Book Review of A Heart Revealed by Julie Lessman

Title: A Heart Revealed (Winds Of Change bk.2)
Author: Julie Lessman
Genre: historical, romance , Christian
Stars(1-5): ****
Age rating: RE-17
Domestic violence, miscarriages and heated love scenes make this book intense, but perhaps too intense, and mature, than younger teen would enjoy.
Back cover:
 Her heart is tied to a youthful vow . . . but can true love set it free?
Ten years ago, Emma Malloy fled Dublin for Boston, running for her life. Her emotional wounds have finally faded, and her life is now full of purpose and free from the pain of her past. But when she falls for her friend Charity's handsome and charming brother, Sean O'Connor, fear and shame threaten to destroy her. Could Sean and Emma ever have a future together? Or is Emma doomed to live out the rest of her life denying the only true love she's ever known?

My Thoughts: 
Ask anyone, and they will tell you that I'm one of Julie Lessman's most devoted readers ( and that's not an exaggeration) and  loved every one of her books. So why didn't I give A Heart Revealed 5 stars? Probably because I just didn’t get to see Sean And Emma as I'd hoped,and instead we got a look at the other couples a bit more than usual.
The story picks up where A Hope Undaunted left off. Katie and Luke have finally been married, and the next one up on the marital chopping block is sweet-tempered Sean, who is purely focused on work and content to lead the life of a bachelor. But God has other plans, they in involve an equally sweet and shyly beautiful, Emma Malloy. However,  the story wouldn’t be Julie’s if it didn't have the sub-stories of our favorite Irish family, the O'Connors. Julie  writes her characters with a beating heart, and at times, I swear I can hear them breathing, which is why you end up falling in love with the whole O’Connor clan. One reason I couldn’t give AR a full 5 stars was due to  how slow the story seemed to start off. I mean Sean and Emma (the two main characters) didn't even kiss until much later in the book (which is practically a sin in romance books). In fact it almost felt as if Sean and Emma's story, as a whole, didn't really get going till chapter 12 or so. And I was excited to see more of them together, even from before I picked up the book.
When it comes to matters of faith, Mrs. Lessman is never at a lose. She tackles the gritty problems we don’t always see in Christian books, and  shows through her characters, that by putting our problems in God's loving and capable hands, we can find forgiveness, redemption, and our heat’s deepest desires revealed to us in blessings. I can never read her books without crying, because she writes with  a convicting passion, a true gift from God. And really, shouldn't that be what’s makes a wonderful novel? Of course the romance and drama doesn't hurt either.

Once again, Julie Lessman has written a romance novel that has more drama, passion and love for God in it, to keep you turning the page till the end. As always, I can't wait for her next novel.



Available September 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
 

If you'd like to know more about Julie Lessman and her books, go to: 
WEBSITE 
THE PUBLISHER 
GOODREADS 

*Bonus* 

Read and excerpt of A Heart Revealed by clicking on the link! 

More Reviews to be coming soon!

Love Y'all, 

Ashley

*I have been so blessed by Donna Hausler @Revell Books, for sending me a review copy of  A Heart Revealed in exchange for my honest opinion*

My Review of A Heart Divided by Kathleen Morgan

Title: A Heart Divided (Heart Of The Rockies Bk. 1)

Author: Kathleen Morgan

Genre: Historic inspirational romance

Publisher: Revell Books

Date released: May. 11

ISBN: 978-0-8007-1884-8

Stars (out of 5): ****

Age rating:  PG-14:

There are only a few comments about the two main characters and their activates on their honeymoon, which might raise questions from a younger reader. 

Back cover (from Revell): 

When fate brings them together, they must choose between family ties and love.

The Caldwells and Wainwrights have been feuding for decades. Still, Sarah Caldwell has misgivings when her father pressures her into distracting a ranch hand while he and her brothers rob the Wainwright place. When it becomes clear that hand is actually Cord Wainwright, heir of the Wainwright holdings, Sarah realizes things have gone too far.

As the feud boils over, Cord and Sarah make a most inconvenient discovery--they just might be falling in love. Can they betray their families to see where this attraction leads? Or will their families betray them?

Against the beautiful and wild backdrop of the Rocky Mountains in 1878 comes this sweeping saga of romance, betrayal, and forgiveness from beloved author Kathleen Morgan.

My Thoughts: 

A Heart Divided was a sweet, if superficial, romance that captured the Rockies with vivid and colorful writing that was a joy to read. When feuding families, the Caldwells and the Wainwrights, bring their children into the fray, things get sticky. Sarah and Cord are bitter enemies, because their no-good-rotten-cheatin'-scoundrels fathers let their hate run over unto their children. But, for Cord and Sarah, the feud took backseat to their new-found love. I found Sarah and Cord to be to typical, and I felt their romance was a very hasty affair. Even after things get really serious, Sarah believes she made a mistake in loving Cord.  I was hoping for a more exciting feud, with the Caldwell-Wainwright feud, but they weren't as trigger-happy as I would have liked (that came out wrong. LOL)  Ms. Morgan's writing style was very good and she didn't hold back when it came to thoughts and emotions. Unfortunately, it didn't seem like there was a clear biblical message in A Heart Divided, but I've never been one to catch on to these things easily. My favorite part of this book though, was Nick Wainwright, Cord's brother. He was sweet, handsome and had a heart for God that would make any woman swoon.  I can't wait to see if Ms. Morgan writes him his own book (which would be awesome!). Overall, A Heart Divided started out with so much promise, but after that, it fell flat like an open Coke. The characters were wonderful, but Sarah and Cord's romance was based mostly on attraction, and in the end, they were only a little closer to actually understanding true and abiding love. If you love western romances with action, then A Heart Divided is your escape to the Rockies.

Available May 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

 

If you'd like to know more about Kathleen Morgan and her books go to:   

The Publisher

Her Website

Goodreads

Love Y'all,

Ashley

My review of The Deepest Waters by Dan Walsh

 Title: The Deepest Waters

Author: Dan Walsh
Genre: Christian historical fiction with a touch of romance
Publisher: Revell Books

Date released: May 1st, 2011

ISBN: 0800719808
Stars (out of 5): ***
Age rating:  PG-12
This book was completely clean ( beside the occasional kiss) and would be appropriate for a 12 year old, although it wasn't very exciting and probably wouldn't be very entertaining to them.
Back cover (from Goodreads.com):
What began as a fairytale honeymoon in 1857 for John and Laura Foster aboard the steamship SS Vandervere becomes a nightmare when a hurricane causes their ship to sink into the murky depths of the Atlantic. Laura finds herself with the other women and children aboard a sailing ship while John and a hundred other men drift on the open sea on anything they could grab as the Vandervere went down. Suspecting her John is gone but still daring to hope for a miracle, Laura must face the possibility of life alone--and meeting her new in-laws without their son if she ever reaches New York. Readers will be holding their breath as they sail through this emotional and honest story of hope, faith, and love in the face of uncertainty. Talented author Dan Walsh skillfully tells an epic story through an intimate focus on two lost lovers. Inspired by real events, this moving novel will capture the hearts of all who dive into its pages.
My Thoughts: 
Deepest waters is the tragic tale of newlywed couple Laura and john forgets....and I though I'd never get to the end, but in a good way. The story starts out with Laura Foster on the a ship named the Cutlass, sailing away from a ship wreck and her doomed husband. The story was almost agonizing with how some people missed each other by mere seconds sometimes, or at least it seemed that way. And I almost didn't have enough courage to read the last chapter, least a certain someones, didn't make it. But as a historical novel, the details were spot on, and though the story was centered on romance, I didn't feel there was quite enough for me. But of course, to me, there is no such thing as too much romance. Unfortunately, this is one of those books, that when given the choice, you probably wouldn't read again just because you already know how it ends and that is the the most exciting part of the story. But this book is a nice edition to my bookshelf and if your a history nut, I know you'd find enough interesting facts and history to keep turning the pages.
 
*This book was given to me by the publisher in return for my honest review. I was not compensated in any way or influenced to write a positive review*

Available May 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. 

If you'd like to know more about Dan Walsh and his books, go to:
The Publisher
His Website
Goodreads
 


 I want to give a shout-out to Coco and Renee (Coco's Mommy). Happy 3rd Birthday sweet Coco and Happy Blogaversary to you Renee!!! Love, love, LOVE your blog and Coco is just the cutest, can't wait to see what you guys going to do next. ;~)

And  I have a lot more reviews to come, so be on the look out. 

Love Y'all,

Ashley

My Review: Masquerade by Nancy Moser

Last review!! WooHoo! I thought I'd never get to write those words. There have been so many great books this year, that, like all of my other blogging friends have done, I must comprise a list of my top 10 of 2010. So, be on the lookout for that post, later today.

Title: Masquerade
Author: Nancy Moser
Genre: Histroical inspirational romance 
Publisher: Bethany House
Date released: Aug. 10
ISBN: 978-0-7642-0751-8
Stars (out of 5):****
Age rating: PG-11
I found this book to be very clean and very Princess And The Pauper-like.

Back cover (from Bethany House):
1886. Charlotte Gleason embarks from England with conflicting emotions. She is headed for New York to marry one of America's wealthiest heirs--a man she has never even met. When her doubts gain the upper hand, she swaps identities with her maid Dora. She wants a chance at "real life," even if it means giving up financial security. For Charlotte, it's a risk she's willing to take. But what begins as the whim of a spoiled rich girl becomes a test of survival beyond her blackest nightmare.

For Dora, it's the chance of a lifetime. She is thrust into a fairy tale amid ball gowns and lavish mansions, yet is tormented by the possibility of discovery--and humiliation. And what of the man who believes she is indeed his intended? Is this what her heart truly longs for?

My Thoughts:
Masquerade is the tale of two friends; one rich, and the other a servant. When tragedy and disgrace befall the Gleason household, Mrs. Gleason arranges for her daughter, Charlotte, to accept the marriage proposal of a rich American. But sadly, Mrs. Gleason, who was going to accompany Charlotte on her voyage across the ocean, falls ill, and Charlotte’s maid, Dora, must take her place.
I really enjoyed this first encounter with Ms. Moser’s writing and I loved how she put drawings of the dresses, she wrote into the book. I liked the richness of her writing and the details. The characters were fun and had emotions that were real and often raw. The romance in the book was a little to...perfect, in my mind, but I did enjoy it none the less. I learned a lot while following Charlotte around Five Points and Dora around dress shops and mansions. One thing that I noticed, which really didn’t change the story or the plot, was the fact that when we happen upon Dora in New York, she always refers to herself as Charlotte and never Dora. But, other than that, the story was a nice read, which I would recommend.

*This book was given to me by the publisher in return for my honest review. I was not compensated in any way or influenced to write a positive review*

If you'd like to learn more about Nancy Moser and her books, go to:
The Publisher
Her Website
Goodreads







Love Y'all,
Ashley

My Review: In Every Heartbeat by Kim Vogel Sawyer

Only one left. I can't belive I actually did it! Well, almost.

Title: In Every Heartbeat
Author: Kim Vogel Sawyer
Genre: Historical inspirational romance

Publisher: Bethany House
Date released: Sep. 10
ISBN: 978-0-7642-0510-1
Stars (out of 5): **1/2
Age rating: PG-12
There wasn't anything untoward, but I did feel that I older reader and especially those in college, would enjoy this book more.

 Back cover (from Bethany House):
As three friends who grew up in the same orphanage head off to college together, they each harbor a special plan for the future. Libby Conley hopes to become a famous journalist. Pete Leidig believes God has called him to study to become a minister. And Bennett Martin plans to pledge a fraternity, find a place to belong, and have as much fun as possible. But as tensions rise around the world on the brink of World War I, the friends' differing aspirations and opinions begin to divide them, as well.


When Libby makes a shocking discovery about Pete's family, will it drive a final wedge between the friends or bond them in ways they never anticipated?

My Thoughts:

In Every Heartbeat centers on three friends, all orphans and all starting off their first year at college, together. Bennett Martin has only one goal while at college; to get in to a fraternity. Pete Leidig is on a mission to become a pastor, but not before he confronts the family who abandoned him. Libby Conley wants to be a journalist, but feels the teachers are holding her back. Bennett did add life to the plot, which I like and Pete with his family trials made the story line all that more interesting. When Libby started writing those romance serials for the women’s’ magazine, I had high hopes. But, besides all that, the story just feels short for me.  The romance between to Libby and Pete was…less then sparkling; it was a little rushed and I didn’t feel it was very romantic at all. To me it felt as if Libby and Pete “agreed” to fall in love together rather than just let it happen.  And I’m sure it’s just how I interpreted it, but I felt the author “put down” romance novels. See, when Libby starts writing the romance stories, Pete starts his campaign against them. In the end, Libby sees that Pete is right and that her romance stories are bad and shouldn’t be published.  What I didn’t see and I was pretty sure I would, was the author explaining how without God, romance is empty and filthy, but when we have romance that centers around God and is, in fact, a reflection of God’s love for us, then it is the purest and most lovely thing. This was not so in In Every Heartbeat and I’ll say that left me a little more than disappointed. I thought this book was okay, but wouldn’t read it again, that’s not to say, you shouldn’t.  

*This book was given to me by the publisher in return for my honest review. I was not compensated in any way or influenced to write a positive review*   

If you'd like to learn more about Kim Vogel Sawyer and her books, go to:
The Publisher
Her Website
Goodreads





Love Y'all,
Ashley

My Review: The Vigilante's Bride by Yvonne Harris

Only a few left! Almost done.

Title: The Vigilante's Bride
Author: Yvonne Harris
Genre: Historical inspirational romance

Publisher: Bethany House
Date released: August 1st 2010
ISBN: 978-0-7642-0804-1
Stars (out of 5): *** 
Age rating: PG-12:

The Hero in this story is the ring leader in many lynching mobs, which is a pleasant thing and may be a bit gruesome, though I didn't find that to be true in this book.

Back cover (from Bethany House):

Is Her Kidnapper the Only Man Who Can Keep Her Safe?

Robbing a stagecoach on Christmas Eve and abducting a woman passenger is the last thing Luke Sullivan expected to do. He just wanted to reclaim the money stolen from his pa, but instead ended up rescuing a feisty copper-haired woman who was on her way to marry Sullivan's dangerous enemy.
Emily McCarthy doesn't take kindly to her so-called rescue. Still, she's hoping Providence will turn her situation for good, especially when it seems Luke Sullivan may just be the man of her dreams. But Luke has crossed a vicious man, a powerful rancher not used to losing, and Emily is the prize he's unwilling to sacrifice.


My Thoughts:
The Vigilante’s Bride, started out strong, but got weak towards the end.


Emily is too old to stay at the orphanage, so the Board is sending her away to be a mail-order bride. No amount of arguing on her side will get them to change her mind, and next thing Emily knows, she half way to Montana. Enter Luke Sullivan, vigilante, and cattle-rustler-punisher. He hangs a criminal every other week, but the job has gotten too much for Luke, and he decides to head back to the only home he has known, to the orphanage. But, while stopped at a tavern, Luke over hears that his enemy, the man who stole his families land, is expecting a shipment on the stage, that very night. What ensues is calamity filled evening for both Emily and Luke.

I liked how Emily wasn’t a simpering female, but I feel as if her character could have been stronger and more detailed. Luke was one of the more interesting characters and definitely had a history I wanted to know more about. I did like the romance between Emily and Luke was sweet, but it seems that Bartholomew Axel, Luke's enemy and the man who ordered Emily from the orphanage to be his bride, didn’t care as much as the synopsis on the back of the book. I think I would have liked Bartholomew to fight more, to get Emily back; at least then there would have been more actions. The book had some nice details that draw me in, but the plot and overall story lost me and left me wanting. This is not to say, you shouldn’t give it a try.

*This book was given to me by the publisher in return for my honest review. I was not compensated in any way or influenced to write a positive review*

 
 
If you'd like to know more about Yvonne Harris and her books, go to:
The Publisher
Her Website
Goodreads





Love Y'all,
Ashley

My Review: Winter's End by Ruth Herne Logan

Five Down!

Title: Winter's End
Author: Ruth Herne Logan

Series: The North Country Series book 1
Genre: Contemporary inspirational romance

Publisher: Steeple Hill
Date released:  March 1st 2010
ISBN:0373875886 

Stars (out of 5):*****
Age rating: PG-14:

Back cover (from Goodreads):
After growing up in foster care, nurse Kayla Doherty's finally found a faith to rely on and a job she loves. But that's all put to the test when she's called to care for surly Marc DeHollander's dying father. Marc's struggling to keep his cattle farm afloat while dealing with his father's illness. He doesn't have time to fall for the beautiful hospice nurse. But as the frigid New York winter turns to spring, can he find a place for Kayla—and the Lord—in his heart?

My Thoughts: 
Winter's End is a heartbreaking romance, that I couldn't make myself put down. Marc is a no-nonsense farmer who thinks Kayla was tying her shoes when God was handing out brains. Kayla is a nurse, who tries not to get too close to the patients, though at times it's tough, but it's her past that keeps her heart frozen. Kayla and Marc are perfect for each other, even if they don't think so. I loved Marc’s little sister and his father. They were some of the best secondary characters I’ve had that pleasure of meeting. I don’t know much about northern New York, but I felt as if I was right there in the freezing cold snow with Kayla, Marc and the gang.


What Kayla had to go through when she was little, was tragic, but it added such depth.And I loved how Ms. Logan had the heroine, Kayla, working as a Hospice nurse. You don't see that very often and I really learned a lot about home care for the terminally ill. Overall, Winter’s End was a great book and I can’t wait to get my hands on Ms. Logan’s other two books!

*This book was given to me by the publisher in return for my honest review. I was not compensated in any way or influenced to write a positive review*

 
If you'd like to know more about Ruth Logan and her books, go to:
Her Website
The Publisher
Goodreads






Love Y'all,
Ashley

My Review: Driftwood Lane by Denise Hunter

Half a dozen left to go! WooHoo;)

Title: Driftwood Lane

Author: Denis Hunter

Series: Nantucket Love Story book 4

Genre: Contemporary inspirational romance

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Date released: July 6th 2010 

ISBN: 1595548009
Stars (out of 5): ****
Age rating: PG-12:
There is romance a plenty, but nothing untoward. But, some themes may be a bit mature for a middle reader.

Back cover (from Thomas Nelson):

Meridith can handle anything: guardianship of three distant siblings, a dilapidated Bed-and-Breakfast, even an ever-present handyman who's dismantling more than her fireplace--or can she?
When the death of Meridith's estranged father leaves her with custody of three siblings she's never met, she reluctantly goes to Nantucket to care for them--but only until their uncle returns from his trip. Little does she know, the uncle is already there under the guise of her friendly handyman, with plans of his own.

Will the love that grows between them be strong enough to overcome the secrets that brought them both to Driftwood Lane?

My Thoughts:

Driftwood Lane was a sweet and heartbreaking romance that I'm happy I got the chance to review.

The story centers on a strong and independent young women who has just inherited her three half-siblings.

Now, I did enjoy the story and I felt as if I was right there in Nantucket enjoying the misty winds and spectacular views, but some of the main characters got on my nerves.
The Uncle and the oldest girl were being unfair to the whole time and assuming the worst. I understood their feelings, but I just wish they could have been more open. And Meredith’s growing up years were full of uncertainties and hardship; not to mention emotional turmoil. I felt so bad for Meredith, and only a good author can make me feel for characters like that.
Of course, romance wasn't lacking in this book, as the story progressed it turned into borderline heartbreak, but at the end, everything that happened thus far, helped in shaping the relationship that Meredith and Jake now have together.

This was my first time reading anything by Denise Hunter and I can honestly say, I CAN'T wait for her next book, A Cowboy's Touch!

*This book was given to me by the publisher in return for my honest review. I was not compensated in any way or influenced to write a positive review*

 
  To learn more about Denise Hunter and her books, go to:
The Publisher
Her Website
Goodreads
 











Love Y'all,
Ashley

My Review: Still House Pond by Jan Watson

Three Down. I'm no anywhere close to done, but I'm getting there.

Title: Still House Pond

Author: Jan Watson
Genre: Historical inspirational

Publisher: Tyndall House
Date released: August 1st 2010
ISBN:1414323867 

Stars (out of 5): ***1/2
Age rating: PG-13:

The story is a little intense at some points and suggestive content between Manda and a mysterious man.

Back cover (from Tyndale House):

Lilly Gray Corbett loves living on Troublesome Creek, but she would much rather play with her best friend than watch her little brother and the twins. Her mama, Copper, is often gone helping to birth babies, and Lilly has to stay home. When Aunt Alice sends a note inviting her to visit in the city, Lilly is excited to go, and Copper reluctantly agrees to let her. Later, when they hear the news that the train crashed, Copper and her husband, John, rush to find out if their daughter is injured . . . or even alive.

My Thoughts:

Still House Pond is the continuation of the Troublesome Creek series and centers on Copper’s daughter Lilly and herself and their hired girl, Manda. An invitation for Lilly Gray to come visit her Deceased father’s sister arrives and disrupts their household. But Copper is too busy help to-be mothers, to see Lilly off, but asks Manda too instead. But, Manda has met a young man in town and as Manda and Lilly are waiting for the coach, the mysterious man shows up and this is Manda’s chance to get to better know him. What transpires after that is one a series of unfortunate. I very much disliked Manda’s sisters; they seemed so mean and hateful and treat Manda more like a slave instead of a sister. Lilly is just like any other twelve year old girl. She wants adventures outside of her childhood home and this trip is the perfect opportunity for her to be grown up and on her own…sort of. I liked how the authors had many plot twists, that I had never expected and that made the story exciting. The overall story was gripping and real and the characters were rich in details. But, I felt like I was missing something by not reading the author's first series, which ties into this book. The only BIG thing I also didn't like about this book was that the story was rushed and too short.  

*This book was given to me by the publisher in return for my honest review. I was not compensated in any way or influenced to write a positive review*

To learn more about Jan Watson and her books, go to:
The Publisher
Her Website
Goodreads






Love Y'all,
Ashley

My review: The Anonymous Bride by Vickie McDonough

Two reviews down, only about a dozen left!

Title: The Anonymous Bride

Author: Vickie McDonough

Series: Texas Boarding House Brides Book 1

Genre:Inspirational,romance, historical
Publisher: Barbour Publishing
Date released: April 1, 2010

ISBN: 978-1602606968

Stars (out of 5): ****
Age rating: PG-14

This book is pretty clean but, one of the characters does un-knowingly take part in pre-marital sex, but I felt that the author handled the situation with grace in a tasteful fashion.

Back cover (from Goodreads):

Check yourself into the Texas Boardinghouse Brides series by Vickie McDonough, where you’ll meet Luke Davis, marshal of Flat Rock, Texas, who flippantly tells friends he’d get married if the right woman ever came along. When three mail-order brides are delivered to Luke a month later, he’s in an uncomfortable predicament. How will he ever choose his mate? Rachel Hamilton’s long-time admiration for Luke recently turned to love. So when three mail-order brides appear, she panics. Will she find the courage to tell Luke that she loves him? Or take an anonymous part in the contest for his hand

My Thoughts:
First off, I’m going to say I really liked this book! Some have said that though The Anonymous Bride isn’t "LOL" funny, the antics and the situation made it an overall fun read, I completely agree.

The book starts off with the fair town of Lookout welcoming back one of their citizens, Luke Davis, who just got of the military after eleven years of service. But not everyone is glad Luke has returned. Particularly he’s childhood sweetheart Rachel, who, eleven years ago, ran off and married the richest man in town, instead of Luke, like they both thought. Now Luke and Rachel, both of who are still hurting, avoid each other like the plague. Unfortunately, Luke's troublesome cousins make it their job to see Luke marry up, one way or another.
The story was well written and very entertaining. The relationship between Luke and Rachel was heartbreaking. When the mail-order bride troubles start, Luke turns to Rachel for help, as a friend; which neither really wants. But Luke refuses to forgive Rachel for what she did. And Rachel can't tell a soul the reasons behind her impromptu wedding.

I liked all of the characters in Anonymous but, Luke’s two cousins and little Jack really stole the show for me. They were fun and interesting and I look forward to reading more about them in the second book, Second Chance Brides. More importantly this book really showed how forgiving other isn’t easy and that we are selves can’t do it, only God can give us the strength. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good mail-order bride romance or someone who needs a book that will brighten up an otherwise dreary day.

*This book was given to me by the publisher in return for my honest review. I was not compensated in any way or influenced to write a positive review*

To learn more about Vickie McDonough and her books, go to:
The Publisher
Her Website
Goodreads
Make sure to check out her upcoming and new releases page. Second Chance Bride has just come out and I can't wait to get my lil' hands on it. LOL;)




Love Y'all,
Ashley

My Review: The Sheriff's Surrender by Susan Page Davis

Everyone is making up New Year's resolution for 2011, and I have a few of my own I've come up with, but one of them will actually begin before the new year. See, I've been so behind on reviews that I have a stack of them waiting to be written, so my resolution is too complete all my book reviews before 2011, so that I'll be able to start the new year with a fresh book review pile. And so, the challenge begins...NOW!

Title: The Sheriff's Surrender

Author: Susan Page Davis
Series: The Ladies' Shooting Club Series #1

Publisher: Barbour publishing
Genre: Inspirational historical romance
Date released:  December 1st 2009
ISBN: 1602605629

Stars (out of 5): ***
Age rating: 12 & up
There wasn't anything inappropriate and there was hardly any romance to speak of. There were two murders, but not gruesome enough to be "scary".

Back cover (from):
A murder in Fergus, Idaho, has the town’s women scared. But the men don’t seem able to stop the rash of thefts, assaults, and vandalism that follow. Half a dozen women band together to arm themselves against trouble. The gunsmith's plain sister, the emporium's owner, a couple of rancher's wives and saloon girls take their shooting lessons seriously. The men are skeptical at first and slightly amused. The new minister's wife shocks the town by joining the club, and other women follow her lead. When they show no sign of letting up on their drill, the men beg the sheriff to disband the club and put their women back where they belong. Those are fighting words to the ladies. Domestic rebellion threatens until a new murder grabs everyone's attention. Will the sheriff and his men find the killer and put him away? Or will that honor belong to the Ladies' Shooting Club?

My Thoughts:
I liked The Sheriff's Surrender, but didn't "love it". I thought the characters were written well and I liked the overall style of this book. At first seeing this book, I thought the story would center around Gert, but that was not so. The plot focused more on the general store owner and Ladies Shooting club, as a whole. And for a romance novel, there didn't seem to be a whole lot at all and the only thing that kept me reading was the murder mystery aspect of the story. Though, I will say, I enjoyed the antics of Ladies Shooting Club and that also made the story more exciting.

Overall, I liked this book, but I probably wouldn't read it again.

*This book was given to me by the publisher in return for my honest review. I was not compensated in any way or  influenced to write a positive review*

To learn more about Susan Page Davis and her books go to:

The Publisher

Her Website
Goodreads





Love Y'all,
Ashley

Revell Blog Tour review: A Memory Between Us by Sarah Sundin

First off, I'd like to apologize to Donna Hausler for not getting any of these latest reviews to her on time. Things have been more than crazy around here, and I'm so sorry I haven’t been the best reviewer and have made your job a little more difficult.

Now onto my review of ...

Title: A Memory Between Us (Wings Of Glory Bk.2)

Author: Sarah Sundin

Genre: Historical, Christian, Romance

Publisher: Revell

Date released: Sept.1 2010

 ISBN: 978-0-8007-3422-0

Stars (out of 5): **** 1/2

Age rating: PG-15:
Rape is a central theme in this book, though; it's shown from a Christian stand point.

Drinking and smoking are also mentioned, but hey! It was the 40's, everyone was doing it, and I think it made it seem more authentic and less like a overly censored war novel

Back cover (from Revell):

Can they overcome the past to find a brighter future together?

Major Jack Novak has never failed to meet a challenge--until he meets army nurse Lieutenant Ruth Doherty. When Jack lands in the army hospital after a plane crash, he makes winning Ruth's heart a top-priority mission. But he has his work cut out for him. Not only is Ruth focused on her work in order to support her orphaned siblings back home, she also is determined not to give her heart to any man. As the danger and tension of World War II rise to a fever pitch, Jack and Ruth will need each other more than ever. Can Jack break down her defenses? Or are they destined to go their separate ways?

From the English countryside to the perilous skies over France, A Memory Between Us takes you on a journey through love, forgiveness, and sacrifice.

 My Thoughts:
 I never got the chance to read the first book in The Wings Of Glory series, but I found after finishing this book, that I really didn't need. Though, now I can't wait to get my hands on bk. 1, A Distant Melody.

Jack Novak is a dashing military man, who can't resist a challenge.
Ruth Doherty is just the challenge Major Novak has been looking for.
When these two finally butte heads, can you say "sparks"?

I love the high flying adventure we experience every time we hop into the cockpit with the handsome Jack Novak. Ms. Sundin's attention to detail and historical facts are second to none. I truly felt as if it were the 1940's and in the thick of war. The characters each had their own back ground; even the secondary characters had no lack of detail to keep them well-rounded and richly written.

Ruth had a tragic past that has kept her from loving anyone, especially a man. I found Ruth's story gripping, and if there was anyone who needed to know that God as in control, it would be Ruth Doherty. I loved how, as the story progressed, Ruth and Jack came to rely on God more, and the spiritual message of giving up our control and giving it to God, was convicting and really spoke to my heart. The scenery that Sarah Sundin used, especially the birds-eyed view of war-torn Europe, gave me, the reader, a breath taking trip into history. Though, I’d have to say that Jack Novak was my least favorite character. Yes, he was handsome, and yes, he did learn a lesson, but I felt his story was too rushed and that his emotions were all over the place. One moment he'd be in love with Ruth and the next condemning her to Devil's domain. Towards the end, he got better, but I wish that he could have been a little less confusing in his feelings and actions.
Besides that, I really enjoyed this book and if you're looking for a GREAT WWII novel, look no further.

*Many thanks to Donna Hauler @Revell for sending me a review copy of A Hope Undaunted. This review is my honest opinion of this book and I am in no any compensation for a good review from the publisher and/or the author.*

 

To learn more about Sarah Sundin and her great books, go to:

Her Website

The Publisher

 Goodreads

Also, make sure to enter her latest contest.

Here are the datails:

To celebrate Sarah is giving one lucky winner A Movie and Memory Prize Package! One grand prize winner will receive:

•Make-your-own-photo book from Mypublisher.com (Capture your own Memories)
•Netflix Subscription (New or Nostalgic Movies delivered right to your house)
•Starbucks gift card (To keep your engine revvin’)
•Gourmet chocolate (A favorite in the 1940’s and now)
•British specialty teas in carved wooden box (Timeless tradition)
•Miniature model of a B-17 Flying Fortress bomber & C-47 cargo plane (Everyone needs a few toy planes)
•Big Band music CD (Break out your dancing shoes)
•WWII authentic poster playing cards (Cards – a perfect game for two)
•Keep Calm and Carry On (Uplifting sayings WWII, a boost for troubled times)
contest runs 9/27 - 10/17!

 Click HERE to go directly to the contest link.
I hope Y'all  get a chance to enter and that you have a GREAT week!
Love Y'all,
Ashley 

Revell Blog Tour: A Hope Undaunted by Julie Lessman

It seems as if I'm always the last one. Last one to be at a party, last one to read a great book, even the last one to be born (in my family, at least). This is why I don't think I could ever become a writer. The deadline alone would be my greatest downfall, that and that fact that when I have to write something, I get  a serious case of writers’ block. I've been so out of it this week with school and all, that I can't believe it's taken me this long to post this review, But it in no way reflects on what quality this book is, cause it is truly top-notch.

Title: A Hope Undaunted (Winds Of Change bk.1)

Author: Julie Lessman
Genre: Historical, Christian, romance
Publisher: Revell Books
Date released: Sept. 1 2010
ISBN: 
Stars (out of 5): *****!
Age rating: PG-15:
 This book is EXTREMELY tense, with plenty of passionate kissing. Because it's during Prohibition, drinking, and alcohol in general, is mentioned. Without giving too much away, the theme of children born out of wedlock is an under lying plot, that adds depth and realisticness to the book.

Back cover (from Revell):
What happens when the boy she loved to hate becomes the man she hates to love?

The 1920s are drawing to a close, and feisty Katie O'Connor is the epitome of the new woman--smart and sassy with goals for her future that include the perfect husband and a challenging career in law. Her boyfriend Jack fits all of her criteria for a husband--good-looking, well-connected, wealthy, and eating out of her hand. But when she is forced to spend the summer of 1929 with Luke McGee, the bane of her childhood existence, Katie comes face-to-face with a choice. Will she follow her well-laid plans to marry Jack? Or will she fall for the man she swore to despise forever?

My Thoughts:
Summer 2009: Just Finished A Passion Denied only to find that Julie's next book called *flips to back of the book* A Hope Undaunted won't be coming out till September OF NEXT YEAR!!! Nooooooooooooo

One year and two months later: Oh My Word!!! I can't believe I finally have Julie's new book in my little southern hands! I swear when I opened the package from Revell, I heard heavenly fan fair. I LOVED A Passion Denied and A Hope Undaunted centers on the littlest O'Connor, Katie Rose. Katie was a spunky little 11 years old, but now at 18 Katie is a modern woman on a mission. To become a laywer, with the perfect husband, and fight for women’s' rights. Queue Luke McGee. The bane of Katie's existence and the man who has captured her heart.


I absolutely LOVE Luke. He is dashing, dangerous and has is fiercely devoted to family and has a passion for God that shines brighter then the sequins on a flapper's dress. Katie is just the opposite. She wants a neat and stable life without any surprises, and list for everything. If it’s not on the list, than it ain't important to Katie, and unfortunately God isn't on it.


Julie Lessman's books once again, take me on an emotional roller coaster with loops of passion and corkscrew intensity. Reading A Hope Undaunted was like coming back from summer camp: You had fun while you were there, but that there is nothing quite like coming home.


Julie fills her books to the brim with historical detail that transports you right into the Roaring 20's and God's undeniable truths. Katie struggles with letting God take control, but both she and Luke both learn that when we try to do things our way, they don't go the way we think they will. And that God has something beyond our comprehension for our future, if we just trust in Him.
A Hope Undaunted is the BEST BOOK so far this year, and if you haven't had the chance to read it yet, I'm telling you, you just gotta! Even if it means shoplifting from B&N (okay, not really, but you get the idea).
I would definitely recommend any and all of Julie's books, especially this one.

*Many thanks to Donna Hauler @Revell for sending me a review copy of A Hope Undaunted. This review is my honest opinion of this book and I am in no any compensation for a good review from the publisher and/or the author.*





Available September 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group

To learn more about Julie Lessman ans her books go to:

The Publisher

Her Website

Goodreads.

And make sure to go to her websites side bar and click  Journal Jots to  check out her new blog/diary she has started. They're uplifting and convicting and always fun to read.




Oh and I almost forgot, Julie is hosting a great giveaway event. This is the official description (not written by me).

It's a Giveaway Extravaganza! Kindle Giveaway, Facebook Party and Book Bomb - OH MY!

Visit the Roaring 20’s with Julie Lessman in the Technology and Romance KINDLE Giveaway! Julie’s latest series has just ‘shimmied’ it’s way onto the scene with book 1 in The Winds of Change series, A Hope Undaunted!

Enter The Technology and Romance KINDLE Giveaway!
One Grand Prize winner will receive a KINDLE preloaded with Julie Lessman's latest title. The Prize Pack (valued at over $150.00) includes:
* A brand new KINDLE, with Wi-Fi
* A Hope Undaunted by Julie Lessman
To enter, simply click on the icons below to fill out the entry form and be sure to tell your friends about the contest.
Oh, and enter soon! Winner will be announced on October 7th.


Not only is Julie hosting the fabulous KINDLE giveaway, but also a FACEBOOK PARTY and a BOOK BOMB!!!


How does a gift certificate and a signed book given away EVERY 10 minutes during an hour-long Facebook party sound? (Yeah, we think it sounds pretty great too!) On October 7th at 5pm PST (6:00 MST, 7:00 CST, & 8:00 EST) Julie is inviting you to attend the A Hope Undaunted Facebook Party! She'll announce the winner of the KINDLE and in addition to the prizes every 10 minutes, she'll also be giving away great prize baskets filled with even more Romance and Technology (Netflix, Starbucks, Amazon.com, Champagne body Lotion, Pearls, & more!)!
BUT WAIT … there’s more (and no, this is not an infomercial … it’s WAY better!). If you participate in the Book Bomb on October 7th you’ll be entered to win a $50 gift certificate to Amazon.com. All you need to do to participate is buy a copy of A Hope Undaunted on October 7th and send your receipt (just transaction number from store, store name & date) to amy@litfusegroup.com! Each book purchased equals one entry, buy 10 books get 10 entries!
September 19-25: A Hope Undaunted will be making an appearance on blogs across the country (and beyond!) in Revell's blog tour!
September 20th: The Technology and Romance KINDLE Giveaway launches (contest runs 9/20 - 10/6)
October 7th: Book Bomb Day (where everyone is encouraged to buy the book online at the same time!) and Facebook Party - meet and chat with Julie, win some great prizes & find out who won the KINDLE!
Want to help us spread the word about all this fun and be entered to win a $50 Amazon.com gift certificate?
Share Julie's Giveaway Extravaganza on Facebook, Twitter or your blog and we'll enter your name into our random drawing to win 50 smackers to Amazon.com!

If you've read AHU, I'd love to hear what you think!
I hope Y'all have a GREAT weekend.
Love Y'all,
Ashley

Revell blog tour ~ My Review: Making Waves by Lorna Seilstad

I know I'm a little late in posting my of Making Waves, but unfortunately I've been sick and in bed all week, too weak to even get on my computer. Okay, okay, so I've really been on the couch watching episodes of Big Brother, eating who-knows-what and being lazy. But, that's what I do when I get sniffles, so don't judge me. LOL;~)

 
Title:Making Waves (Lake Manawa Summer bk.1)

Genre:  Historical christian romance

Author: Lorna Seilstad

Publisher: Revell

Date released: Sept. 1st. 2010.

ISBN: 978-0-8007-3445-9

Stars (out of 5): *****

Age rating: PG-12 up
 Aside from a  from a kiss (or maybe two), there wasn't anything overtly inappropriate in Making Waves. There is a gambling house/ hog farm that plays an important role in the story plot and there is mention of prostitution, but all from a Christian prospective.

Back cover (from Revell):

Sun, summer, and a scrumptious sailing instructor. What more could a girl want?
When spunky Marguerite Westing discovers that her family will spend the summer of 1895 at Lake Manawa, Iowa, she couldn't be more thrilled. It's the perfect way to escape her agonizingly boring suitor, Roger Gordon. It's also where she stumbles upon two new loves: sailing, and sailing instructor Trip Andrews.
But this summer of fun turns to turmoil as her father's secrets threaten to ruin the family forever. Will free-spirited Marguerite marry Roger to save her father's name and fortune? Or will she follow her heart--even if it means hurting the family she loves?
Full of sharp wit and blossoming romance, Making Waves will whisk you away to a breezy lakeside summer holiday.

My Thoughts:
I could go all year, and never read a book this good. The story center on Ms.Marguerite Westing and her family, as they spend the summer at beautiful Lake Manawa.
I LOVED this book, and the characters were charming and intriguing while still being real and rich. Mrs. Seilstad made quit a splash with this first novel. Her writing style made this book co me to life with all the details about sailing and Lake Manawa. I felt as if I could feel the warm breeze running through my hair as I sat along with Marguerite on that first boat trip; I could hear the sounds of the midway and picture the pigpen gambling hall as if it was right in front of me. And don't even get me started on Trip Andrews. Be still my beating heart. Trip was handsome, complex and an oh-so-strong man of God. He was truly swoon worthy, unlike his advisory, the weaselly Roger Gordon. I liked that, even at the end, you still couldn't tell who Marguerite would choose. There were plenty of twists and turns to keep the book moving, though I found more often than not, that I wanted to savor each page
*I have been so blessed by Donna Hausler @Revell Books, for sending me a review copy of Making Waves in exchange for my honest opinion*

Available September 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

To Learn More About Lorna Seilstad and her book go to:

Her Website
The Publisher
Goodreads

Make sure you go to Lorna's "My Stories" page, to see what books she has in store for us in the coming years. I'm just sad  we got to wait a whole  year,   till we'll get to visit beautiful Lake Manawa again. :(




Love Y'all,
Ashley

My review: Courting Morrow Little by Laura Frantz

Title: Courting Morrow Little

Author: Laura Frantz
Genre: Historical Christian Romance

Publisher: Revell Books

Date released: July 1st. 2010

ISBN: 978-0-8007-3340-7

Stars (out of 5): ****
Age rating: PG-13

There were about half a dozen "pecks on the cheek" and only a hand full of kisses, throughout the whole book. Of course, the main characters are a married couple in the book, and so expurgate to see some things like that. Although, those scenes are very  brief . 

Back cover (from Revell):

Caught between the wilderness and civilization, Morrow Little must find her way to true love.

Morrow Little is haunted by the memory of the day her family was torn apart by raiding Shawnee warriors. Now that she is nearly a grown woman and her father is ailing, she must make difficult choices about the future. Several men--ranging from the undesired to the unthinkable--vie for her attentions, but she finds herself inexplicably drawn to a forbidden love that both terrifies and intrigues her. Can she betray the memory of her lost loved ones--and garner suspicion from her friends--by pursuing a life with him? Or should she seal her own misery by marrying a man she doesn't love

This sweeping tale of romance and forgiveness will envelop you as it takes you from a Kentucky fort through the vast wilderness of the West.

 My Thoughts:

There aren’t many books out market today  that are set in the pre-Rev war time period or have Indians as the main characters. So right off the bat, Courting Morrow Little procured my interest. And as soon as I started reading, I fell in love……with almost everything. I loved how richly written it was and how the whole story flowed with literary grace (you know that I mean?). Yet, it wasn’t so wordy, that I felt like I was reading the Geneva Bible. CML is my first encounter with author Laura Frantz, but from what I had heard about her and her debut novel, The Frontiersman’s Daughter, I knew her books would definitely be going on my “keepers’ shelf”. The characters were believable and well rounded with pains, sorrows and struggles of their own. The excitement and dramatic tension, which there was plenty of, made me never want to put it down. My only problem with CML and the reason I only gave it 4 stars, was the fact that we only got to see things from Morrow’s POV. I really wish we could have seen a chapter or two from the POV of another characters besides just Morrow.

But, Laura Frantz revealed to me a little bit ago, that her next book coming out will have both hero and heroin’s POV narrating, explain and describing scenes (I hope its okay, Ms. Frantz, that I said that). So, I’m SUPER excited about her newest book to come out!!! I would recommend this book to other “history nuts” like me, for sure.

Available July 2010 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.” To learn more about Laura Frantz and her books go to:

The Publisher

Her Blog

Goodreads

  Love Ya,

Ashley



*My many thanks to Donna Hausler @ Revell Books, for providing me a review copy of Courting Morrow Little.  These are my honest thoughts on this book and are in no way determined by the publisher and/or the author of Courting Morrow Little.*