3.31.2012

Rose's Pledge by Sally Laity and Dianna Crawford ~ Review

Rose's Pledge

My Review: A tale set amidst the wilds of a young America.

Rose's family finds themselves in a financial predicament when a customer refuses to pay the large sum that he owes to their shop.
Rose takes matters into her own hands to protect her family, selling everything the family owns that is of value, and when that fails to be enough to pay off the debtor, finally selling herself as an indentured servant. Her sisters beg to come along with her, to start a new life in America.
Upon reaching America, the sisters are separated, each bound in a different direction. Rose is determined to work hard, and someday see her sisters again, but Rose's journey takes her far away from civilization with a group of traders. Along the way she meets Nate, a stubborn man, of honor and duty. What amazing adventures does this New World hold for Rose?

A fresh take on the indentured servant plot line, Rose's Pledge is a well written read, only gets better as it goes along. I found the story easy to follow, and I liked unexpected setting of the America wilderness, before the Revolutionary War.

My favorite character was Bob, because he was a man of truth and honor, who found his identity in Christ, and knew exactly who he was. Bob, was also pretty good at setting others right when they were headed down the wrong path :) I kinda wish Bob had been more prominent in the story and that some of the other other supporting characters had been a bit more developed, but then there weren't a whole lot of other characters walking around in the wilderness!

Overall, a great book, that wasn't quite what I was expecting, but that's OK. There were some times that were slow moving for me, mostly in the middle, but that's just my personal opinion. One of the things that I really liked about this story was how Rose made it very clear that a relationship with God was a requirement for a relationship with her. A great read.

Final Rating: 4

I received this book from the publisher in return for an honest review.

    3.30.2012

    The Dark Legion by Michael Holladay ~ Review

    The Dark Legion
    My Review: A swift moving story, filled with mystical creatures and a fast moving plot!

    Thareous is a young man, with a huge destiny before him. His journey takes him on many paths, with still more paths before him to choose from. Met with many tempations, and obstacles along the way, Thareous and his newfound friends must fight for Keiratha.
    It took awhile for me to "get used to my surroundings" but when I did, this books sped by. I could totally see reading The Dark Legion aloud, because there are so many great lines that just beg to be spoken in bold British accents!

    This book was written in a unique style, that I will admit took me some time to adjust to, I would say that this book has a lilt to it that would greatly appeal to those who like a classic medieval tales. There were vivid descriptions of the various settings, painted with such precision of word choice and usage. The setting descriptions were probably my favorite part, because I could actually feel it and see it, as if it were before me on a movie screen.

    This tale is a tale of the battles between good and evil, and the temptations of living for one's own selfish desires. A couple things that I will note is that this book does have magic, dragons, and a various assortment of other mystical creatures, and that there are "Fates" who are credited with effecting destinies, even though there was an allegorical God-like figure and an evil, power grasping Devil-like figure. So that was the one thing that baffled me, and made me conflicted about this book. I will also note that I found one use of "d--n."

    Overall, I would recommend this to fantasy lovers, who have a spot in their hearts for the classics. One thing that I thought was cool, was how eloquently the characters spoke, with using some words that I'd never even heard before, of course I had to look them up! The Dark Legion is a fast-moving tale about the choices that we make, who will we serve?

    I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. It was not required that I give a positive review, but only that I give my thoughts and personal opinions. Thanks.

    What I'm Reading ~ Weekend 3/30-4/1/12



    Hello again! I've had quite a busy week, so might be using the weekend to catch up on my review posts, but we'll see.

    I've been doing great, and around where I live the weather has never been better! We're talking an average of 68 degrees, which is like, perfect :D

    When the Heart Cries (Sisters of the Quilt, #1)What am I reading this weekend? That is an excellent question! I don't have much time this weekend, mostly I'm finishing some stuff up. But I hope to start at least one book :)

    When the Heart Cries by Cindy Woodsmall.

    Here's the back blurb:
    Despite being raised in a traditional Old Order Amish family, seventeen-year-old Hannah Lapp desires to break with custom, forgo baptism into the faith, and marry outside the cloistered community. She’s been in love with Mennonite Paul Waddell for three years, and before returning to college for his senior year, Paul asks Hannah to be his wife. Hannah accepts, aware that her marriage will change her relationship with her family forever.

    On the evening of their engagement, tragedy strikes and in one unwelcome encounter, all that Hannah has known and believed is destroyed. As she finds herself entangled in questions that the Old Ways of her people cannot answer, Hannah faces the possibility of losing her place in her family, in her community– and in the heart of the man she loves.

    When the Heart Cries is book one in the Sisters of the Quilt series.


    Well, there you have it folks, my one selection. What are you reading this weekend? I'd LOVE to hear about it! So don't be shy, and tell me whats in your hands this week :)

    Have a wonderful and productive weekend!

    3.27.2012

    A Texan's Honor by Shelley Gray ~ Review

    A Texan's Honor: The Heart of a Hero
    My Review: A compelling western tale, about growth and making new beginnings.

    Will McMillan is an undercover Marshal, pretending to be part of the infamous Walton Gang. But when a train robbery doesn't go the way they planned, and a innocent young woman is caught in the middle of an ugly hostage situation, Will risks everything to keep her safe.
    Scout Profitt is known as a fearsome outlaw to cross, and after Will does just that Scout follows close on his trail, determined to catch them before they are out of reach.

    A Texan's Honor is  a fast paced book, with characters that leap off the page. Corded with tension, Ms. Gray has woven together an exhilarating western adventure, filled with characters so complex that you can't help but believe them to be real. Though Will and Jamie were great, my favorite character was Scout. It's not often that I like the (sorta) bad guy, but Scout was imperfect, yet there was a man of honor in there somewhere! Scout was complex, and he grew by leaps and bounds throughout the book. It's easy to see that Scout was really smart guy, and he really was challenged to rethink his way of life. I think that the next book should be about Scout!

    Though this is something of a sequel, I would say that this book also works well as a stand alone. The only connection to the first book is that Scout is the brother of Clayton, the hero in the first book, but they haven't seen each other in years, so there's very little tying A Texan's Honor to A Texan's Promise, especially because this book was mainly about Will.

    Overall, this is a fast-paced western, with wonderfully complex and conflicted characters, that come to life before your eyes, with a tension filled plot. I loved every minute of this book, and am eagerly awaiting the second in the series. I would highly recommend this book to historical fiction lovers of every kind! Thanks :)

    Final Rating: 5 out of 5

    I received this book from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. It was not required that I give a positive review, but only that I give my honest opinion. Thank you.

    In Too Deep by Mary Connealy ~ Review


    In Too Deep

    Lucie's Review: Another great book from Mary Connealy!

    A thrilling sequel, picking up right where Out of Control left off, In Too Deep tells Audra & Ethan's story.

    In my opinion, this is one of those books where you really should read the first book, first. Because alot of this book leans on the the relationships, and trials that began in the first installment of the series. Plus, Out of Control is just way too cool to miss!

    Action-packed throughout, the pages flew by, because I just had to know what happened next. This is one of those books where I just couldn't  go to bed, while the characters are in peril!

    All of the characters were so well drawn out, each with their own sometimes quirky idiosyncrasies, making them memorable and unique. My favorite character was Ethan, though Audra was a really close second. Both Ethan and Audra grew and matured throughout the story, and their relationship progressed naturally--they were just so perfect for each other! One of the things that I really liked was how I got to see the characters from the first book again, and not just in a brief tidbit here or there, Julia and Rafe were much a part of In Too Deep.

    One of the things that I didn't like as much was the parts where we got to take a peek into the bad guys' heads, but that's mostly my personal opinion.

    Overall, this is a book full of adventure, and another great book from Mary Connealy. I love how this book is so much more than just a romance, it's a wild west adventure, with good guys and bad guys, as well as a family relationship drama, and a book about overcoming the past with God's help. I will eagerly await Over the Edge, because to be completely honest In Too Deep was a teensy-bit of a cliff-hanger! I've gotta get Over the Edge!

    Final Rating: 4

    I received this book from the publisher in return for an honest review.




    3.26.2012

    Helpful Blogger Award


    I was honored to be awarded The Helpful Blogger Award by my friend, Amber S. from Seasons of Humility!

    The rules for this award are simple:

    1. Link back to the blogger who nominated you in your award post.
    2. Post three helpful things you've done.
    3. Nominate another three bloggers and tell them you nominated them.
    That's it!
    I'm afraid I'm not as helpful as I should be, but we'll see what I come up with!
    1. I'm assistant coaching a team of Sparks for the AWANA Games this Saturday.
    2. I helped out at my church library last Sunday, but then I'm not sure if that really counts as work! You know me, I love books. It was fun!
    3. Hmm, this is hard! I made my brother read a book I knew he would love, and now he's mad at me for getting him addicted to them! LOL.

    Now for the bloggers I'm tagging:

    Katie @ Legacy of a Writer
    Jen @ Book Reviews from a Book Lover
    Abbi @ Christian Novels

    Thank you again, Amber!




    Desired : The Untold Story of Samson and Delilah by Ginger Garrett ~ Review

    Desired: The Untold Story of Samson and Delilah
    My Review: A well written tale, that tells the story of Samson  with great attention to detail and description.

    Desired tells the tale of Samson, through the eyes of three women, Samson's mother, his Philistine bride, and Delilah.

    The story was well-told, with great attention to detail, and setting. I could literally feel the hard brick of the housetops under my feet, and the smell of the trickling stream.

    Desired is a tale that is well-researched, yet at the same time isn't afraid to ask "What if" this, or that. And I really liked how Ms. Garrett gave a different view of Delilah than the typical temptress that we always tend to imagine her as.

    Ms. Garrett's story is rich in detail, though at times the details were more sensual than I would have preferred. Though, with a story like this it would be impossible to avoid. But in my opinion there was more sensuality than was necessary, though I wouldn't call any of it explicit. But I would say that a warning is never a bad thing.

    Desired is an emotionally heart-rending read, that at times was hard for me to read because of how sad every single one of the main characters' lives were. In my mind this book was almost like two books, because the first half was told mostly by Amara, Samson's Philistine bride, and then the book switched to Delilah, going back a few years to when she was younger. I will admit that this probably wasn't a good choice for me, considering what my personal preferences are, and at times the details were more than I wanted to read.


    I received this book from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

    3.23.2012

    What I'm Reading ~ Weekend 3/23-25/12

    Desired: The Untold Story of Samson and Delilah


    Hello there! Goodness I can't believe another week has gone by, it seems like just the other day when I was publishing last month's post!

    What am I reading? Well I guess you could say that I am in the middle of alot of things right now!

    One them being Desired by Ginger Garrett. I'm not completely sure what I think of this one right now, but I guess I'll be finding out soon!

    Here's the back blurb:

    Meet the legendary Samson as you've never known him before … through the eyes of the three women who loved him.

    Before Samson was an Old Testament legend, he was a prodigal son, an inexperienced suitor, a vengeful husband, and a lost soul driven by his own weakness. This is his story as told by three strong women who loved him—the nagging, manipulative mother who pushed him toward greatness, the hapless Philistine bride whose betrayal propelled him into notoriety, and the emotionally damaged seductress—the famous Delilah—who engineered his downfall and propelled him to his destiny. Desired celebrates the God of Israel's to work powerfully in the midst of hopes, fears, desires, and sorrows.

    I'm also hoping to dig into Rachel Moschell's Prism: Story of Ci.

    Here's the back blurb: He wanted to bring light to the world, but knew that along with it would come darkness…
    Prism (Story of CI)
    Alejo is a leader in the Prism, a Muslim organization bent on fighting social injustice in his native Bolivia. His passion for God’s justice has always led him far away from the church and its dark secrets he has seen with his own eyes.
    Until now.
    The granddaughter of a Quechua villager and an Irish missionary, Wara Cadogan has South America in her blood. Her friends think she’s the ideal missionary in Bolivia, but they don’t know the truth: she betrayed her values, and it’s tearing her apart. When Wara and her best friend Noah collide with the Prism, she believes Noah is dead and Alejo is to blame. What can she say to the man who tried to kill her, then gives up everything to save her?


    The Dark LegionAnd I'm very excited to be starting Michael Holladay's The Dark Legion. I recently interviewed Mr. Holladay on my blog and you can read the interview by clicking HERE.

    Here's the back blurb:

    All his life Thareous was fascinated by the encaged dragon in Galgon's palace courtyard. But what was his past, and why was it caged? He remembered tales of a beast that had harassed the kingdom a generation past. He often visited with Nalla, a princess, hoping to find an indication of this, for he knows there to be more to the dragon...Then, during one visit, the dragon speaks to Thareous and Nalla, warning them of an evil horde marching for Galgon. Soon events turn against them, and the dragon, known as Ianvorr, is forced to take them into the forgotten realms of the kingdom, Keiratha. There the exiled order known as the Omnipotent Ones has hidden, but now stir in this time of need. Upon meeting them, Thareous discovers he is the target of a millennia-old prophecy: that he must defeat the gravest threat known to all.

    The Dark Legion, is the first in Michael Holladay's medieval Christian fantasy creation entitled The Keiratha Trilogy. About the author: Growing up the fourth of six sons in the tiny community of Ben Franklin, Texas, Michael's home education afforded the opportunity for individualized studies more suited to his personal interests. He discovered his love for words at a young age while completing a wordsmith program and began writing The Dark Legion at age fourteen. Michael continues his research and work to complete the trilogy.

    Unnatural Selection: Choosing Boys Over Girls, and the Consequences of a World Full of MenAnd last of all, and I guess you could say that this book just fascinated me, is Unnatural Selection: Choosing Boys Over Girls, and the Consequences of a World Full of Men by Mara Hvistendahl. It's not a Christian book, but it is thought provoking. It talks about the problems with sex selection, and how many girls all over the world are being aborted, killed, etc. for a variety of reasons, and it talks about the consequences. I don't agree with everything she says, but it is a fascinating well researched book. I would note that Ms. Hvistendahl is pro-choice, and this book is not about abortion and that debate.

    Here's what the back cover says: A Slate Best Book of 2011A Discover Magazine Best Book of 2011Lianyungang, a booming port city, has China's most extreme gender ratio for children under four: 163 boys for every 100 girls. These numbers don't seem terribly grim, but in ten years, the skewed sex ratio will pose a colossal challenge. By the time those children reach adulthood, their generation will have twenty-four million more men than women.The prognosis for China's neighbors is no less bleak: Asia now has 163 million females "missing" from its population. Gender imbalance reaches far beyond Asia, affecting Georgia, Eastern Europe, and cities in the U.S. where there are significant immigrant populations. The world, therefore, is becoming increasingly male, and this mismatch is likely to create profound social upheaval.Historically, eras in which there have been an excess of men have produced periods of violent conflict and instability. Mara Hvistendahl has written a stunning, impeccably-researched book that does not flinch from examining not only the consequences of the misbegotten policies of sex selection but Western complicity with them.

    Well that's what I'm reading, and boy, is it a pile! 
    What are you reading this week? I'd love to hear about it :)
    And don't forget to have a wonderful weekend!

    3.22.2012

    Interview with Author Michael Holladay

    The Dark Legion

    Hello there! Today I have an interview with the author if the new Christian Fantasy,

    About Michael Holladay:
    Growing up the fourth of six sons in the tiny community of Ben Franklin, Texas, Michael's home education afforded the opportunity for individualized studies more suited to his personal interests. He discovered his love for words at a young age while completing a wordsmith program and began writing The Dark Legion at age fourteen. Michael continues his research and work to complete the trilogy.

    Onward to the interview!

    First off, could you please share with us how you got started writing. When did you know that you wanted to be an author?


    Growing up I always had this sensation to create new visions and experiment with words. I mostly got to do this with school projects, because I'd otherwise be outside with my imagination going off. But over the years I learned that I could capture those stray thoughts and form them into a vivid telling of a story, or only in part by describing a scene. I would also peruse a dictionary or thesaurus for words and synonyms, which helped in part to develop further creativity. I think I always knew I had the ability to become an author, but it took me several years to realize that would be more than a possibility, and as I envisioned the characters and storyline, I began writing The Dark Legion at age fourteen.




    What inspired your debut novel, The Dark Legion?


    It was actually reading Eragon by Christopher Paolini that inspired me to write The Dark Legion. But soon afterward I started Tolkien's Lord of the Rings and  I enjoyed and learned from its very distinctive form of writing. I borrowed that style and applied it in the setting and dialogue of the characters. That's where the formal manner of speaking—even the parts of narration—came from.




    Were there any scenes or situations in the novel inspired by real scenarios in your life?


    There's only one thing I really took from real life and inserted into the line of the story: my protagonist, Thareous. He's become a figure I can relate with so easily, as he experienced the same internal struggles I've had throughout the course of his journey.

    Otherwise I recognized the personalities of some people that I know personally emerging from other characters from time to time. For example, I can see the insight of my father coming through in some of Ianvorr's responses, even certain qualities in my friends that are almost arcane and they remind me of the elves.




    What do you hope your readers will take away from your novel?


    The story stresses on the dangers of us turning toward Self (temptation) and living by our own standards. Unfortunately, temptation is everywhere, and the situation my characters are in bring out the dangers of heeding to it. In The Dark Legion, I created storylines that help the reader recognize the power and consequences of the choices we make, whether good or bad.




    Was there anything you learned while writing The Dark Legion that you would like to share with your readers?


    For myself, the biggest lesson I took from the events of this story was definitely to be aware of my own personal choices. Poor decisions are prone to backfire with drastic consequences, possibly hurting someone profoundly with words or angering them within where it won't show. Thus I found it imperative, and prayed for daily reminders think before I acted or spoke.




    Any advice for aspiring authors?


    Yes. I would encourage everyone to write stories that benefit society. We need leaders to encourage believers to maintain faith and urge others to follow Christ's examples and teachings instead of focusing on Self, which leads to actions and decisions based on selfish desires and not the ultimate good of others. Denying Self is one of Christ's focal teachings, not only in His words but ultimately by His sacrifice for mankind.




    Where can readers connect with you?



    Thank you so much Michael, for the wonderful interview. I wish you much sucess with your book, and the many more to come!


    Psst! For an excerpt from The Dark Legion check out Michael Holladay's website :

    http://maylightbeyourpath.blogspot.com/

    Michael Holladay's book can be purchased online at Amazon:

    Print: http://www.amazon.com/The-Dark-Legion-Michael-Holladay/dp/1935991221/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1332449169&sr=8-1

    Kindle Edition: http://www.amazon.com/Dark-Legion-Keiratha-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B005S0W0MS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1332449169&sr=8-2

    And it can also be purchased from Barnes & Noble Booksellers:

    Print or Nook Edition: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-dark-legion-michael-holladay/1105137824?ean=9781935991229&itm=2&usri=the+dark+legion

    The Heart's Frontier by Lori Copeland & Virginia Smith ~ Review

    The Heart's Frontier
    Lucie's Review: An utterly delightful western adventure with an Amish twist.

    What happens when you mix an sweet Amish tale, and an action-packed Western adventure? The Heart's Frontier! And let's not forget a healthy dollop of humor!

    The Heart's Frontier is a page turning adventure, filled with fast-thinking, sharp wit, humor, and unique characters. Speaking of characters Maummi Marta was buckets of fun, in all her unpredictable glory. Definitely a favorite character. I laugh just thinking about some of the things she did!

    Overall, I would recommend The Heart's Frontier highly! Well-written and fast-paced, with tons of laugh-out-loud moments, this is a book written to be enjoyed. I couldn't help but love every minute of it!

    Final Rating: 4.25 out of 5

    I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

    3.21.2012

    Sixty Acres and a Bride by Regina Jennings ~ Litfuse Blog Tour & Review

    Sixty Acres and a Bride

    My Review: A well written tale that only got better, the more I read!

    Sixty Acres and a Bride is something of "a marriage of convenience" tale, and while it does have elements of the Biblical story of Ruth interwoven into the tale, I would say that this is a whole different story. While the Ruth influence is evident, I wouldn't recommend going into this book and expecting an exact re-telling, matching up the characters and so on. Sixty Acres and a Bride is a totally fresh tale filled with moments of humor and intensity, about overcoming fears and embracing the future.

    Sixty Acres and a Bride was a slow starter for me, but that changed the more I read. Getting to know the characters took a bit of time, but they were so well done! It took awhile for me to realize that both the main characters were pretty reserved people, so it made perfect sense that they took some time to get to know. One of the things that I liked most about this story was how I got to see how the two different cultures clashed, and how it could cause some problems--some of them humorous :)

    Overall, this was a lovely read, that I would happily recommend to others. Ms. Jennings does a wonderful job, paying close attention to imagery with vivid descriptions. I definitely be picking up more books from Ms. Jennings in the future.

    Final Rating: 4.5 out of 5

    I received this book from the publisher in return for an honest review. With thanks to Amy Lanthrop, Christen Krumm, Litfuse Publicity, and Bethany House Publishers.


    About the Book:
    She's Finally Found a Place to Call Home... How Far Will She Go to Save It?

    With nothing to their names, young widow Rosa Garner and her mother-in-law return to their Texas family ranch. Only now the county is demanding back taxes and the women have just three months to pay.

    Though facing eviction, Rosa falls in love with the countryside and the wonderful extended family who want only her best. They welcome her vivacious spirit and try to help her navigate puzzling American customs. She can't help but stand out, though, and her beauty captures attention.

    Where some offer help with dangerous strings attached, only one man seems honorable. But when Weston Garner, still grieving his own lost love, is unprepared to give his heart, Rosa must decide to what lengths she will go to save her future. Read an excerpt: http://ow.ly/9sK2C.
    Buy the Book HERE
    About the Author:

    Regina Jennings is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in English and a history minor. She has worked at The Mustang News and First Baptist Church of Mustang, along with time at the Oklahoma National Stockyards and various livestock shows. She now lives outside Oklahoma City with her husband and four children. Meet Regina here.



    Learn more about Regina by visiting her website, www.reginajennings.com.


    Celebrate with Regina by entering to win a Kindle Fire and coming to her Author Chat Party on 3/27!





    One fortunate winner will receive:


    • A Kindle Fire
    • Sixty Acres and a Bride by Regina Jennings

    Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends 3/26/12. Winner will be announced at Regina's Author Chat Facebook Party on 3/27. Regina will be hosting an evening of chat, fun trivia and more! She'll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, and some beautiful silver jewerly!

    So grab your copy of Sixty Acres and a Bride and join Regina and friends on the evening of March 27th for an evening of fun.




    Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP TODAY and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 27th!


    Check out all the other awesome stops on the tour by clicking HERE for the schedule!

    I received this book from the publisher in return for an honest review. With thanks to Amy Lanthrop, Christen Krumm, Litfuse Publicity, and Bethany House Publishers.

    3.20.2012

    Song of My Heart by Kim Vogel Sawyer ~ Litfuse Blog Tour & Review

    Song of My Heart

    My Review: My favorite Kim Vogel Sawyer book yet!

    Filled with a delightful cast of characters, some more colorful than others, and set in an 1800's Western town, you can't help but let your heart sing along with this enjoyable novel.

    I loved the depth and relatability that Ms. Sawyer brought to the characters, as well as the light-hearted humor represented by  characters such as the Baxter sisters, Shelva and Melva. I loved so many things about this book, the setting was one of them. I just cannot help but love a small town setting, especially one set in the west, along with a few quirky characters to make it all come alive.

    The pace was excellent, making this book an enjoyably relaxing read, that kept me turning the pages. I've read two other books by Ms. Sawyer that I enjoyed immensely, but not as much as I loved this one! Now I know I have a great book to recommend, whenever someone asks what they should read next :D

    There is something for everyone in this well-written tale, mystery, romance, adventure, all wrapped in good old fashioned small town charm. Song of My Heart is NOT a book to be missed!

    Final Rating: 4.9 out of 5


    About the Book:


    Sadie Wagner has always been devoted to her family. So when her stepfather is injured and can't work, she decides to leave home and accept a position as a clerk at the mercantile in Goldtree, Kansas. Goldtree also offers the opportunity to use her God-given singing talent--though the promised opera house is far different from what she imagined. With her family needing every cent she can provide, Sadie will do anything to keep her job.

    McKane comes to Goldtree at the request of the town council. The town has been plagued by bootlegging operations, and Thad believes he can find the culprit.

    After he earns enough money doing sheriff work, he wants to use it to pay for his training to become a minister.

    Thad is immediately attracted to the beautiful singer who performs in Asa Baxter's unusual opera house, but when he hears her practicing bawdy tunes, he begins to wonder if she's far less innocent than she seems. And when Sadie appears to be part of the very crimes he's come to investigate, is there any hope the love blossoming between them will survive?
    Buy the book HERE
    About the Author:



    Kim Vogel Sawyer is the author of nineteen novels, including several CBA and ECPA bestsellers. Her books have won the ACFW Book of the Year Award, the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, and the Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Kim is active in her church, where she leads women's fellowship and participates in both voice and bell choirs. In her spare time, she enjoys drama, quilting, and calligraphy. Kim and her husband, Don, reside in central Kansas, and have three daughters and six grandchildren.

    She invites you to visit her Web site at www.kimvogelsawyer.com for more information.


    Celebrate with Kim by entering to win a Nook Tablet and connecting with her at the Book Chat Party on 3/29!





    One "songbird" winner will receive:


    • A Nook Tablet
    • Song of My Heart by Kim Vogel Sawyer

    Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends 3/28/12. Winner will be announced at Kim's Book Chat Facebook Party on 3/29. Kim will be hosting an evening of chat, fun trivia and more! She'll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, and much more!


    So grab your copy of Song of My Heart and join Kim and friends on the evening of March 29th for an evening of fun.






    Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP TODAY and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 29th!


    Check out other stops on the blog tour! To see the whole schedule, click HERE.

    I received this book from the publisher in return for an honest review. With thanks to Amy Lanthrop, Christen Krumm, Litfuse Publicity, and Bethany House Publishers.

    Heart's Frontier by Lori Copeland & Virginia Smith ~ FIRST Wild Card Blog Tour

    It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old...or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!

    You never know when I might play a wild card on you!




    Today's Wild Card authors are:




    and the book:


    Harvest House Publishers (March 1, 2012)

    ***Special thanks to Karri | Marketing Assistant | Harvest House Publishers for sending me a review copy.***


    ABOUT THE AUTHOR:


    Lori Copeland is the author of more than 90 titles, both historical and contemporary fiction. With more than 3 million copies of her books in print, she has developed a loyal following among her rapidly growing fans in the inspirational market. She has been honored with the Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Award, The Holt Medallion, and Walden Books' Best Seller award. In 2000, Lori was inducted into the Missouri Writers Hall of Fame. She lives in the beautiful Ozarks with her husband, Lance, and their three children and five grandchildren.
    Visit the author's website.


    Virginia Smith is the author of more than a dozen inspirational novels and more than fifty articles and short stories. An avid reader with eclectic tastes in fiction, Ginny writes in a variety of styles, from lighthearted relationship stories to breath-snatching suspense.


    Visit the author's website.



    SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:



    An exciting new Amish-meets-Wild West adventure from bestselling authors Lori Copeland and Virginia Smith weaves an entertaining and romantic tale for devoted fans and new readers.

    Kansas,1881—On a trip to visit relatives, Emma Switzer’s Amish family is robbed of all their possessions, leaving them destitute and stranded on the prairie. Walking into the nearest trading settlement, they pray to the Lord for someone to help. When a man lands in the dust at her feet, Emma looks down at him and thinks, The Lord might have cleaned him up first.

    Luke Carson, heading up his first cattle drive, is not planning on being the answer to anyone’s prayers, but it looks as though God has something else in mind for this kind and gentle man. Plain and rugged—do the two mix? And what happens when a dedicated Amish woman and a stubborn trail boss prove to be each other’s match?






    Product Details:

    List Price: $13.99

    Paperback: 320 pages

    Publisher: Harvest House Publishers (March 1, 2012)

    Language: English

    ISBN-10: 0736947523

    ISBN-13: 978-0736947527


    AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:






    Apple Grove, Kansas
    July 1881

    Nearly the entire Amish district of Apple Grove had turned out to help this morning, all twenty families. Or perhaps they were here merely to wish Emma Switzer well as she set off for her new home in Troyer, fifty miles away.
    From her vantage point on the porch of the house, Emma’s grandmother kept watch over the loading of the gigantic buffet hutch onto the specially reinforced wagon. Her sharp voice sliced through the peaceful morning air.
    “Forty years I’ve had that hutch from my dearly departed husband and not a scratch on it. Jonas, see that you use care!”
    If Maummi’s expression weren’t so fierce, Emma would have laughed at the long-suffering look Papa turned toward his mother. But the force with which Maummi’s fingers dug into the flesh on Emma’s arm warned that a chuckle would be most ill-suited at the moment. Besides, the men straining to heft the heavy hutch from the front porch of their home into the wagon didn’t need further distractions. Their faces strained bright red above their beards, and more than one drop of sweat trickled from beneath the broad brim of their identical straw hats.
    Emma glanced at the watchers lined up like sparrows on a fence post. She caught sight of her best friend, Katie Beachy, amid the sea of dark dresses and white kapps. Katie smiled and smoothed her skirt with a shy gesture. The black fabric looked a little darker and crisper than that of those standing around her, which meant she’d worn her new dress to bid Emma farewell, an honor usually reserved for singings or services or weddings. The garment looked well on her. Emma had helped sew the seams at their last frolic. Of course, Katie’s early morning appearance in a new dress probably had less to do with honoring Emma than with the presence of Samuel Miller, the handsome son of the district bishop. With a glance toward Samuel, whose arms bulged against the weight of holding up one end of the hutch, she returned Katie’s smile with a conspiratorial wink.
    Emma’s gaze slid over other faces in the crowd and snagged on a pair of eyes fixed on her. Amos Beiler didn’t bother to turn away but kept his gaze boldly on her face. Nor did he bother to hide his expression, one of longing and lingering hurt. He held infant Joseph in his arms, and a young daughter clutched each of his trouser-clad legs. A wave of guilt washed through Emma, and she hastily turned back toward the wagon.
    From his vantage point up in the wagon bed, Papa held one end of a thick rope looped around the top of the hutch, the other end held by John Yoder. The front edge of the heavy heirloom had been lifted into the wagon with much grunting and groaning, while the rear still rested on the smooth wooden planks of the porch. Two men steadied the oxen heads, and the rest, like Samuel, had gathered around the back end of the hutch. A protective layer of thick quilts lined the wagon bed.
    Papa gave the word. “Lift!”
    The men moved in silent unity. Bending their knees, their hands grasped for purchase around the bottom edges. As one they drew in a breath, and at Papa’s nod raised in unison. Emma’s own breath caught in her chest, her muscles straining in silent sympathy with the men. The hutch rose until its rear end was level with its front, and the men stepped forward. The thick quilts dangling beneath scooted onto the wagon as planned, a protective barrier from damage caused by wood against wood.
    The hutch suddenly dipped and slid swiftly to the front. Emma gasped. Apparently the speed caught Papa and John Yoder by surprise too, for the rope around the top went slack. Papa lunged to reach for the nearest corner, and his foot slipped. The wagon creaked and sank lower on its wheels as the hutch settled into place. At the same moment Papa went down on one knee with a loud, “Ummph.”
    “Papa!”
    Ach! Maummi pulled away from Emma and rushed forward. Her heart pounding against her rib cage, Emma followed. Men were already checking on Papa, but Maummi leaped into the wagon bed with a jump that belied her sixty years, the strings of her kapp flying behind her. She applied bony elbows to push her way around the hutch to her son’s side.
    She came to a halt above him, hands on her hips, and looked down. “Are you hurt?”
    Emma reached the side of the wagon in time to see Papa wince and shake his head. “No. A bruise is all.”
    “Good.” She left him lying there and turned worried eyes toward her beloved hutch. With a gentle touch, she ran loving fingers over the smooth surface and knelt to investigate the corners.
    A mock-stern voice behind Emma held the hint of a chuckle. “Trappings only, Marta Switzer. Care you more for a scratch on wood than an injury to your son?”
    Emma turned to see Bishop Miller approach. He spared a smile for her as he drew near enough to lean his arms across the wooden side of the wagon and watch the activity inside. Samuel helped Papa to his feet and handed him the broad-brimmed hat that had fallen off. Emma breathed a sigh of relief when he took a ginger step to try out his leg and smiled at the absence of pain.
    “My son is fine.” Maummi waved a hand in his direction, as though in proof. “And so is my hutch. Though my heart may not say the same, such a fright I’ve had.” She placed the hand lightly on her chest, drew a shuddering breath, and wavered on her feet.
    Concern for her grandmother propelled Emma toward the back of the wagon. As she climbed up, she called into the house, “Rebecca, bring a cool cloth for Maummi’s head.”
    The men backed away while Katie and several other women converged on the wagon to help Emma lift Maummi down and over to the rocking chair that rested in the shade of the porch, ready to be loaded when the time came. Maummi allowed herself to be lowered onto the chair, and then she wilted against the back, her head lolling sideways and arms dangling. A disapproving buzz rumbled among the watching women, but Emma ignored them. Though she knew full well that most of the weakness was feigned for the sake of the bishop and other onlookers, she also knew Maummi’s heart tended to beat unevenly in her chest whenever she exerted herself. It was yet another reason why she ought to stay behind in Apple Grove, but Maummi insisted her place was with Emma, her oldest granddaughter. What she really meant was that she intended to inspect every eligible young Amish man in Troyer and handpick her future grandson-in-law.
    Aunt Gerda had written to say she anticipated that her only daughter would marry soon, and she would appreciate having Emma come to help her around the house. She’d also mentioned the abundance of marriageable young men in Troyer, with a suggestion that twenty-year-old Emma was of an age that the news might be welcome. Rebecca had immediately volunteered to go in Emma’s place. Though Papa appeared to consider the idea, he decided to send Emma because she was the oldest and therefore would be in need of a husband soonest. Maummi insisted on going along in order to “Keep an eye on this hoard of men Gerda will parade before our Emma.”
    As far as Emma was concerned, they should just send Maummi on alone and leave her in Apple Grove to wait for her future husband to be delivered to her doorstep.
    Rebecca appeared from inside the house with a dripping cloth in hand. A strand of wavy dark hair had escaped its pins and fluttered freely beside the strings of her kapp. At barely thirteen, her rosy cheeks and smooth, high forehead reminded Emma so sharply of their mother that at times her heart ached.
    Rebecca looked at Maummi’s dramatic posture and rolled her eyes. She had little patience with Maummi’s feigned heart episodes, and she was young enough that she had yet to learn proper restraint in concealing her emotions. Emma awarded her sister with a stern look and held out a hand for the cloth.
    With a contrite bob of her head, Rebecca handed it over and dropped to her knees beside the rocking chair. “Are you all right, Maummi?”
    Ach, I’m fine. I don’t think it’s my time. Yet.”
    Emma wrung the excess water from the cloth before draping it across the back of Maummi’s neck.
    Danki.” The elderly woman realized that the men had stopped working in order to watch her, and she waved her hand in a shooing motion. “Place those quilts over my hutch before you load anything else! Mind, Jonas, no scratches.”
    Papa shook his head, though a smile tugged at his lips. “Ja, I remember.”
    The gray head turned toward Emma. “Granddaughter, see they take proper care.”
    “I will, Maummi.”
    Katie joined Emma to oversee the wrapping of the hutch. When Samuel Miller offered a strong arm to help Katie up into the wagon, Emma hid a smile. No doubt she would receive a letter at her new home soon, informing her that a wedding date had been published. Because Samuel was the bishop’s son, there was no fear he would not receive the Zeungis, the letter of good standing. Rebecca would be thrilled at the news of a proper wedding in tiny Apple Grove.
    But Emma would be far away in Troyer, and she would miss her friend’s big day.
    Why must I live there when everything I love is here?
    She draped a thick quilt over her end of the hutch and sidled away while Papa secured a rope around it. The faces of her friends and family looked on. They filled the area between the house and the barn. She loved every one in her own way. Yes, even Amos Beiler. She sought him out among the crowd and smiled at the two little girls who hovered near his side. Poor, lonely Amos. He was a good father to his motherless family. No doubt he’d make a fine husband, and if she married him she wouldn’t have to move to Troyer. The thought tempted her once again, as it often had over the past several weeks since Papa announced his decision that she would live with Aunt Gerda for a while.
    But she knew that if she agreed to become Amos’s wife that she would be settling. True, she would gain a prosperous farm and a nice house and a trio of well-behaved children, with the promise of more to come. But the fact remained that though there was much to respect about Amos, she didn’t love him. The thought of seeing that moon-shaped face and slightly cross-eyed stare over the table for breakfast, dinner, and supper sent a shiver rippling across her shoulders. Not to mention sharing a marriage bed with him. It was enough to make her throw her apron over her face and run screaming across Papa’s cornfield.
    He deserves a wife who loves him, she told herself for the hundredth time. Her conscience thus soothed, Emma turned away from his mournful stare.
    “That trunk goes in the front,” Maummi shouted from her chair on the porch. “Emma, show them where.”
    Emma shrank against the gigantic hutch to give the men room to settle the trunk containing all of her belongings. An oiled canvas tarp had been secured over the top to repel any rain they might meet over the next week. Inside, resting on her dresses, aprons, bonnets, and kapps, was a bundle more precious to her than anything else in the wagon: a quilt, expertly and lovingly stitched, nestled within a heavy canvas pouch. Mama had made it with her own hands for Emma’s hope chest. The last stitch was bitten off just hours before she closed her eyes and stepped into the arms of her Lord.
    Oh, Mama, if you were here you could convince Papa to let me stay home. I know you could. And now, without you, what will happen to me?
    Yet, even in the midst of the dreary thought, a spark of hope flickered in the darkness in Emma’s heart. The future yawned before her like the endless Kansas prairie. Wasn’t there beauty to be found in the tall, blowing grasses of the open plain? Weren’t there cool streams and shady trees to offer respite from the heat of the day? Maybe Troyer would turn out to be an oasis.
    “Emma!”
    Maummi’s sharp tone cut through her musing. She jerked upright. Her grandmother appeared to have recovered from her heart episode. From the vantage point of her chair, she oversaw every movement with a critical eye.
    “Yes, ma’am?”
    “Mind what I said about that loading, girl. The food carton goes on last. We won’t want to search for provisions when we stop at night on the trail.”
    An approving murmur rose from the women at the wisdom of an organized wagon.
    “Yes, ma’am.” Emma exchanged a quick grin with Katie and then directed the man carrying a carton of canned goods and trail provisions to set his burden aside for now.
    A little while later, after everything had been loaded and secured under an oiled canvas, the men stood around to admire their handiwork. Samuel even crawled beneath the wagon to check the support struts, and he pronounced everything to be “in apple-pie order.”
    Emma felt a pluck on her arm. She turned to find Katie at her elbow.
    “This is a gift for you.” Her friend pushed a small package into her hands. “It’s only a soft cloth and some fancy-colored threads. I was fixing to stitch you a design, but you’re so much better at fine sewing than I am that I figured you could make something prettier by yourself.” She ducked her head. “Think kindly of me when you do.”
    Warmed by her friend’s gesture, Emma pulled her into an embrace. “I will. And I expect a letter from you soon.” She let Katie see her glance slide over to Samuel and back with a grin. “Especially when you have something exciting to report.”
    A becoming blush colored the girl’s cheeks. “I will.”
    Emma was still going down the line, awarding each woman a farewell hug, when Bishop Miller stepped up to the front of the wagon and motioned for attention.
    “It’s time now to bid Jonas Switzer Godspeed and fair weather for his travels.” A kind smile curved his lips when he looked to Maummi and then to Emma. “And our prayers go with our sisters Marta and Emma as they make a new home in Troyer.”
    He bowed his head and closed his eyes, a sign for everyone in the Apple Grove district to follow suit. Emma obeyed, fixing her thoughts on the blue skies overhead and the Almighty’s throne beyond. Silence descended, interrupted only by the snorts of oxen and a happy bird in the tall, leafy tree that gave shade to the porch.
    What will I find in Troyer? A new home, as the bishop says? A fine Amish husband, as Papa wishes? I pray it be so. And I pray he will be the second son of his father so that he will come home with me to Apple Grove and take over Papa’s farm when the time comes.
    A female sniffled behind her. Not Katie, but Rebecca. A twist inside Emma’s rib cage nearly sent tears to her eyes. Oh, how she would miss her sister when Rebecca left Troyer to return home with Papa. She vowed to make the most of their time together on the trail between here and there.
    Bishop Miller ended the prayer with a blessing in High German, his hand on the head of the closest oxen. When the last word fell on the quiet crowd, Maummi’s voice sliced through the cool morning air. “Now that we’re seen off proper, someone help me up. We’ll be gone before the sun moves another inch across the sky.”
    Though she’d proved earlier that she could make the leap herself at need, Maummi allowed Papa and the bishop to lift her into the wagon. She took her seat in her rocking chair, which was wedged between the covered hutch and one high side of the wagon bed. With a protective pat on the hutch, she settled her sewing basket at her feet and pulled a piece of mending onto her lap. No idle hands for Maummi. By the time they made Troyer, she’d have all the mending done, and the darning too, and a good start on a new quilt.
    Emma spared one more embrace for Katie, steadfastly ignored Amos’s mournful stare, and allowed the bishop to help her up onto the bench seat. She scooted over to the far end to make room for Papa, and then Rebecca was lifted up to sit on the other side of him. A snug fit, but they would be okay for the six-day journey to Troyer. Emma settled her black dress and smoothed her apron.
    “Now, Jonas, mind you what I said.” Maummi’s voice from behind their heads sounded a bit shrill in the quiet morning. “You cut a wide path around Hays. I’ll not have my granddaughters witness the ufrooish of those wild Englischers.”
    On the other side of Papa, Rebecca heaved a loud sigh. Emma hid her grin. No doubt Rebecca would love to witness the rowdy riots of wild cowboy Englischers in the infamous railroad town of Hays.
    Papa mumbled something under his breath that sounded like “This will be the longest journey of my life,” but aloud he said, “Ja, Mader.
    With a flick of the rope, he urged the oxen forward. The wagon creaked and pitched as it rolled on its gigantic wheels. Emma grabbed the side of the bench with one hand and lifted her other hand in a final farewell as her home fell away behind her.




    Lucie's Review: An utterly delightful western adventure with an Amish twist.

    What happens when you mix an sweet Amish tale, and an action-packed Western adventure? The Heart's Frontier! And let's not forget a healthy dollop of humor!

    The Heart's Frontier is a page turning adventure, filled with fast-thinking, sharp wit, humor, and unique characters. Speaking of characters Maummi Marta was buckets of fun, in all her unpredictable glory. Definitely a favorite character. I laugh just thinking about some of the things she did!

    Overall, I would recommend The Heart's Frontier highly! Well-written and fast-paced, with tons of laugh-out-loud moments, this is a book written to be enjoyed. I couldn't help but love every minute of it!

    Final Rating: 4.25 out of 5

    I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

    3.17.2012

    Love's Sacred Song by Mesu Andrews ~ Revell Blog Tour & Review

    Love's Sacred Song

    My Review: Richly woven Biblical Fiction, based on Song of Solomon.

    I was surprised at how easily I was swept into another time and place, with Love's Sacred Song. Mesu Andrews expertly mixes historical fact, with well-crafted fiction, creating a page-turning, Biblical romance that is nearly impossible to put down.

    Now you might be wondering, "How do you make a story about a man with numerous wives, romantic?" Well, you'll have to read this book to find out! I had some doubts too, about this story, but Love's Sacred Song completely blew me away.

    I think that this book gave me some new insight on the struggles that Solomon faced, and helped me understand the circumstances under which he ended up with so many wives!

    My favorite character ended up being Jehoshaphat, Arielah's father. He was a man full of faith, with wisdom, character, and an innate sense of honor, that made him someone that I instantly admired.

    Overall, Love's Sacred Song is a bitter-sweet, yet powerful love story.Based on Song of Solomon, Love's Sacred Song is so different from the kind of book that you might typically expect to get as a result. I highly recommend this book. Even if you're like me and don't typically read Biblical Fiction, Love's Sacred Song is so good that it's totally worth giving a shot.

    Final Rating: 5 out of 5

    With thank to Revell and Donna Hausler for providing me with this review copy in return for an honest review :)

    3.16.2012

    What I'm Reading ~ Weekend 3/16-18/12

    A Texan's Honor: The Heart of a Hero

    What am I reading this weekend? That's a pretty good question! And the list might just be longer than my weekend! I'm finishing some stuff up and just starting on some others, so we'll see what I actually get around to reading.

    I recently started A Texan's Honor, which opens up in the middle of a train robbery! Yeah, talk about getting drawn in from page one!

    Here's the blurb: Texas, 1874. Years ago, Will McMillan had fought in the open, next to his Captain, Clayton Proffitt. Now he’s waging another war undercover, pretending to be a member of the notorious Walton Gang. But when a hostage situation goes awry and an innocent woman is in the middle of the fray, Will knows he must protect her no matter what happens. Even if his cover is blown. Even if they risk being killed by his gang or by the lawmen on their trail. Even if the woman he’s risking everything for will never love him back.

    Sixty Acres and a BrideAnd I'm hoping to get going on Regina Jennings' Sixty Acres and a Bride!

    Back Blurb: With nothing to their names, young widow Rosa Garner and her mother-in-law return to Texas and the family ranch. Only now the county is demanding back taxes and the women have only three months to pay. Though facing eviction, Rosa can't keep herself from falling in love with the countryside and the wonderful extended family who want only her best. Learning the American customs is not easy, however, and this beautiful young widow can't help but catch wandering eyes. Where some offer help with dangerous strings attached, only one man seems honorable. But when Weston Garner, still grieving his own lost love, is unprepared to give his heart, to what lengths will Rosa go to save her future?

    Song of My HeartAnd hopefully I'll get a start on Song of My Heart !

    Here's the back blurb:
    Sadie Wagner has always been devoted to her family. So when her stepfather is injured and can't work, she decides to leave home and accept a position as a clerk at the mercantile in Goldtree, Kansas. Goldtree also offers the opportunity to use her God-given singing talent—though the promised opera house is far different from what she imagined. With her family needing every cent she can provide, Sadie will do anything to keep her job.
    Thad McKane comes to Goldtree at the request of the town council. The town has been plagued by bootlegging operations, and Thad believes he can find the culprit. After he earns enough money doing sheriff work, he wants to use it to pay for his training to become a minister.
    Thad is immediately attracted to the beautiful singer who performs in Asa Baxter's unusual opera house, but when he hears her practicing bawdy tunes, he begins to wonder if she's far less innocent than she seems. And when Sadie appears to be part of the very crimes he's come to investigate, is there any hope the love blossoming between them will survive?

    Well, folks that's what I *hope* to be reading this weekend ;)

    What are you reading?
    I'd love to hear about it!

    And be sure to have a wonderful weekend :D

    3.15.2012

    Awesome Science: Explore Yellowstone with Noah Justice DVD ~ Review

    Explore Yellowstone with Noah Justice
    My Review: Take a trip through Yellowstone National Park, with Noah Justice!

    Awesome Science is the new DVD Creation series from Master Books, that takes you on a tour through some of the most famous natural attractions in the United States.

    This DVD was 30 minutes long and packed with fun facts about Yellowstone all without the theory of evolution! Filled with beautiful cinematography, and straightforward explanations  for the formation of some of God's most amazing natural wonders.

    Awesome Science is a creation video targeted for a younger audience, but would make a great family time pastime. Everyone will learn something new along the way!

    I enjoyed how well this video was put together, the graphics and effects were well executed. Every time I watch a Creation video or read a book, I can't help but be in awe of God's glorious creation! What I found most fascinating was learning about the formation of the petrified ridge in Yellowstone--I don't even remember seeing it when I was there! But it was so cool learning about how even things that you wouldn't even think about that much all point to a Biblical flood and Creation.

    Overall, it was a fun video, a bit short for my taste, but I can see where lots of kids have short attention spans ;) This is a DVD series that you can feel great about letting your kids watch, because there are no millions of years! A well put together series, that I would recommend highly to families with children aged 6-13!

    Final Rating: 5 out of 5

    I received this DVD from the publisher in return for an honest review :)