Tyndale Review- The Story Keeper By Lisa Wingate

Good, early morning to you everyone! I'm sorry if I become scarce...10 page papers and 3 week deadlines do not mix...I'm really feeling that first part of deadlines. ;) Not enough to quit reading though! 

*About the Author*

Selected among BOOKLIST'S Top 10 of 2012 and Top 10 of 2013, Lisa Wingate skillfully weaves lyrical writing and unforgettable Southern settings with elements of women's fiction, history, and mystery to create stories that Publisher's Weekly calls "Masterful" and ForeWord Magazine refers to as "Filled with lyrical prose, hope, and healing.” Lisa is a journalist, an inspirational speaker, a reviewer for the New York Journal of Books, and the author of over over twenty novels and countless magazine pieces. 
 
Her books have held positions on many bestseller lists, both in the U.S. and internationally. She is a seven-time ACFW Carol award nominee, a Christy Award nominee, an Oklahoma Book Award finalist, a Christianity Today Book Award nominee, an Inspy Award nominee, a two-time Carol Award winner, a LORIES Best Fiction Award winner, and a Utah Library Award winner. Recently, the group Americans for More Civility, a kindness watchdog organization, selected Lisa along with Bill Ford, Camille Cosby, and six others, as recipients of the National Civies Award, which celebrates public figures who work to promote greater kindness and civility in American life. 

*Book Description*

Jen Gibbs is trying her best to prove her worth the small publishing firm where she works, so naturally she's horrified when a piece of the one thing she's not supposed to touch ends up on her desk. A manuscript from Slush Mountain. Torn between sneaking out to put the book back and digging into it's pages, Jen decides maybe it couldn't hurt to take a peak. When the pages are filled with mystery, secrecy, and an air of realism, she realizes she needs to find the author to the secret masterpiece. Determining she knows the answer, she sets out only to find the author  suffering from problems and issues of his own. When a real life mystery ensues, Jen knows she must know the answer...but will they ever unveil what they're looking for? Will they even know?

*What I liked*

Though I've never read Lisa Wingate before, I felt this was a nice start. Believable characters, a surprising story line, and deep faith and mystery throughout the book colors every page of this 400+ page book. 

*What I didn't like*

Though overall I liked the book, I faced many of the issues a normal reader faces. I was completely confused until about halfway through the book. I liked that the author switched from one regular chapter to one chapter from the manuscript but at the same time you have to be fully alert and on edge to know what's going on. 

*My Rating*

I give The Story Keeper...

 5 stars!!

*My overall opinion*

                               

The Story Keeper is complex and amazing and is not at all how you expect it to be, making it a deep read. Make sure to add this one to your shelf but don't pull it out until you're sure you're ready for this twisty, special, edge of your seat read!

     

 *Where to buy it*

Deepershopping

Walmart

Barnes & Noble

Christianbook

Stop by later for "The Tutors Daughter" by Julie Klassen!

Happy Reading,

Nicki

Revell Reviewer-At Home in Last Chance By Cathleen Armstrong

Afternoon everyone!! Hope you all are having a fantastic start to your week!! After working in the library, I'm ready to finish this review for y'all and dig into the Julie Klassen titles I found!

*About the Author*

I grew up in New Mexico knowing two things were true:  Any time you could spend reading was time well spent, and that one day I, too, wanted to write books. Both certainties presented problems. In the first instance, my parents and teachers felt that while reading was good, even wonderful, time must also be allotted to chores, homework, and even social interaction. Psssh. They never did convince me on that one.

The second difficulty was harder to get around. I knew I was supposed to write what I was familiar with, but my family had not cooperated in placing us someplace interesting. I thought if they had tried just a little harder, if my granddad had homesteaded in, oh, New York City, or my parents had taught school in, say, China, I would be loaded with fascinating things to write about. But as it was, we all lived in ordinary New Mexico, with its ordinary hundred mile vistas, ordinary thunderstorms boiling up on a hot summer afternoon and pounding the earth before they rumbled away at sunset. And ordinary people with names like Baca and Begay whose roots reached from hundreds to thousands of years into the pale, gravely soil. You can see my predicament.

The reading never stopped, but the writing was put on hold as I married my high school sweetheart, and moved with him first to Arizona and then to California. Our three children came, grew up, married and began families of their own with a speed that still makes my head spin.

Finally it is time to write, and I have long since realized that the last word that describes my home state is ordinary. Long ago it began to be known as The Land of Enchantment.  I can’t wait to show you why.

*Book Description*

Kaitlyn Reed and Steven Braden have something in common: They both run from their problems. Only now, Kaitlyn is desperately trying to win her daughter's heart back and show her that she's here to stay. Naturally, the seven year old girl is skeptical-as is the whole town of last chance-making her try all the harder. When Stephen Braden, Elizabeth's handsome, bad boy grandson seems to think he can charm her, Kaitlyn does what she does best. Tries to ignore him and thinks he'll go away if she runs. Then with an unexpected visit from her parents, Kaitlyn feels she's not any better then before. Will people ever learn to accept her? Will she ever change for the better?

Stephen Braden is disappointed to learn what his family thinks of him. Especially when the sweet, loving grandmother warns him to stay away from Kaitlyn Reed because he's too much of a charmer. Determined to prove them wrong, Steven does his best to change...but will Kaitlyn ever get close enough to see it? When an unexpected and unwelcome change occurs Stephen makes sure to take advantage of the situation by stepping up and showing his family he's not the careless charmer they think him to be. Will they ever give him the benefit of the doubt?

*What I liked*

This was a really sweet story. At first, I didn't like Kaitlyn very much but everyone has their imperfections and I came to love her and Stephen both. Also, I didn't read the first stories and still read right along fine. The characters were real and I found myself so much in love with Elizabeth, as if she was my grandmother instead of Stephen's.

*What I didn't like*

At first, I didn't really like Kaitlyn's hair on the cover, it wasn't something I'd normally pick up in Lifeway but I got over it and it fit her personality as I read along. I also couldn't stand Kaitlyn's mother acting so much above everyone else but that just means Cathleen was doing a fabulous job!

*My Rating*

I give At Home in Last Chance...

4 stars!!

*My overall opinion*

At Home in Last Chance, while part of a series, reads as a stand alone and is full of second chances, hope, and love!

                                                                   

 *Where to buy it*

Deepershopping

Barnes & Noble

Christianbook

Have an amazing week everyone!!

Happy Reading,

Nicki

Tyndale Review-The Shadow of Your Smile by Susan May Warren

Hey everyone!! I got this amazing book from Tyndale Rewards...

*About the Author*

Susan and husbandI grew up in Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis, and became an avid camper from an early age. My favorite fir-lined spot is the north shore of Minnesota - it's where I met my husband, honeymooned and dreamed of living. The north woods easily became the foundation for my first series, The Deep Haven series.based on a little tourist town along the shores of Lake Superior. I have to admit - I'm terribly jealous of Mona, the heroine of my first full-length book, Happily Ever After, a Christy Award Finalist published in 2004 with Tyndale/Heartquest.

Our family moved home from the mission field in June 2004 -- and now we live in the beautiful town I'd always dreamed of! God has amazed me anew with His provision, and blessings -- and allowed me a season when I can write full time for Him.

*Book Description*

Noelle and Eli Hueston's relationship has seemed to have reached the end of it's rope...after 25 years together. When a tragic accident occurs and part of Noelle's memory is lost, the only thing she remembers is how she used to dream of her life turning out. Her husband and son were never really part of the plan and Noelle begins to realize how far from her dream her life has turned out. Viewing her husband as the old, tired grouch he's turned out to be, Noelle is horrified to realize she's married to him. Will their relationship ever be the same as it once was, back when they were young and in love? Or will Eli lose his one true love forever?

Struggling with the death of her best friend, Emma Nelson is desperately trying to find the songs and lyrics of her heart once more. When Kyle, a dear long lost friend, shows up in the most unexpected of places can she-with his help-find herself in the midst of tragedy and learn to love again?

*What I liked*

I loved all the characters in this story. Susan did a fabulous job of intertwining two precious stories on romance of faith and yet they were separate. The cover knows what's up with this book too!

*What I didn't like*

I was supposed to not like something?! Oh! Well then I guess I could say, if you're looking for a light read...leave this one on the shelf until next time. But READ it!! 

*My Rating*

~My Rating is 5 stars~

*My Overall Opinion*

The Shadow of Your Smile by Susan May Warren is a heart wrenching, inspiring romance novel on love, grief, and staying together no matter what.

 *Where to buy it*

                                                                    

 Deepershopping

 Christianbook

 Barnes & Noble

Walmart

Thanks for looking and come back tonight for a giveaway!!

Happy Reading,

Nicki

Revell Review-Hidden Agenda By Lisa Harris

Morning y'all!! I know I've been temporarily absent but maybe you'll forgive me when I tell you I was working in the Church library and that I have some Julie Klassen reviews coming your way. ;) First though, I have 3 or 4 books that NEED to be reviewed first. 


Like this one:

*About the Author*

*Book Description*

Michael Hunt is on the run...but his family thinks he's dead! When a dangerous situation becomes deadly, he learns that he must learn to trust in other people and allow them to help him. The question is, who can he trust? When the son and daughter of the man that wants him dead rescue him just in time, Michael blames his feelings of Olivia on their situation. But is it more? Will he learn who to trust in time? Or will it be too late?

When Olivia Hamilton's obviously naive younger brother suggests that they rescue the man in grave danger, due to her father, Olivia thinks he may have lost his mind. After rescuing the young man, any doubts Olivia had about the awful truth of their father fled just as they were fleeing their own father. Realizing that they did the right thing in saving Michael, she's still shaken after multiple encounters with her father's cronies. Will they ever be safe? Will her heart?

*What I liked*

I loved the suspense in this...action packed from the beginning, yet it was different from other mysteries I've read. It wasn't the same old story. It was fresh, romantic, and just a really special read! I loved Michael & Olivia's relationship and the bravado Olivia's brother showed in taking a stand, especially taking into account that Ivan is deaf.

*What I didn't like*

I was so sad when I finished!! However, this book is not for immature readers as it can get rough (abuse, kidnap, and murder but that is to be expected in a suspense novel such as this).

*My Rating*

~My Rating is 5 stars!!~

*My Overall Opinion*

Hidden Agenda is a heart stopping, pulse pounding fictional story on trust, love, and learning who we are. The characters were inspiring, and remind readers to "Be strong and of good courage" and to trust God through it all. (Deuteronomy 31:6)

 *Where to buy it*

Barnes & Noble

Walmart

Deepershopping

Christianbook

I'll be back Monday with a GIVEAWAY and "Home in Last Chance" so come on back!

Happy Reading,

Nicki

Revell Review-The Colonels Lady By Laura Frantz

Good morning everyone!! I know it's been a few days since a review but there's been a slight break in the amount of books I've received for review with the Holidays so I've resorted to reviewing my Christmas presents. ;)

*About the Author*

I was born and raised in Kentucky, living first in Ashland, Mammoth Cave, Bowling Green, and then Lexington. But my heart has always been in Berea, Madison County, the place my family has resided since the 18th-century. I came to know Christ there at the age of 12, was baptized, and spent my childhood roaming through the woods and swimming in the rivers of my books.

My earliest memories are of the public library, standing in front of shelves filled with those little biographies of famous historical figures like Daniel Boone and George Washington and Sacajawea. I began scribbling stories at age 7 and thankfully never stopped. My passion then and now is history and all the wonders of past centuries.

I attended college at Denison University in Ohio and also in England, living in a manor/castle and studying the American Revolution from the British perspective. Shakespeare and 18th-century literature form the backbone of my English degree. Strangely enough, I only took one creative writing class.

It was never a desire of mine to be published. I simply love to write for the sheer joy of writing – and that was enough. But as Proverbs 16:9 says, “The heart of a man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.”

I hope my books bless you.

*Book Description*

Roxanna Rowan no longer has any patience to wait for her dear father to return to her as he fights as a Patriot in the war. Determined, Roxanna sets out...only to find that her dear father has been killed. Now, with no money and no safe way to get home, Roxanna sets to work and agrees to stay until spring. When handsome Colonel Cassius McLinn arrives on his white steed, coattails flying, the heart of the Virginian Spinster soars along with it. When Roxanna begins to fall for a soldier, something she promised her mother she would not do, will his secret rip them apart? And when danger is just on the border, will the British prevail over them? Will anyone be safe, will Cass? And what of the secret of dear little Abby?

Colonel Cass McLinn feels dread, attraction and a million other things every time he looks at his dear friend's sweet Roxie. With growing respect and admiration for his new found scrivener, Cass does his best to keep his feelings under wraps. Unfortunately, to his undoing Roxie's feelings are similar and frightening to her. Trying to comfort the sweet young woman, keep himself in control, and worry about attacks, Cass is overwhelmed. Then when there's a chance that lives are lost, what will they do to protect one another? Will they live to see another day? Together? 

*What I liked*

I love this book for many reasons but the first is the setting. I've read so few books set in the Revolutionary war time period (actually this was a first!) that it made it so worth it to read the history in this one. The cover was fabulous and don't get me started on the descriptions. Normally, I'm not too enthralled with red haired characters but Cass...he really had me. My favorite part was the nicknames. Not one but TWO nicknames, girl and guy nicknames!!! LOVE!!

*What I didn't like*

 I didn't like the ending...don't get me wrong, I loved it but it was sooo sad when I reached the last page!! My sole issue with stand alone novels. ;) 

*My Rating*

I give The Colonels Lady... 5 stars!!

*My Overall Opinion*

My overall opinion on The Colonels Lady is five stars. I find it to be a wonderful book with faith, heroism, strength, and so many wonderful values in it without surrendering any passion or romance anyone may be worrying about. Into my favorites it goes!

 *Where to buy it*

Walmart

Deepershopping

Christianbook

Barnes & Noble

Thanks so much for stopping by..oh and some very exciting news: Laura Frantz's newest book comes out in September 2015 so be sure to read up on her other books and don't miss her latest, Love's Fortune!

Happy Reading,

Nicki

The Gunsmith's Gallantry By Susan Page Davis

Good, mid January, morning! Wow, bet you didn't think you'd say that already! It was just Christmas! Anyways, today I decided I'd review the second book in the "Bride's Prerogative series" by Susan Page Davis. I reviewed the first book 'The Sheriff's Surrender' the other day so be sure to check that out as well!

The Gunsmith's Gallantry

*Book Description*

Hiram-Hi-Dooley has lived with his sister Trudy for the past ten years...ever since his beloved wife Violet and son died and left him alone. He's hardly spoken a word since then. Now after all these years an unexpected, and unwanted, visitor shows up on their door right after her telegram arrives and there's no chance for escape for Hi and Trudy. When a short visit turns into a summer stay, Hi feels he's at his wit's end. Will he ever get rid of the girl? To make matters worse, Hi thinks the woman he loves is just starting to notice him...the problem is, now that she is, he doesn't know what to say! Will he ever speak normally again and get his life on track? Or is he destined to be known as 'Hiram Dooley, the silent gunsmith'?

The whole town thinks Hiram Dooley's quiet ways and few words makes him different but Libby Adams finds it relaxing with his gentle, silent ways. When Hi does start to speak, Libby is just about shocked into silence herself! Then a friend visits with worries about her father and Libby starts to worry as well. Will the town's mysteries ever be solved? And when sneaky visitors come to town could the Ladies Shooting Club get more then they bargained for? Then there's the gunsmith...

*What I liked*

First, I loved the name Hi. I don't know why but I have a fondness for nicknames, especially male nicknames and Hi did it for me. I also loved his quiet bashful ways even though he still had the ability to knock someone down if needed. All the characters were wonderful as in the first book and the plot was incredible! I never expected anything that happened and when a book does that...well just see the rating!

*What I didn't like*

Once again, Susan had an awesome ending but I wasn't satisfied so book three for me!

*My Rating*

My rating for The Gunsmith's Gallantry is... 4 1/2 stars!!

*My overall opinion*

My overall opinion on The Gunsmith's Gallantry is that it is a wonderful western,mystery, romance with so much fun, suspense, and spunk, you'll be buying the next book within minutes!

 *Where to buy it*

Deepershopping

Christianbook

Barnes & Noble

                                                                   



Thanks for checking out book two...next stop, book three!


Happy Reading,
Nicki

Bethany House Review-Beyond All Dreams By Elizabeth Camden

Afternoon y'all! It's icy and dreary here so I'm very busy praying youth won't be canceled tonight. Yuck. Way too cold to have to walk a dog three times a day. Especially a shih tzu with more energy then three of me combing...being that I am a huge multi-tasker, that's saying something.

*About the Author*

A research librarian and associate professor, Elizabeth Camden has a master’s in history from the University of Virginia and a master’s in library science from Indiana University. She has published several articles for academic publications and is the author of four nonfiction history books. Her ongoing fascination with history and love of literature have led her to write inspirational fiction. Elizabeth lives with her husband in central Florida.

*Book Description*

Map room librarian Anna O'Brien works for the library of Congress-trial basis- but nothing is going to stop her from continuing her dream. Not even the cocky Congressman Luke Callahan. When the Maine Congressman specifically requests her for weeks worth of research, Anna is appalled. Sparking things in him she would never imagine, like a fiery temper, and a deep love for poetry, Anna wonders how they will ever work together. However, when Anna approaches her superior she's informed that she has no choice. After an unfortunate scene between a congressman and librarian gets the young woman involved fired, Anna designs to work with the handsome man as little as possible. On top of doing her best to not worry about Luke she has more important matters to attend to. She doesn't believe that the ship sunk in the Bahamas with her father, sunk in the Bahamas. When she presses the Navy about it they get angry and threaten her job. Will she ever learn the truth of her father's death...along with the other 55 men aboard? Impossibly she soon finds that the quick tempered man also has a penchant for peace...could they both learn to work together...and more?

Luke Callahan thinks Anna O'Brien is the most impossible woman he's ever met...he also thinks she's the loveliest, biggest spitfire he's ever met. When she outright refuses to help him in his researching quest, he goes to her superior and gets what he wants anyways. Not used to being refused, Luke is surprised-and hurt- at her rejection of him even if it is just for research. Working with her though, Luke begins to wonder if it could be more. Accepting to help Anna with her secret project, the things they uncover could change her life-their lives-forever. The question is...for good? Or not so good?

*What I liked*

I loved the spitfire Anna O'Brien and I especially loved Luke Callahan's penchant for peace. The cover is what originally drew me to the books but Anna's job is what kept me reading...that and Luke and Anna's friend/enemy relationship. Even more amazing then that, there is so much Historical information in this story that you never expected, it shocks you!  

*My Rating*

My rating for Beyond All Dreams is...5 stars!

*My overall opinion*

My Overall opinion is this:

Beyond All Dreams by Elizabeth Camden is a unique, heart wrenching story on two unlikely protagonists who not only learn to love one another but learn to get through any situation together. It features a lovely mix of dry humor, love, and uniqueness that kept me reading throughout the night!

 *Where to buy it*

Barnes & Noble

Christianbook

Deepershopping

Walmart

                                                           

Thanks again for stopping by!

Happy Reading,

Nicki