Friday, December 22, 2017

Merry Christmas And Happy New Year





Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all of you! I will be back after the New Year and I will have the very best books, Music, and movies.
I want to thank each and everyone of you for your support!
I hope that you all have a very Blessed Christmas!

Monday, December 18, 2017

The House On Foster Hill By Jamie Jo Wright




Outstanding Debut Novel from an Author to WatchKaine Prescott is no stranger to death. When her husband died two years ago, her pleas for further investigation into his suspicious death fell on deaf ears. In desperate need of a fresh start, Kaine purchases an old house sight unseen in her grandfather's Wisconsin hometown. But one look at the eerie, abandoned house immediately leaves her questioning her rash decision. And when the house's dark history comes back with a vengeance, Kaine is forced to face the terrifying realization she has nowhere left to hide.

A century earlier, the house on Foster Hill holds nothing but painful memories for Ivy Thorpe. When an unidentified woman is found dead on the property, Ivy is compelled to discover her identity. Ivy's search leads her into dangerous waters and, even as she works together with a man from her past, can she unravel the mystery before any other lives--including her own--are lost?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/House-Foster-Hill-Jaime-Wright/dp/076423028X/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

Professional coffee drinker & ECPA/Publisher's Weekly best-selling author, Jaime Jo Wright resides in the hills of Wisconsin writing spirited turn-of-the-century romance stained with suspense. Coffee fuels her snarky personality. She lives in Neverland with her Cap’n Hook who stole her heart and will not give it back, their little fairy TinkerBell, and a very mischievous Peter Pan. The foursome embark on scores of adventure that only make her fall more wildly in love with romance and intrigue.

Jaime lives in dreamland, exists in reality, and invites you to join her adventures at jaimejowright.com!



My Thoughts...

This is one debut book that you had better get a copy of right away!
I never put this book down until the very last page. I could not turn the pages fast enough. It was such a, I don't want to say creepy read that's not the word that I am looking for, it was suspenseful, no wait it was Riveting! I loved the characters, the storyline, the dialogue everything about this book!
I gave this book 4.5 stars and I HIGHLY recommend it. I can not wait for Wrights next book to be in my hand!  
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

I have posted pictures of daffodils and I want my bloggers that read this book after reading this review. To email me with the significance of this flower as it pertains to this book. I have an Amazon gift card for the first two people to e-mail me the correct answer. This is just open to my blog followers not other reviewers or authors.


Sunday, December 17, 2017

Devotions For the Hungry Heart By Shellie Rushing Tomlinson 2 copies fpr GIVEAWAY!



"Whether you have a healthy craving for more Jesus, or the barely discernible taste for a relationship with Him that seems beyond your reach, the glorious truth is that God put that hunger in your heart in the first place, and He is more willing to fan that flame than you or I could ever be." --From the Introduction

Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, the Belle of All Things Southern, is back with a devotional guide for the Jesus-hungry heart. Grounded in scripture and offered in the author’s signature storytelling style, this devotional invites you to God's table for a continual feast. With six prominent themes including Sharing, Needing, Celebrating, Praying, Surrendering, and Being Intentional, you'll be challenged and encouraged to develop God-honoring traits in your spiritual life.

A delightful companion book to Tomlinson’s Hungry Is a Mighty Fine Sauce, Devotions for the Hungry Heart features a bonus full-color insert featuring more than a dozen mouthwatering recipes plus photos. You're guaranteed to find nourishment for your body as well as your spirit!

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Devotions-Hungry-Heart-Chasing-Sunday/dp/1683224329/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1513461112&sr=8-1&keywords=devotions+for+the+hungry+heart

Shellie is the fun-loving energetic storytelling host of ATS LIVE, a radio talk show that airs live every Monday evening on TALK 540 out of Monroe, Louisiana. In addition, her pretaped All Things Southern radio segments air Monday through Friday on 28 affiliates across the south. Shellie is a popular humorist, speaker, and the author of the nonfiction humor titles Suck Your Stomach In and Put Some Color On” and Sue Ellen’s Girl Ain’t Fat, She Just Weighs Heavy!” Both received nominations for SIBA Nonfiction Book of the Year and led Jeff Foxworthy to call her, "Laugh out loud funny!" Kori and Missy Robertson of A&E's Duck Dynasty endorsed Shellie's latest release and debut book in the faith market, Heart Wide Open, saying it will fuel your desire for a deeper relationship with God.

My Thoughts...

I loved Hungry Is a Mighty Fine Sauce Cookbook: Recipes and Ramblings from the Belle of All Things Southern. So I was excited for this Devotional. Tomlinson has a wonderful sense of humor.
This is not your average Devotional its got colorful recipes in it and the twenty week devotional is quick reads with scripture but in true Tomlinson fashion you will find humor in them as well.
I highly recommend this 5 star devotional and it will make a wonderful Christmas gift to start the new year out.
The Mary Reader received this book from the Wynn Wynn Media for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Friday, December 15, 2017

Interview with Pastor Devon Blanton




The Assignment is a fantastic Bible study for the individual or small groups. It addresses the big questions such as why are we born and why do bad things happen to good people? It is eye opening, full of inspiration and challenges. It can change your world!

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/ASSIGNMENT-here-purpose-doesnt-mystery/dp/1974430774/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1513205147&sr=1-1



Dr. Devon Blanton is a pastor conducting a full time ministry along with a very busy Christian Counseling practice. He holds an earned Doctorate in Religious Education, specializing in Counseling. He is certified in Family and Marriage, Grief and Drug Abuse and Health and Nutrition. He is also a Certified Health Coach. His post-doctoral pursuits include an earned diploma in Psychiatric Studies. He also completed brief studies in Cardiology and Resuscitation from Perelman School of Medicine, Penn State University. He further expanded His studies in nutrition from Texas A&M, Vanderbilt University and Stanford University. This all coincides with his four pillar philosophy on Counseling. These focus on the Physical, Spiritual, Emotional and Financial parts of who we are. He is also the Founder of Cross Anchors Solutions, a high level training program out of Durham, NC providing training in Leadership Development, Biblical Counseling I, II, Advanced Biblical Counseling and Health and Nutrition.

Welcome Pastor Devon

What sparked your decision to journey down the path of writing The Assignment?
After many years of pastoring and counseling, I realized that most believers didn’t really know why they are here. The number one question over all others is why am I here. I began preaching on the subject and just wrote a book out of that experience.



What is the most important thing you hope readers will take away from reading The Assignment? I would like for each reader to have that “ah ha” moment for which every writer hopes. The amazing discovery of how our purpose is simple is a powerful and shocking revelation. Understanding the big picture view that God offers us is key to that understanding. We look at the view very carefully.




What did you find to be the most difficult part of writing this book?
Most of the time when I write, it just flows like a waterfall. The writing is easy. On the other hand, the editing is hard because it must be written in a way that everyone can easily understand. My brain tends to think in awkward sentences that don’t make a lot of sense to my readers. That part is grueling. Content means everything to a theological writer, so I must do sentence structures myself so that the exact meaning remains intact.




Did you at any time get writer's block? If so what did you do to overcome that obstacle?
I never get writers block. It just flows. I have a system that I use as a guide to writing. I simply write a list of carefully crafted questions about the subject that I am about to write about and then answer all the questions. Usually I write one chapter (the answer) for each question. It got me through college and post grad school and served me well. It is a sure-fire way of covering the subject clearly. At least, that is my main goal and I think it works for the reader.



 

You are known for your great sense of humor. How much humor will readers see in your writing? It is a difficult thing to write humor in a sentence particularly when theology is the subject. However, my candor and mid-western plain talk is usually seen as character and most people are grateful for an honest strait talker. My sense of humor is off the chain, so the more people learn about my personality, the more they can see it in my writing.




What is your favorite scripture? And why?
It is hard to lock down a particular scripture but in a nutshell, I really like Galatians 2:20. Understanding that it’s not at all about us is key to negotiating this life in the best interest of the Kingdom. My goal is to be sure that my body submits to the true leadership of the Holy Spirit. It’s a tall order but it will never be accomplished with a lesser desire; that’s for certain.



Tell us a little about your family, and your church....
My wife and I have been married 43 years. We have two sons, one of whom is married with a beautiful 1-year-old daughter and a son on the way. We are so blessed! Our wonderful church is amazing. We focus on “equipping the saints for ministry”. We try to avoid the modern pitfalls of “business as usual” and the clubhouse mentality of many modern churches today. Our emphasis dictates that we get serious about our faith while we live, love and laugh together. It’s a great community of believers with open arms for anyone wanting to know more about our Lord.




If you could go anywhere in the where would it be and why?
Like most believers, I would love to go to Israel at some point. However, I am quite content to spend time with my wife at the beach or somewhere in the mountains. We like to go off season when it is quiet. We would enjoy mingling with different cultures such as in Mexico, Scotland or maybe even South Africa.



What is one accomplishment that you are most proud of?
I have done a lot of things in my life, but I most enjoy being a father and a husband. I also enjoy having great friends whom I love as family.



 
Tell my readers where they can keep up with you.
I can be found on Facebook under my name “Devon Blanton.”  A new website is underway now. The Cross Anchor Solutions page is also a good way to connect on Facebook. That is the core company through which I book speaking engagements. I founded it as well.

Thursday, December 14, 2017

Turtles in the Road By Rhonda Rhea




Sometimes a detour takes you exactly where you need to be.

Piper Cope was so sure the Lord called her to be a pastor’s wife. So when her pastor/fiancĂ© breaks it off, she’s every kind of puzzled. Does God even have a purpose for her anymore? On the road halfway between the bridges she’s burned and some kind of new start, she encounters the most unexpected detour. She swerves on a rainy road to miss a turtle and ends up in a ditch with an airbag to the face. Now stuck in this little town, she wonders how in the world she could’ve gotten her God-signals so very crossed. And how in the world is she supposed to know what He wants her to do now? In the meantime, at least the community center guy, Jay Marler, has her working a temporary job there. Problem is, somehow she’s coaching a children’s basketball team. She does not…basketball. And she certainly does not children.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Turtles-Road-Novel-Rhonda-Rhea/dp/1946708038/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=



Rhonda Rhea is an author, speaker and TV personality who says, "a good psychosis is a terrible thing to waste." She says she's milked hers--even as a Bible teacher. Rhonda is a funny lady who speaks at conferences and events nationwide.

Anyone interested in writing and speaking? Rhonda advises to have five kids. "They're not cheap but they're a great source of material." Her five are now grown but she says they're still providing great content for her books, speaking events and radio and TV appearances.

Rhonda works with Christian Television Network's KNLJ in Jefferson City, Missouri and WHTN in Nashville, Tennessee. She is a pastor's wife, happily married and living in the St. Louis area. She is a humor columnist for many magazines and is the author of 12 books, 11 nonfiction--including the new co-authored project with Beth Duewel titled, FIX-HER-UPPER. She also has a brand new, super-fun fiction project co-authored with her daughter, Kaley Rhea. It's a hilarious Christian romantic comedy called, TURTLES IN THE ROAD. Rhonda says she will keep cranking the books out as long as the Lord allows. --And the psychoses hold out.

My Thoughts...

Looking for a fast fun read? This is just that a fun fast read. Rhea has written a humorous clean read that is perfect for this time of year.
You can read it in one sitting and it will lift you up and cheer you up.
I gave this book 4 stars and I hope that you give it a try.
 The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Blown Together By Janet Ferguson


When love storms in...
Wealth manager Sam Conrad is accustomed to his domineering father ordering him around, especially at the bank where they both work. But when his father demands that Sam manage the inheritance of his bossy ex-fiancée, Sam has finally had enough. He leaves in search of a new life, and attorney Big Roy Bosarge from Mobile, Alabama, agrees to mentor Sam on his quest for direction. Sam didn't expect to be thrown together with Big Roy's eccentric and opinionated daughter.

Storm damage forces lonely romance writer Elinor Bosarge and her hairless cat, Mr. Darcy, out of her Fort Morgan Beach cottage. She plans to take refuge in the boathouse on her parents' estate, but finds the place already occupied by one of her father's "projects." She's shocked her father would allow another young man onto the property after his last mentee robbed her family and broke her heart. And from the moment she meets Sam Conrad, they disagree about everything from her cat to how to best renovate a local nursing home.

Between her mother's health issues and the hurricane brewing in the Gulf, Elinor feels like her life is being ripped apart. It doesn't help that she's falling for the man she's determined not to trust. Sam finds himself drawn to Elinor, wanting to help her and this new family he's grown to love. But can he overcome the barrier she's built to keep him out? When the storm rages and the two of them are blown together, can Elinor find the faith to open her heart again?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Blown-Together-Southern-Hearts-4/dp/0997658746/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

 
Janet W. Ferguson grew up in Mississippi and received a degree in Banking and Finance from the University of Mississippi. She has served her church as a children's minister and a youth volunteer. An avid reader, she worked as a librarian at a large public high school. Janet and her husband have two grown children, one really smart dog, and a few cats that allow them to share the space.

This is book four in the Southern Hearts Series.

Tuesday, December 12, 2017

Tackling the Fields By Janet Furguson


Cole Sanders is a changed man. The university quarterback questions his direction in life after serving on a mission trip in Honduras. Things that used to fill Cole's ego seem empty after witnessing the developing country's extreme poverty and the death of a precious child. The one glimmer of hope through his confusion is the fresh perspective he now has about his tutor, Audrey. She possesses something beautiful inside and out--something that might help him become the person he wants to be.

University senior Audrey Vaughn tutored Cole Sanders for an entire year and never imagined the popular quarterback would see her as anything more than a friend. After partnering with him on the mission trip, they are drawn together. And he appears to have changed for the better. To let Cole into her life, Audrey will have to overcome not only her brother's distrust, but also the paralyzing fear still lingering from a past she's tried to leave behind.

Cole can't walk away from Audrey now that they're back in Oxford. He'll have to figure out how to keep her giant of a brother, a lineman on his football team, from killing him when the coach has his back turned. But can Audrey trust her heart to a player so similar to the one who stole so much from her in the past?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Tackling-Fields-Southern-Hearts-3/dp/0997482281/ref=sr_1_sc_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1512957390&sr=1-1-spell&keywords=Tackling+the+fields+Janet+Fergusen



Janet W. Ferguson grew up in Mississippi and received a degree in Banking and Finance from the University of Mississippi. She has served her church as a children's minister and a youth volunteer. An avid reader, she worked as a librarian at a large public high school. Janet and her husband have two grown children, one really smart dog, and a few cats that allow them to share the space.

I just wanted to share book three in the Southern Hearts series with those of you who have read my review of the first two and bought copies of them.

Monday, December 11, 2017

You're Gonna Love Me By Robin Lee Hatcher



Who knew fate could twist a tragedy into a second chance at love?
Samantha Winters lives her life the way a good accountant should—measured, deliberate, and safe. After watching her father die in a tragic skiing accident, she decided never to allow risk into her life again. But she didn’t count on falling for Nick Chastain, who embodies everything she doesn’t want in her safely constructed world.
Against Samantha’s warnings, Nick plans a dangerous kayaking trip over spring break. Furious that he’s so careless with his life, she ends their fledgling relationship with harsh words.
Two years later, Samantha is desperately in need of a change. When she learns her grandmother has had an accident and is in need of a caretaker, Samantha quickly packs her bags and heads to Thunder Creek, Idaho. But nothing could prepare her for the surprise awaiting her in her grandmother’s hospital room . . . Nick.
With the charming backdrop of small-town friends, beloved cousins, and a whole church congregation rooting for them, can they set aside the disastrous ending of their first try at love? Has Nick changed enough to meet Samantha in the middle—and can she realize that a risk in love might be worth taking?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Youre-Gonna-Love-Robin-Hatcher/dp/0718085973/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1512953566&sr=8-1&keywords=you%27re+gonna+love+me+by+robin+lee+hatcher




Best-selling novelist Robin Lee Hatcher is known for her heartwarming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. Winner of the Christy, the RITA, the Carol, the Inspirational Reader's Choice, and many other industry awards, Robin is also a recipient of Lifetime Achievement Awards from both Romance Writers of America and American Christian Fiction Writers. She is the author of 75+ novels and novellas with over five million copies in print.

Robin enjoys being with her family, spending time in the beautiful Idaho outdoors, reading books that make her cry, and watching romantic movies. Her main hobby (when time allows) is knitting, and she has a special love for making prayer shawls. A mother and grandmother, Robin and her husband make their home on the outskirts of Boise, sharing it with Boo, the high-maintenance Papillon puppy, and Princess Pinky, the DC (demon cat).

Robin is active on her Facebook Author Page where she loves to interact with readers. Please join her there: http://www.facebook.com/robinleehatcher

For more information, please visit her website at http://www.robinleehatcher.com

Please note: Robin's faith-based fiction has been published from 1999 to present. She no longer recommends her older mass-market fiction.                

My Thoughts...
A love story filled with faith. I could see this book being made into a  Hallmark  movie. The book plays out as you are reading it in your mind so vivid. I loved the characters Samantha and Nick so much. I think  this may just be Hatcher's best book.  Well until the next one comes out that is.
I got lost in this book and before I knew it I had read the whole book in one sitting. So don't make any plans when you get your copy, you will get lost in this one for a few hours. And you will get nothing done.
This is a FIVE star book, I HIGHLY recommend it.
 The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Friday, December 8, 2017

Dangerous Ground By Gayla Hiss



It started with an anonymous note—would it end with Kate’s death? Uncle Owen had died mysteriously, and Deputy Marshal Kate Phillips wants to know why. After arriving at Great Smoky Mountains National Park in search of answers, Kate finds herself at the center of an ancient family feud and a land dispute. It turns out a surprising number of people have an interest in her uncle’s estate. Even David Jennings, Kate’s handsome Good Samaritan who rescued her when she arrived, thinks he has a claim on Owen’s property—which some say is cursed. Amid the mounting secrets and rumors circulating in the seemingly peaceful community, Kate has a secret of her own—one that could threaten her life and any future she might have with David. It soon becomes clear someone is targeting her. Could Kate’s troubled past have come back to haunt her, or have the clues she’s uncovered about her uncle’s suspicious death put her life in danger? To solve the mystery, Kate needs David’s help. But can they pull together before time runs out? Or will they become the next victims when it all explodes?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Dangerous-Ground-Peril-Park-2/dp/1943959315/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1512690455&sr=8-1&keywords=Dangerous+Ground+By+Gayla+Hiss


Gayla’s writing journey began with her hobby painting landscapes. In her imagination, characters and scenes came to life as she painted beautiful natural settings. Her inspiring novels combine her love for the great outdoors with romance, mystery and suspense.

Gayla and her husband often tour the country in their RV, visiting many state and national parks. She enjoys hiking, camping, and traveling, and currently resides in the Pacific Northwest.

To learn more and sign up for her newsletter, visit http://www.gaylakhiss.com/

My Thoughts...

Let me start by saying that this is book two in the  Peril in the Park Series. In my opinion it was much better then book one. The plot and the characters were well rounded and thought out very well in this book. I found Rick and Grace to be my favorite characters.
I hope that you will give this book a try. It can be read as a stand alone.
I gave this book 4 stars.
  The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Thursday, December 7, 2017

Blessed Life By Kim Fields



Kim Fields has lived most of her life with people thinking they know her, which is understandable. From her first job on a Mrs. Butterworth syrup commercial at age 7, she has spent 40 years in the public eye. There were 9 years as Dorothy "Tootie" Ramsey on the classic sitcom The Facts of Life, 5 more in her 20s starring as Regine Hunter on the seminal coming-of-age show Living Single, and most recently appearing as herself on Real Housewives of Atlanta and Dancing with the Stars.

Behind the camera, she has directed episodes of Kenan & Kel, Tyler Perry's Meet the Browns and House of Payne, and BET's Let's Stay Together. Between gigs, the pop culture icon's life has included theater, spoken word, music, speaking engagements, and simply being present to the point that she cannot go a day without someone stopping her to say, "When I was a kid, I wanted to be Tootie" or "You were my role model."

Flattered and blessed, after four decades in the business, Kim finally understands the role she has played onscreen and off as a successful, outspoken African-American woman. However, for as much as she's been in the public eye, people have really never known her the way they think they have, and that's because she, herself, spent most of her life figuring herself out. Now, at age 48, she is ready to set the record straight. She says, "It's not that I've been misunderstood. It's that I finally feel like I understand me enough to tell the life story that I've been asked to write for years." It will be a chronicle of living, learning, and keen moments of self-discovery as she's journeyed through the many facets and chapters of life. Fields found faith at age 14 and has found God to be right there every step of the way since then.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Blessed-Life-Surprising-Journey-Hollywood/dp/1478947543/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1512525534&sr=8-1&keywords=blessed+life+by+kim+fields


KIM FIELDS had her first job at age 7 on the Mrs. Butterworth syrup commercial. She's spent 40 years in the public eye. There were 9 years as Dorothy "Tootie" Ramsey on the classic sitcom The Facts of Life, 5 more in her 20s co-starring on the seminal coming-of-age show Living Single, and most recently she appeared as herself on Real Housewives of Atlanta and Dancing with the Stars. Behind the camera, she directed episodes of Kenan & Kel, Tyler Perry's Meet the Browns and House of Payne, and BET's Let's Stay Together. Between gigs her life has included theater, spoken word, music, and speaking engagements. She is a dedicated wife and proud mom of two boys. She and her family live in Atlanta, Georgia.

MY Thoughts...

Kim, gets personal and shares with us about her Blessed Life in this intimate and personal memoir.
We all loved Kim in the Facts of Life and then in Living Single and she went on to be one of the Real Housewives of Atlanta and appeared on Dancing with the Stars. Just to name a few.  She gets down and real with her life story and a lot of hard core truths are shared, she digs deep in the book. She shares many stories you will never hear any where else.
I was honored to get to read and review Blessed Life. I loved getting to know the REAL Kim.
I gave this book 4 stars and I recommend this read. I learned a little bit about myself while reading this one as well.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Wednesday, December 6, 2017

The Sound Of Rain By Sarah Laudin Thomas




Judd Markley is a hardworking coal miner who rarely thinks much past tomorrow until he loses his brother--and nearly his own life--in a mine cave-in. Vowing never to enter the darkness of a mine again, he leaves all he knows in West Virginia to escape to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It's 1954, the seaside community is thriving, and Judd soon hires on with a timber company.

Larkin Heyward's life in Myrtle Beach is uncomplicated, mostly doing volunteer work and dancing at the Pavilion. But she dreams of one day doing more--maybe moving to the hollers of Kentucky to help the poor children of Appalachia. But she's never even met someone who's lived there--until she encounters Judd, the newest employee at her father's timber company.

Drawn together in the wake of a devastating hurricane, Judd and Larkin each seek answers to what tomorrow will bring. As opposition rises against following their divergent dreams, they realize that it may take a miracle for them to be together.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Sound-Rain-Sarah-Loudin-Thomas/dp/0764219618/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1512437912&sr=8-1&keywords=the+sound+of+rain+sarah+Thomas


Sarah Loudin Thomas grew up on a 100-acre farm in French Creek, WV, the seventh generation to live there. Her Christian fiction is set in West Virginia and celebrates the people, the land, and the heritage of Appalachia. Her first novel, Miracle in a Dry Season, released August 2014. Married with one dog, she now lives in Western North Carolina, which is almost as beautiful as West Virginia.

My Thoughts...

Are you in the mood for a cute love story, a clean one? Then you just might enjoy this one.
It was a bit to slow for my liking that said it was a book I would recommend for someone wanting to read a cute romance.
I like the feeling of living in the 1950's and there was one character that I liked Granny Jane her being from Kentucky did not hurt but she will make you smile.
I gave this book 3.5 stars.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Tuesday, December 5, 2017

Interview with Cara Putman




THE POLICE SAY THE WOMAN WAS A MURDERER. EMILIE WESLEY KNOWS THEY CAN’T BE TALKING ABOUT HER CLIENT . . . CAN THEY?
To the world it seems obvious: Kaylene Adams killed her daughter and then was shot by police. Attorney Emilie Wesley knows a different story: Kaylene would never hurt anyone and was looking for a way out of a controlling, abusive relationship. Her death shakes Emilie’s belief that she can make a difference for women in violent marriages. Self-doubt plagues her as she struggles to continue her work in the wake of the tragedy.
Reid Billings thought he knew his sister—right up until he learned how she died. He discovers a letter from Kaylene begging him to fight for custody of her daughters if anything should happen to her. No attorney in her right mind would support an uncle instead of the father in a custody case, but Kaylene’s letter claims Emilie Wesley will help him.
Thrown together in a race to save Kaylene’s surviving daughter, Emily and Reid pursue the constantly evasive truth. If they can hang on to hope together, can they save a young girl—and find a future for themselves in the process?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Imperfect-Justice-Hidden-Cara-Putman/dp/0718083482/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1512366333&sr=8-1&keywords=imperfect+justice+cara+putman



Since the time I could read Nancy Drew, I have wanted to write mysteries. In 2005 I attended a book signing at my local Christian bookstore. The rest, as they say, is history. There I met Colleen Coble. With prompting from my husband, I shared my dream with Colleen. Since those infamous words, I've been writing award-winning books with the count currently at 25.

In addition to writing, I am a homeschooling mom of four, attorney, lecturer at a Big Ten university, active in women's ministry, and all around crazy woman. Crazy about God, my husband, and my kids. I graduated with honors from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (Go Huskers!), George Mason Law School, and Purdue University's MBA program. You can learn more about my books at http://www.caraputman.com. And if you'd like a copy of my legal suspense novella, Dying for Love, simply connect with me here (http://www.caraputman.com/contact/ ) , and I'll send you the link.


 Welcome Cara, So glad to have you with us today!

1)  What sparked your decision to journey down the path to write Imperfect Justice?
 
     When I envisioned the Hidden Justice series, I knew that each of the women in the cohort of four would get their own story, but I didnt know exactly what those stories would be. Haydens Beyond Justice became based on juvenile immigration issues. Then I turned to Emilie, Haydens roommate and started thinking about issues Im passionate about and would resonate with who she is. I was sitting in Siena at our apartment (I was teaching there for Purdue) and saw a headline about a domestic violence situation in Houston and my mind began to spin what ifs. Emilies story was born.

 
2) Share a little tidbit about Emilie and Reid with us.

Emilie likes erasable pens like I do, and Reid is based in part of my husband and feedback from readers. They told me they wanted to see more heroes that are like the men in their lives. So hes living life and then asked to step into bigger things.

3) What is your favorite genre to write legal thrillers, historical romance or romantic suspense novels?

            Oh, such a hard question. I like each of them for different reasons. I adore bringing real events from WWII to life and wrapping them in a story. I love the pacing and action of a thriller. And I love the tension and romance in suspense. Im marrying legal thrillers and romantic suspense with the Hidden Justice series, and I know one of them will have a WWII tie. Just not sure which one. J

 
4) How does being an attorney compare to being an author?  And how does that compare to teaching undergraduate law courses?

            I know they look like such divergent careers, but in reality theyre closely tied. At the core each job is about communicating. In law school I learned how to write fast and cleanly. Reading voraciously taught me about story and character. Being an attorney taught me to think quickly on my feet when in court while also doing the deep research and writing needed for appellate briefs. My graduate and undergraduate classes allow me to combine that on your feet communicating skill with a passion for knowing my students. I am blessed to be able to do the three.

 
5) Share with us your favorite place to get away and write.

            I have a home office again which is a great blessing. But I also have an office at Krannert and another at the law firm. Sometimes I have to mix it up. Ive also written at my husbands office at the church, Panera, and McCallisters. Basically, I need a plug for my computer and time.

 
6) What would I find around your computer that you have been snacking on when you are on deadline?

            Oh, to take a photo and show you the chaos! Its nuts. Usually I have files for characters, research books and articles, character interviews, calendars to keep the action straight, my erasable, colored pens, a chocolate bar, and a glass of water, coffee, or both!

 
7) What book are you working on now? Can you share just a little bit about it?

            I just turned in the third book in the Hidden Justice series. I cant wait for people to get to know Jaime better in Delayed Justice. And Im eager to dive into Carolines story next. Im also finishing a book for Guidepost and have another one to turn in right after Christmas. Lots of books percolating!

 
8) If you could have one superpower what would it be?

Stopping time. I really need that one to get everything done that I need to do. Id say a superpower I do have is communicating. I love teaching and writing. And when I look back across my career communication is at the core of each experience. But man, if I could have Wonder Womans lasso of truth or Elastigirls flexibility, it would be amazing!

 
9) Share with us your top 5 favorite authors and/or books of all time.

·         Colleen Coble

·         Dee Henderson

·         Randy Singer

·         Lisa Gardner

·         Julianna Deering.

It really is unfair to ask a question like this. I mean Ive already read 77 books this year, and I wont finish a book if I dont enjoy it. You can see the books Ive loved this year here: https://www.goodreads.com/user_challenges/7650912

 
10) Tell my readers where they can keep up with you.








My Thoughts...

Imperfect Justice was a 5 star read and I was so impatient waiting for this second book in the Hidden Justice series. It was so worth the wait. I loved the romance and the legal thriller combination of this book.
You are going to love Emilee and Reid. I can't wait for you all to read this one. 
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Monday, December 4, 2017

Going Up South By Janet Ferguson




No one told him he had a son.

Actor Dylan Conner is furious. Not only has he been left out of his child's life, the baby boy has been given another man's last name. Determined to be a better father than the sorry guy who'd left him and his mother, Dylan fights to ensure a significant place in his son's life. Unfortunately, his bad-boy reputation overshadows his good intentions. Only one woman in this small town sees beyond his Hollywood image. And he's falling for her. Too bad she's the custody mediator.

After her scandalous divorce in the small town of Oxford, Mississippi, attorney Cassie Brooks has no intentions of practicing law again. The humiliating experience left a bitter taste for love, marriage, and her profession.

Now friends need Cassie's help in a custody negotiation, and her role demands she remain objective. She never expected to be drawn to Dylan Conner--the actor who everyone warns is bad news. Not only is the mediation at stake, but so is her heart.

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Going-Up-South-Southern-Hearts/dp/0997482265/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

 
Janet W. Ferguson grew up in Mississippi and received a degree in Banking and Finance from the University of Mississippi. She has served her church as a children's minister and a youth volunteer. An avid reader, she worked as a librarian at a large public high school. Janet and her husband have two grown children, one really smart dog, and a few cats that allow them to share the space.


My Thoughts...

Book two in the Southern Hearts series. Going Up South was such a good read, much better than book one. It can be a stand alone and I would say start with this one. There are two more books in this series and I am going to go ahead and say they are going to be added to your to be read pile. (my reviews are coming up soon).
I loved the characters and the storyline. I hope that you give this book a try. 
I gave this book 4 stars. I recommend it.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

Saturday, December 2, 2017

To the Moon & Back By Kathi Macias



Life had changed drastically for Rachel since the accident, but none of the changes had prepared her for what followed. She wasn’t even sure when it started. She knew only that the darkness appeared more often and lasted longer, accompanied by forgetfulness, fear, confusion…even suspicion. As a result of the accident—which she was certain was entirely her fault—her husband of nearly 45 years was now a semi-invalid, his dependence on her growing by the day. Their only child, a grown daughter named Lilly, lived hours away and was dealing with difficulties of her own, not the least of which was an unwanted divorce. Rachel, however, had no concept of Lilly’s suffering, instead believing her 35-year-old daughter was still a college coed with her entire life ahead of her.

Can this fractured family find its way to a place of healing, or will the darkness prevail, destroying them all in its unrelenting torment? Unconditional love seems to be their only hope…but how are they to get there?

Pick up your copy here...
https://www.amazon.com/Moon-Back-Kathi-Macias/dp/1975940237/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8


Multiple award-winning author Kathi Macias's more than 40 books include the Quilt series, Freedom series, and the award-winning Extreme Devotion novels for New Hope Publishers. Her devotionals reach hundreds of thousands through the Christian Civic League, Black Christian News, Latino Christian News, Christians in Recovery, and crosswalk.com. The Excellence in Media Angel Award, San Diego Christian Writers Guild fiction awards, Golden Scroll Novel of the Year (Red Ink), Carol Award finalist (Red Ink), 2011 Author of the Year for BooksandAuthors.net, and an international writing contest grand prize are some of her credits. A popular speaker for women's retreats, conferences, churches, and TV and radio programs, Kathi also loves outreach to prison and homeless ministries, and praying for and aiding the persecuted church globally. A mother and grandmother, Kathi lives with her husband, Al, in California.

My Thoughts...

A book about dementia by the timeless author we have all loved over the years.
She can take a fiction story and stick you right dab in the middle of it.
You feel like you are living out the story.
Macias gives it all away in the very beginning, when she says "God stands ready to carry you all the way".
In true Macias fashion, you will get a good clean read with God breathed reading on every page.
I hope that you will check this one out.
I gave this book 4 stars. I would recommend it to Macias fans.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.