sue Patterson has everything a novel should have and more! This dual timeline historical fiction has romance, politics, mystery, deceit and so much more. Andrea stumbles upon counterfeit money in her apartment. She also meets a handsome man while waitressing. Who is this man? Why would he even bother with her and besides she does not date those she serves at the restaurant, much less someone wealthy and powerful. Back in time, Edward hates his brother. Seeing him prosper and marry Margaret is simply too much. He cannot help that he was born with a deformed foot. He cannot serve in the war and make his father proud. Only his twin brother, Franklin, can make his father proud. Then one day Edward finally wins. Or does he?

I loved this book! Filled with all the great literacy elements it had me hooked! Sometimes a dual timeline can be hard to follow but not so with The Keys to Gramercy Park! I was given a free copy from the publisher and honestly I could not put the book down! I highly recommend! Run to find this book!

The Swindler's Daughter by Stephenia H. McGee

The Swindler’s Daughter by Stephenia H.McGee is the trilling tale of Lillian and her unknown past. Lillian suddenly finds out her father has left all of his assets and business to her. However, all Lillian has been told her entire life is that her father passed away many years ago. Having been raised by her mother her entire life she knows only what her mother has revealed. Her mother works very hard to become a socialite, including arranging Lillian‘s marriage.  Lillian heads to the small town to inspect that which her father has left for her. She is shocked to find a woman and her children living in her father’s house. Who are these people? Who is the charming young man with them? Will Lillian stand up to her mother? What are her father’s secrets? 

The Swindler’s Daughter will keep you entertained and tuning pages. I was excited to read this historical fiction novel and enjoyed the story set in 1912. It is well written and captivating. I could not put it down. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review which I was happy to do. I would recommend The Swindler’s Daughter. 

Blind Trust by Natalie Walters

Blind Trust by Natalie Walters shares the story of Lyla Fox and her daring role with the SNAP Agency. Lyla is undercover working an investigation of veteran fraud. However she is not as careful as she once once and she blames it on the presence of Nicolas and his charm. Suddenly Lyla receives a death threat and there are several close calls for her life. What is going on? Who is put to get her and why? Will her life be influenced by Nicolas? Can she work with him moving forward? Is it worth the cost?

Blind Trust weaves quite a tale of mystery and romance. This book is part three of a series and as a first time reader of this series (and the only book I read from the series) I would recommend reading the first two books. The story is captivating however I think the reader would enjoy it as part of the series and not a stand alone book. I did enjoy the book and would recommend. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review. 

Your New Now by Nicki Koziarz

Your New Now by Nicki Koziarz is an excellent book sharing the four stages of change or transition in life. As in true Nicki author style, Nicki is real and shares her joys, struggles and everyday life in her book. Her writing is authentic and relatable for many women. After each transition that Nicki shares, there is a mini Bible study on Moses. This could be completed individually or as a group. This book is great for reading alone or could be shared with a group of friends. It could be completed as a low key Bible study.

Nicki also has excellent resources on her website to go along with the book. There are places to journal in the book. It is a great source for personal reflection of what transition you are in. I found myself relating, highlighting and filling in the spaces provided with self reflection. This book is relatable to women of all stages, although I found it more so relatable as I have experienced some of the same stages as Nicki. I highly recommend Your New Now by Nicki Koziarz. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review. I  can't wait to share it with others! Such an encouragement.

The Bible Recap One Year Guide by Tara-Leigh Cobble

The Bible Recap One Year Guide by Tara-Leigh Cobble is an excellent commentary to go along with the Bible Recap series. The Bible Recap takes you on a chronological Bible reading plan, and the recap devotional explains and connects the story of the scripture section by section. This book is a personal size edition, which features the same content as the original book and is ideal for reading on the go. Each page features the scripture chapter reading for that day, and the God shot for each section. Features a ribbon bookmark. Beautiful leather like cover. This is the convenient and compact addition. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review, which I was happy to do.

Stuff I'd Only Tell God by Jennifer Dukes Lee

I was so excited to get my hands on this guided journal by Jennifer Dukes Lee. If you follow Jennifer, you know she is real, honest and fun! Stuff I'd Only Tell God is a guided journal of courageous honesty, obsessive truth-telling, and beautifully ruthless self-discovery. This fun book features wonderful journal prompts and thought-provoking illustrations to journal your life. Sections include me and my people, me and my past, me and right now, me and my weird ways, honesty, me and my future. This journal helps you reflect on many areas of your life and is absolutely fun. Anything from how you spend your free time, to two truths, and a lie, to your worst nightmare, or this, or that, habits, places you’ve been or don’t want to go, as well as a plethora of other journal prompts. This journal is great for self reflection and also makes a wonderful gift. This can also be passed down to family or used year after year to see growth and change. Well done, Jennifer!

I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review. I am so thankful I was and happily recommend this book. 

Authentic Worship by A.W. Tozer, Compiled by James L. Snyder

 Authentic Worship - The Path to Greater Unity with God by A.W. Tozer, Compiled and Edited by James L. Snyder

This book describes and shares great insight into authentic worship. Snyder has compiled many books featuring Tozer’s preaching. This book includes roots of authentic worship, our presence in authentic worship, God‘s holiness, God‘s perfection, the art of song, the voice of God, our unity with God, our conscious awareness in authentic worship, freedom and worship, and the beauty of God in worship. Hymns are also included. This is an excellent collection of Tozer's sermons on worship. Profound wisdom one would expect from Tozer. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review. I highly recommend Authentic Worship.

Israel by Tara Leigh Cobble

Israel, Beauty, Light and Luxury by Tara-Leigh Cobble is an absolutely stunning, coffee table style book of Israel. This book features beautiful photographs, as well as commentary. There is scripture with each destination. Destinations include the Joppa, Galilee Shoreline, Mount Beatitudes, homes in the desert, Mount of Olives, the Garden of Gethsemane,  as well as many other significant places. The photographs are absolutely stunning. Not only is this a picture book but it’s also a devotional. Perfect if you visited Israel, hope to one day, or you are just curious about Israel. Book is large, but contains such beauty.  Also features a photo index. Tara-Leigh has led many tours of Israel over the years so this is just a small fraction of her experiences. I was given a free copy from the publisher, for my honest review, which I was happy to do. This book is a beautiful delight.

When Tomorrow Came by Hannah Linder

Join in on the captivating tale by Hannah Linder in Tomorrow Never Came. Nan and Heath are siblings abandoned by their papa and abused. They live in a crate and survive on the London streets. Searching for food and living in poor conditions. However, Nan is rescued from her life during an unfortunate accident. A gentleman takes her to his home to care for her. Heath, on the other hand is without Nan. They have both grown up in such a hard life. Their father has abandoned them. Heath must do what he must to survive.

There are many twists, and turns to the plot of When Tomorrow Came. Join Heath and Nan on their unexpected journey with their father, forgiveness, and being reunited. Not all is that as it appears. 

I enjoyed When Tomorrow Came by Hannah Linder. I would recommend this book. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review, which I was happy to do. 

Create Anyway by Ashlee Gadd

Create Anyway, the Joy of Pursuing Creativity in the Margins of Motherhood by Ashlee Gadd is a beautifully illustrated, hardcover book sharing Ashlee's journey of mothering and creativity. This is a raw and honest look at mothering as well as creativity. Ashlee gives moms the permission to be creative. The audience is definitely for younger mothers. Ashlee is the founder of Coffee + Crumbs, an online to community for mothers. She also shared shares highlights of other women who have been creative. This content is geared towards younger mothers, and will be an encouragement for them. As a mother of older children, I did not find it quite as appealing. However, I am sure it will be benefit younger moms. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review, which I was happy to do. This will be an encouragement for many. 

After the Shadows by Amanda Cabot

After the Shadows, which is book one of Secrets of Sweetwater Crossing by Amanda Cabot is the entertaining and thrilling fiction historical romance novel. Emily's husband has recently passed away. However, Emily is not saddened, because of the abuse he has caused her. She has no sorrow and returns home. Her sister, Louisa, has decided to leave home after her father's sudden suicide. However, Emily does not believe her father committed suicide. Something is wrong. Left alone in a huge house with a recent fire next-door, Emily must learn how to provide income for herself. Enter Craig and his toddler son, Noah. Emily longs to be a mother. But that simply won’t happen. She is delighted to welcome Craig and Noah as boarders. Craig is the new school teacher. How will it be having a young child in her home? Will she ever find out who killed her father? What are those in the town saying about Emily and her family? What really happened in her marriage? After the Shadows is a great read that will keep you entertained and enthralled. In fact, I can't wait to read the next book in the series. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review, which I was happy to do.

Letters of Trust (Book One) by Wanda E. Brunstetter

Letters of Trust is book one in the Friendship Letter series. I have read Wanda Brunstetter’s books before. However, this is a very unique novel. Eleanor has recently married Vic. Her parents have some concerns about his history and his use of alcohol in the past. However, since Vic is clean and has recently joined the Amish church it should not be an issue. Leaving her home and family to join her husband upon marriage in Lancaster, Pennsylvania is new and exciting for Eleanor. However when she moves and tragic circumstances happen with Vic’s younger brother, everything changes. Will Vic and Eleanor have a happy marriage she dreamed of? Will this work out? Where is God in all of this?

This is a unique book in that it deals strongly with alcoholism. I did find the novel interesting in that it did take quite a long time to build the storyline. It is a sensitive subject as the author shares in her epilogue. While not unheard of in the Amish community, it is rarely spoken about. It is a rather unique novel. I did find the novel quite interesting and I also appreciated that many of the facts and cities were accurate. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review, which I was happy to do. I would recommend Letters of Trust.

Second Time Around by Melody Carlson

 Mallory has just celebrated her daughter's marriage. It was not the most pleasant with her ex-husband walking back into their children’s lives. She’s now seeking what is next. All of a sudden, she finds out she inherits her grandmother’s tourist shop in Portside, Oregon. Since she’s at a crossroads in life, she’s off to look at the shop and decide what she can do to sell it. Enter her childhood crush Grayson Matthews. What exactly is he up to? What is his role in town? Will Mallory keep her grandmother’s shop? What about all the memories as a young child visiting her grandmother? And why does her grandmother leave the shop to Mallory and not other family members? 

Melody Carlson writes this exciting novel, that is very similar to a Hallmark movie. I did enjoy the storyline. Melody writes in such a way that keeps the reader intrigued. Simple hometown fun is found in this fantastic contemporary romance. I was given a free copy from the publisher which I highly recommend. Enjoy getting lost in a novel.

The Time Saving Mom by Crystal Paine

The Time Saving Mom by Crystal Paine teaches you how to juggle a lot, enjoy your life and accomplish what matters most. Crystal Paine is most well known for her blog on money saving tips. She has written several other books. Crystal is a very busy mom. She has much to do in her life, including care for a special needs child. This book does offer much insight, motivation, and wisdom. It is extremely simple which Crystal does share at the end of the book. I did find some things practical, but other things weren’t as practical as I would’ve liked. Personally, I would have liked a demonstration on using the Google Calendar that she recommends so much. I realize that something I can find easily. 

I did appreciate Crystal’s insight, concerning a stop doing list. I’ve never thought about writing out a list of things I would stop doing. Crystal also encourages you to step out and do the things you need to do as well as take personal responsibility for your life, your growth, and your actions. This book is definitely motivating and offers some practical tips along the way. I did find it very helpful. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review, which I was happy to do. I highly recommend The Time Saving Mom by Crystal Paine.

The Maid of Ballymacool by Jennifer Deibel

The Maid of Ballymacool by Jennifer Deibel shares the story of Brianna Kelly who has grown up at the boarding school. She labors intensely all her days trapped in horrid circumstances. Brianna doesn’t know much about her past other than being dropped off at the boarding school with a locket around her neck. A locket she soon looses. The head of the boarding school, Magee, is downright mean to Brianna, but why? Enter Michael Wray who must go off to the boarding school to help with his younger cousin who is struggling. What neither Michael nor Brianna consider is the impact Michael’s visit will have. 

I simply could not put this book down! I was enthralled! It is an amazing read. Throughly enjoyable. I have appreciated Jennifer Deibel’s previous works and this does not disappoint. I do disgree with the first sentence on the back of the book. It states, "A slow-building..." Nope. This was not slow building at all. I thought it was excellent! I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review which I was happy to do. I highly recommend! Run to read this book.

The Gift of the Unexpected by Jillian Benefield

The Gift of the Unexpected is the story of a personal journey used to inspire so many. When Jillian was expecting her second child, she found out he has Down's Syndrome. Jillian takes you on her journey of the path that her, her husband, family and friends traveled on and continue to travel on. Jillian shares the hard raw emotions of her path through pregnancy, birth and beyond. She also shares the many changes her mindset has had over the years.

This book is arranged so that Jillian shares her story, she then shares the gift she has received, and finishes each chapter with questions for reflection. I found Jillian's story very enlightening, both in the world of disability and in general. Jillian shares information very relevant to those who have a child with a disability (her choice of descriptor). I would encourage those interacting with people who have a disability or special needs to read this book. However, I also found it extremely relevant for those on the the journey of life. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review which I was happy to do. I highly recommend.

The Lord Bless You by Terry A. Smith

The Lord bless You by Terry A. Smith is a 28 day journey to experience God’s extravagant blessings. This wonderful devotional book begins with an introduction about the simple phrase “bless you”. The author explores using that phrase, and what it really means. It then goes into a daily devotional for 28 days. The first few pages of each day provide of some background and thought provoking information and then a question for the day. 

I found the Terry Smith provided good insight and really explores the concept of the Lord blessing an individual. The book is broken into several sections, including blessing, purpose, people, and gratitude. I was given a free copy from the publisher, for my honest review, which I was happy to do. I highly recommend this book.

Secrets of Sex & Marriage by Shaunti Feldhahn and Dr. Michael Sytsma

Secrets of Sex and Marriage by Shaunti Feldhahn and Dr. Michael Systma is a unique book with excellent information. This book is unique in that it offers much of the why behind sex in marriage. The authors have spent much time in research backing up their writing. I found the book to be different from other books in a good way. I also appreciated the frank talk and insight from the authors who have years of experience with helping couples. This book tackles many assumptions and myths and helps the reader to understand in a straightforward way. This book is a why behind sex, not a how to. Secrets of Sex & Marriage is written for the average person, not a counselor or therapist. (Although it could be used by a counselor or therapist.) This book offers new and well supported information. It was also easy to read. I was given a free copy from my publisher for my honest review which I was happy to do. 

The Cairo Curse by Pepper Basham

The Cairo Curse by Pepper Basham is the second book in the Freddie & Grace Mystery Series. I think it is crucial to read the first book in the series. This is one particular book that definitely lends itself to a series. As I started reading, I was confused by the background and some of the characters due to the fact that I did not read the first book in the series. There are multiple characters. Again, reading the first book would be helpful.

However, Pepper Basham does write in her award-winning style of suspense and romance. Readers will be captivated as a newlyweds, Lord and Lady Astley , head to Egypt on their honeymoon. It is quite the adventure and even dangerously thrilling with the outgoing character Lady Grace Astley. This book will take you on many exciting experiences.  I highly recommend this book in particularly if you read the first book in the series. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review, which I was happy to do. I would recommend The Cairo Curse.

What I Would Tell You by iz Tolsma

It all started with a DNA test. Tessa quickly realized that her cousin is not her biological cousin. How can this be explained? Will her mom tell her the truth? What is the big secret in the family history? What are the ramifications of her being Jewish?

What I Would Tell You by Liz Tolsma is part of the Echoes of the Past series. It is a dual timeline, Christian historical romance fiction. Flashback to 1941 and learn all about Mathilda, and her journey of early marriage, publishing a very risky newspaper to share the truth about the Nazis, as well as her unexpected pregnancy. This book takes you on the twists and turns of present day, with Tessa trying to navigate her life and find out where she belongs while flashing back to Mathilda and her struggles of reality of the Nazis in Greece. It is a unique setting as it does take place in Greece. I thoroughly  enjoyed What I Would Tell You by Liz Tolsma. This was a very good read and I would highly recommend. I was given a free copy from the publisher, for my honest review, which I was happy to do.

Everything is Just Beginning by Erin Bartels

I have to admit when I started reading Everything Is Just Beginning by Erin Bartels, I was intrigued and not necessarily hooked on the novel. But, read on! This fiction story takes place in1989. I found that an interesting year to set a novel in, rather unique and intriguing. Guitarist Michael Sullivan is kicked out of his band and moved in with his Uncle Mike. Across the street lives the Wheeler family, who is very well-known in the music industry, including Deb Wheeler. Deb is famous for her songs that she had recorded many years ago. Michael also meets Deb’s daughter, Natalie , who is beautiful and happens to be blind. Her father, Dusty, is very well-connected in the music industry. Having grown up with no significant home influence, Michael is taken aback by Natalie‘s family. He spends time with Natalie and enjoys getting to know her family. However, that will all have to soon come to an end. 

Admittedly once I had started the novel and was about a quarter of the way into it, I was hooked. I couldn’t put it down. I was a little surprised by the content since Revell typically publishes Christian content. This book was not overtly Christian. However it was a good read, and I would recommend. I was given a free copy from the publisher for my honest review, which I was happy to do. I would recommend Everything Is Just Beginning by Erin Bartels. 

Her Heart's Desire by Shelley Shepherd Gray

Mary Margaret Miller is off on an adventure for a much-needed break. She is headed to Pinecraft, Florida to leave her Amish lifestyle temporarily behind for a much needed break. She meets Betty and Lily on the bus trip. She’s amazed at their Amish similarities and lifestyles. They become fast friends and decide they will have quite the adventure being away from the Amish rules and laws. All of a sudden enter a handsome carpenter Jayson Raber. Unexpectedly Mary Margaret’s long time hometown rival Betsy shows up in Pinecraft. She is suddenly smitten with Michael the young Amish gentleman who works very hard since his parents have died, and he lives with his aunt and uncle. 

The adventure of five individuals have while in Pinecraft make up the tale of Her Heart’s Desire. It is a little difficult to follow with the two different romances. However, I did find the book very interesting, and was eager to read the story. Drift off into another world as you read Her Heart’s Desire. Learn more about the Amish lifestyle, including some of their jargon.

I was given a free copy from the publisher, for my honest review, which I was happy to do. I would recommend Her Heart’s Desire.