A Miracle of Hope By Ruth Ried

How far can God's mercy reach?

Lindie Wyse is pregnant out of wedlock and thinks an arranged marriage is the only way to preserve her future. Josiah Plank is certain he’ll never love again, but he needs someone to care for his eight-year-old daughter, Hannah. The two take on their arrangement tentatively at first but soon realize they are each in for more than they imagined.

Lindie experiences a breakthrough with Hannah when she recognizes Hannah’s special gifts, but a risky pregnancy and serious health issues threaten to demolish the foundation Josiah and Lindie are building. Will their growing love survive despite their struggles, or will their hearts become as cold as the northern winter?

 

You must pick a copy of this book..

http://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Hope-Amish-Wonders/dp/1401688292/ref=sr_1_1_title_1_pap?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1383094448&sr=1-1&keywords=a+miracle+of+hope

Ruth Reid is a CBA and ECPA best-selling author of the Heaven on Earth series. She's a full-time pharmacist who lives in Florida with her husband and three children. When attending Ferris State University School of Pharmacy in Big Rapids, Michigan, she lived on the outskirts of an Amish community and had several occasions to visit the Amish farms. Her interest grew into love as she saw the beauty in living a simple life.

This was by far Ruth's best book yet. I could not put it down for one second it was so good. I had to know if Josiah was going to make it. I pulled for Lindie every step of the way.

This has to be said this book was better then anything you have every read by Beverly Lewis.

This is not an author to miss.

I gave this book 5 stars two times, it was so good!

I HIGHLY recommend this book.

I was given a copy of this book by the author for my honest review.

The Quaker and the Rebel By Mary Ellis

Bestselling author Mary Ellis presents The Quaker and the Rebel, Book 1 of her brand-new Civil War historical romance series, which tells the stories of brave women in times of testing and the men who love them.
Emily Harrison's life has been turned upside down. At the beginning of the Civil War, she bravely attempted to continue her parents' work as conductors in the Underground Railroad until their Ohio farm was sold in foreclosure. Now alone, she accepts a position as a governess with a doctor's family in slave-holding Virginia. Perhaps she can continue her rescue efforts from there.
Alexander Hunt is the doctor's handsome nephew. While he does not deny a growing attraction to his uncle's newest employee, he cannot take time to pursue Emily. Alex is not at all what he seems--rich, spoiled, and indolent. He is the elusive Gray Wraith, a Quaker leader of Rebel partisans. A man of the shadows, he carries no firearm and wholeheartedly believes in Emily's antislavery convictions.
The path before Alex and Emily is complicated and sometimes life threatening. The war brings betrayal, entrapment, and danger to both of them. Amid their growing feelings for each other, can they find faith in God amid the challenges they face and trust in the possibility for a bright future together?

Pick up your copy here

http://www.amazon.com/Quaker-Rebel-Civil-Heroines-Series/dp/0736950508/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1387553612&sr=1-1

Mary Ellis grew up close to the eastern Ohio Amish community, Geauga County, where her parents often took her to farmer's markets and woodworking fairs. She loved their peaceful, agrarian lifestyle, their respect for the land, and their strong sense of Christian community.

She and her husband now live close to the largest population of Amish in the country--a four-county area in central Ohio. They often take weekend trips to purchase produce, meet Amish families, and enjoy a simpler way of life.

Mary enjoys reading, traveling, gardening, bicycling and swimming. But her favorite pasttime is snorkeling, which she seldom gets to do living in Ohio. She is a former middle school teacher and a former saleswoman for the world's best chocolate company. Now she writes full-time and wonders why her house is still dusty and her garden has so many weeds. She is currently working on the New Beginnings series. Book 1-Living in Harmony is set in Maine and released in August. Book 2-Love Comes to Paradise is set in Missouri and will release in Feb 2013. Book 3-A Little Bit of Paradise is set in Kentucky and will release in July of 2013.

As you all already know I am a huge fan of Mary's she is one of the best Amish fiction authors, so I could not wait to read the first book in her Civil War series.

I was not disappointed at all, it was everything I knew it would be and more.

I could not put the book down once I picked it up. This is a romance that you do not want to miss.

The characters are strong wonderful characters that you will fall in love with.

I gave this book 5 stars and I highly recommend this fantastic book.

I was given a copy of this book by the author for my honest review. 

Tempest's Course By Lynette Sowell GIVEAWAY!

Kelly Frost, a textiles conservator, is invited to the Massachusetts coastal city of New Bedford to restore a 150-year-old Mariner's Compass quilt. But there is one stipulation: she must live and work in Gray House, a former whaling captain's home, where the quilt is stored. There she meets Army veteran Tom Pereira, the caretaker of Gray House, whose heart seems as hard as the rocky Massachusetts coastline. Over the long-lit months as Kelly works to restore the quilt, she and Tom grow closer. And as she reads stories in a daily journal penned by Mary Gray, she learns the secrets of the quilt and Mary's own sad tale of regret. Then Tom learns secrets of his own family's past, and both Tom and Kelly learn they are tied to Gray House in ways they never imagined.

Pick up your copy here

http://www.amazon.com/Tempests-Course-Quilts-Love-Series/dp/1426752768/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1387227091&sr=8-1

Lynette Sowell is the award-winning author of over one dozen titles for Barbour Publishing. In 2009, Lynette was voted one of the favorite new authors by Heartsong Presents book club readers. Her historical romance, All That Glitters, was a finalist in ACFW's 2010 Carol Awards. When Lynette's not writing, she divides her time between editing medical reports and chasing down news stories for the Copperas Cove Leader-Press. Lynette was born in Massachusetts, raised on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, but makes her home on the doorstep of the Texas hill country with her husband and a herd of cats who have them well-trained. She loves reading, cooking, watching movies, and is always up for a Texas road trip.
You can find Lynette at her Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/lynettesowellauthor

I was not a fan of the character  Kelly. I would have liked for her to be more of an overcomer.

I did really enjoy the wonderful quilt restoration in the story.I have really enjoyed most of the Quilts of Love series books and this one is one that I think most of you will enjoy as well.

I gave this book 4 stars.

I was given a copy of this book by Wynn Wynn media for my honest review.

Shadowed By Grace By Cara Putman GIVEAWAY!

Shadowed by Grace is a dramatic story inspired by the Monuments Men of World War II by acclaimed author Cara C. Putman. Desperate to save her dying mother, Rachel accepts her newspaper’s assignment to travel to Italy to capture images dangerously close to the front lines of WWII. Her real motive – to find the father she never knew -- an artist she hopes can offer the comfort and support both she and her mother need to survive. It’s an unlikely situation for love and faith to flourish, but soon Rachel not only finds herself, but also her long-lost earthly father, and ultimately, the man her Heavenly father created to cherish and provide for her.

Pick up your copy here

http://www.amazon.com/Shadowed-Grace-Story-Monuments-Men/dp/1433681781/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1387213515&sr=1-1

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 books.

Shadowed by Grace is my 17th novel and a story of my heart. I have also written one non-fiction title (the Complete Idiots Guide to Business Law).

In addition to writing, I am an 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!) and George Mason Law School. Because I had a few spare moments, I am now in Purdue University's MBA program. You can learn more about my books at http://www.caraputman.com.

Shadowed by Grace has a very neat plot line. Cara is a very talented author. She sucks you in and you go back in time in the book as if you were really there lost in the pages.

Are you a fan of war crimes, and WW2 stories, and do you love historical fiction? If you said yes then this is your book. You will love it and you will not be able to put it down.

I recommend this book and I gave it 5 stars.

I was given a copy of this book by Wynn Wynn media for my honest review.

Healing Grace By Beth Shriver GIVEAWAY!

Can Abby overcome the pain caused by her father and find acceptance among the Amish? Abby finds more than love and safety when she meets Mose, as she struggles with the faith she left behind after the death of her mother. After time spent with Mose and his family she knows she has to make a choice. Will Abby stay with Mose or go back to her sick father who needs her.

SERIES DESCRIPTION

The Touch of Grace trilogy series is about three faithful women who, when faced with three separate hardships, are torn between the men they love and staying true to themselves. Grace saves. Even in a world where retribution is almost expected, the Amish demonstrate that all can be pardoned, by following their vow of no resistance which shows the deep-rooted forgiveness within them.

 

Pick up your copy here

http://www.amazon.com/Healing-Grace-Touch-Beth-Shriver/dp/1621362973/ref=sr_1_1_bnp_1_pap?ie=UTF8&qid=1386677572&sr=8-1&keywords=healing+grace+beth+shriver

Best selling author, Beth Shriver, wrote her first novel in 2002 and a year later it was published. She was a caseworker before starting a family, grew up in Nebraska, and now lives in Texas. She became interested in writing about the Amish when researching her family history and found she was related to the the Glick families in Europe.

Beth also freelances for the local papers in her area, writes columns, devotionals, and novels in a variety of genres in both fiction and nonfiction.
Beth followed her passion and now writes full time.

Beth has plenty of company when she writes, with her two cats and a beagle. She visits Amish communities in her area and Lancaster, Pennsylvania. When not spending time with her family or friends she helps feed the homeless in South Dallas.

Well friends Beth has sure done it again, this is a fantastic end to the Touch of Grace series.

I fell in love with Mose and Abby and I am sure you will love them as well.

Beth has a way of drawing you into the story and you are living right in each moment of the story.

I enjoyed watching the challenges that Abby and Mose have play out on each page.

This is a story your going to get wrapped up in and enjoy to the very last page.

Don't miss any of the books in the Touch of Grace series they are all fantastic 5 star reads.

I have this book 5 stars and I highly recommend it.

I was given a copy of this book by the author for my honest review.

Womens & Lemons Your Time is Now By Janice Walker GIVEAWAY!

*HAVE YOU HEARD 50 IS THE NEW 30!! THIS BOOK WAS WRITTEN SPECIFICALLY FOR THE WOMAN IN HER 50s, THE QUINTASTIC WOMAN, BUT IT IS A MUST-READ BOOK FOR EVERY WOMAN WHO WANTS TO BEGIN A NEW ADVENTURE AND LIVE HER DREAM!

**This book is interactive and you will need to order the WOMENS & LEMONS ADVENTURE JOURNAL with the book. The journals can be found by searching Amazon's All Departments category and searching the following: "womens and lemons adventure journal."

 

 

Remember, you will definitely want to order the Adventure Journal, which comes in 5 exclusive W&L's styles for you to write your answers to the Action Steps. And for you diehard women who are more than ready and eager to begin your adventure, there is a Womens & Lemons Adventure Poster for you to take that extra special step to embrace your new and exciting Adventure!!  (use this name to find it on Amazon) was designed as a companion to the book for you to write your answers to the book's many Action Steps. So order the journal when you order the book!

YOUR TIME IS NOW!!
With this book, you will begin
YOUR ADVENTURE to live YOUR DREAM!!

This book was specifically written for YOU, the Quintastic Woman. You are the fantastic woman in your 50s (although it applies to women in their 40s as well) who has been a trailblazer on life's path up until now. Reading this book will lead you down a path to dig deep inside and bring to your consciousness those long-abandoned passions, ideas, and desires that you have voluntarily relinquished and sacrificed in order to be everything to everybody. You have lived for everyone else up until now! Your Time is Now!

Perhaps for the first time in the 21st Century, this book encourages the Quintastic Woman to give herself permission to feel hope about her future and the unlimited possibilities; she can finally appreciate who she is now, which should motivate her to pursue her dream.

As a Quintastic Woman, are you thinking: What's next for me? What am I going to do at this stage in my life? What do I want? If you want to enjoy life like you never thought possible at this mature stage, Womens & Lemons is for you. Reading this book will affirm you, show you how to appreciate you, and help you to realize how much potential you have at this Quintastic Stage to live your dream; IT'S NOT TOO LATE, YOU CAME TO THE RIGHT PLACE! You've made enough lemonade with the lemons that life has thrown at you. Now it's time for you to squeeze the juice out of life and those lemons and enjoy all that life has to offer you; you deserve that!!

Strap on your seatbelt because with Womens & Lemons you are in for the ride of your life!

 

Pick up your copy here

http://www.amazon.com/Womens-Lemons-Your-Time-Now/dp/0578128721/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1386216669&sr=8-1

 

 

An Amish Miracle By Mary Ellis, Ruth Reid, and Beth Wiseman

“Always His Providence” by Ruth Reid

Widow Rosa Hostetler has one month to pay her delinquent taxes before the county auctions her farm. She’s prepared to sell whatever is necessary to pay the lien, but she isn’t willing to request money from the community’s widow fund. She’s embarrassed and refuses to admit she needs help. Rosa depends on income from selling eggs, but when that income is threatened, only a miracle can help Rosa accept the kindness of a neighbor.

“Always in My Heart” by Mary Ellis

Hope Bowman believes God is punishing her for giving up her firstborn son when she was a teenager. She’s hidden this secret from her husband, who is thankful for their daughters but longs for a son. Hope prays desperately, but the son God sends her isn’t a new baby but the fifteen-year-old boy she gave up years ago.

“Always Beautiful” by Beth Wiseman

Becky Byler is eighteen and overweight. She is overwhelmed by the embarrassment she feels when comparing herself to other girls her age. Having lost all hope, she considers taking her own life. As she stands before rushing water, unable to swim, Becky begs God for a miracle. In just several months, Becky sees her prayers answered as food and temptation lose their hold over her. She’s finally pleased with how she looks, but does she like the person she has become? And has the man she has dreamed of been right beside her all along, loving her exactly as she is?

 

You must pick up your copy here

http://www.amazon.com/Amish-Miracle-Beth-Wiseman/dp/1401688705/ref=sr_1_1_title_1_pap?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1382836639&sr=1-1&keywords=an+amish+miracle

Mary Ellis grew up close to the eastern Ohio Amish community, Geauga County, where her parents often took her to farmer's markets and woodworking fairs. She loved their peaceful, agrarian lifestyle, their respect for the land, and their strong sense of Christian community.

She and her husband now live close to the largest population of Amish in the country--a four-county area in central Ohio. They often take weekend trips to purchase produce, meet Amish families, and enjoy a simpler way of life.

Mary enjoys reading, traveling, gardening, bicycling and swimming. But her favorite pasttime is snorkeling, which she seldom gets to do living in Ohio. She is a former middle school teacher and a former saleswoman for the world's best chocolate company. Now she writes full-time and wonders why her house is still dusty and her garden has so many weeds. She is currently working on the New Beginnings series. Book 1-Living in Harmony is set in Maine and released in August. Book 2-Love Comes to Paradise is set in Missouri and will release in Feb 2013. Book 3-A Little Bit of Paradise is set in Kentucky and will release in July of 2013.

 

Ruth Reid is a CBA and ECPA best-selling author of the Heaven on Earth series. She's a full-time pharmacist who lives in Florida with her husband and three children. When attending Ferris State University School of Pharmacy in Big Rapids, Michigan, she lived on the outskirts of an Amish community and had several occasions to visit the Amish farms. Her interest grew into love as she saw the beauty in living a simple life.

 

Award-winning, best-selling author Beth Wiseman is best known for her Amish novels, but her most recent novels, Need You Now and The House that Love Built, are contemporaries set in small Texas towns. Both have received glowing reviews. Beth's highly-anticipated novel, The Promise, is inspired by a true story. Twitter: @bethwiseman Facebook: Fans-of-Beth-Wiseman

 

WARNING: You can not put this book down once you crack it open and start reading it until the very last page!

I don't even know where to start with this review, you all already know Mary is on top of my favorite author list but what you don't know is Ruth Reid is just as a great as Mary, the stories in this book were way to short for me( I do not like when talented authors write novellas). But the great thing about this book is the characters carry over in to the next authors novella. All three stories were great. I fell in love with Hope in "Always in my Heart" and then Rosa and Adam in "Always His Provision" And you can't help but love Becky in Always Beautiful.

This best part of this book is that  in all three stories the characters intertwined.

I loved this book and I will of course keep a copy on my own book shelf forever. So that I can reread it over again each year.

I gave this book 5 stars and I gave all three novellas 5 stars.

I was given a copy of this book by one of the authors for my honest review.

Waiting for Belinda By June B. Belfie GIVEAWAY!

Belinda Glick, a lovely Amish girl from Ohio, decides to explore the other world during the time of her Rumspringa. In her desire to ‘just have fun’ she risks having her naiveté challenged by Dan, a young college student. Her parents are distraught over their daughter’s rebellious behavior and decide to send her to Lancaster County, PA, to stay with her Aunt Emma and Uncle Gabe until she learns to behave with more maturity. The Zook family takes her under their wing and she finds herself needed when one of the Zook sisters gives birth. While in Pennsylvania, Belinda discovers a new crowd, but will she fit in with the English ways? How firm are her moral values? Strong enough to keep her pure? A young man she befriends speaks to her of his love, but who will win over the heart of this challenging young woman?

 

Pick up your copy here

http://www.amazon.com/Waiting-Belinda-Zooks-Revisited-Volume/dp/1492715131/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1385939369&sr=1-1

 

June Belfie is addicted to writing. Rarely does a day go by without Ms. Belfie spending time on her exciting new career.

A music major in school, she later turned to oil painting and sold many at her Inn in the Poconos, where she and her husband Jim spent eleven exciting years creating a get-away haven for weary New Yorkers and Philadelphians, as well as travelers from all walks of life. Ms. Belfie recently published her memoir about inn-keeping called, "Inn Sane," available now as an ebook or in paper.

"All About Grace" is a novel about a young law student who finds herself in turmoil over a major decision, which turns her life upside down. This is a Christian novel based on major social issues.

Ms. Belfie also writes Amish and inspirational fiction. The three-book series called, "The Zook Sisters of Lancaster County" has been on Amazon's 100 best ebook list for several months.

June Belfie's latest book is a continuation of the heartfelt Amish stories of Lancaster County. It is called, "Waiting for Belinda," Book One of "The Zooks Revisited." Belinda lives in Ohio, but due to her wayward behavior, ends up living with a family member in Pennsylvania. She is torn between the Amish lifestyle and that of her English friends.

Five e-book novels are available now through Desert Breeze Publishers. "A Long Way to Go" is a popular Christian novel about the 1843 expedition across the Oregon Trail. In October of 2013 it will become available in paper also. In February of 2014, two other titles will be published in paper as well. "Moving On," and "A Special Blessing for Sara."

"The Landlord" and "The Inn Game" are light romantic reads, available in ebook form.

Raising five children (all productive members of society - so far!) she's now enjoying the fruits of her labor - in the form of eight grandkids!

"God's been so good to me. I want to share His impact on my life with others. Every book has a message - some obvious - some more subtle."

Well June has done it again penned what is one of the better Amish fiction books of this year. This is Book one of The Zook Family Revisited series.

If you have not read any of June's pervious books them you may want to start with this one.

You are sure to enjoy your trip to Lancaster Pennsylvania June writes in such a way that you think that you are right there in the pages of the book.

I recommend this book. I gave this book 4.5 stars.

I was given a copy of this book by the author for my honest review.

Katie's Discovery By June Belfie GIVEAWAY!

Katie Zook, the youngest of three sisters, does not seem like herself. What is causing the sweet, cheerful Amish beauty to be despondent? Is her weight loss intentional or the result of something more serious? Josiah Stoltz, a family friend, returns from the city where he's been earning money to buy his own farm. Katie finds herself enamored of the young farmer and hopes the feeling is mutual. Everything changes when a friend from his past places Josiah in danger. Katie, as well as her Amish community, find themselves in the midst of his problems. Will Josiah be shunned for his actions? Will it ruin Katie's hopes for a relationship with him?

 

Pick up your copy here

http://www.amazon.com/Katies-Discovery-Sisters-Lancaster-County/dp/148201694X/ref=sr_1_1_bnp_1_pap?ie=UTF8&qid=1385739715&sr=8-1&keywords=Katies+Discovery

 

 

June Belfie is addicted to writing. Rarely does a day go by without Ms. Belfie spending time on her exciting new career.

A music major in school, she later turned to oil painting and sold many at her Inn in the Poconos, where she and her husband Jim spent eleven exciting years creating a get-away haven for weary New Yorkers and Philadelphians, as well as travelers from all walks of life. Ms. Belfie recently published her memoir about inn-keeping called, "Inn Sane," available now as an ebook or in paper.

"All About Grace" is a novel about a young law student who finds herself in turmoil over a major decision, which turns her life upside down. This is a Christian novel based on major social issues.

Ms. Belfie also writes Amish and inspirational fiction. The three-book series called, "The Zook Sisters of Lancaster County" has been on Amazon's 100 best ebook list for several months.

June Belfie's latest book is a continuation of the heartfelt Amish stories of Lancaster County. It is called, "Waiting for Belinda," Book One of "The Zooks Revisited." Belinda lives in Ohio, but due to her wayward behavior, ends up living with a family member in Pennsylvania. She is torn between the Amish lifestyle and that of her English friends.

Five e-book novels are available now through Desert Breeze Publishers. "A Long Way to Go" is a popular Christian novel about the 1843 expedition across the Oregon Trail. In October of 2013 it will become available in paper also. In February of 2014, two other titles will be published in paper as well. "Moving On," and "A Special Blessing for Sara."

"The Landlord" and "The Inn Game" are light romantic reads, available in ebook form.

Raising five children (all productive members of society - so far!) she's now enjoying the fruits of her labor - in the form of eight grandkids!

"God's been so good to me. I want to share His impact on my life with others. Every book has a message - some obvious - some more subtle."

June writes as if she herself is Amish. Her characters are so real and easy to relate to. This is one of the Amish fiction books that you just don't want to put down.

You will want to read this Series in order so that you can keep up with who everyone is. I recommend the whole series.

June knows her Amish history, it is not a bunch of unrealistic writing like a whole lot of the Amish fiction writers these days.

The Zook Sisters of Lancaster County is not a series to be missed.

I gave this book 5 stars. I recommend this book as well as the whole series.

I was given a copy of this book by the author for my honest review.

A Marriage in Middlebury By Anita Higman

Charlotte Rose Hill has been serving up country delicacies, uniquely blended teas, and matchmaking advice for her quirky but beloved customers for more than 10 years. But for her, marriage seems like an elusive butterfly, always out of reach. At 18, Charlotte fell in love with a young man, Sam Wilder, but his family convinced her to walk away from their relationship. She did, and then became engaged to another man, who later died before they were married. Now, more than a decade later, Charlotte finds that she still has feelings for her first love. Initially thrilled to learn that Sam has come home to Middlebury, Texas, Charlotte is devastated to learn that he’s brought someone with him: his fiancée. But all is not lost when the townsfolk decide to get involved. Will Charlotte and Sam find their way back to each other?

 

Pick up your copy here

http://www.amazon.com/Marriage-Middlebury-Anita-Higman/dp/1426733879/ref=sr_1_1_title_1_pap?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1382589105&sr=1-1&keywords=a+marriage+in+middlebury

 

Award-winning author, Anita Higman, has twenty-five books published (several coauthored) for adults and children, and she has been honored as a Barnes & Noble Author of the Month for Houston. Anita has a BA degree, combining communication, psychology, and art. Her favorite things include exotic teas, movies, and all things Jane Austen. To contact Anita or enter her monthly contest for a free signed book please visit her website at www.anitahigman.com.

 

Oh How I love Anita's writing, I could not wait to get my hands on this book. It was everything I expected and then some.

I fell in love with Charlotte, she is the best friend we all wish we had. This book is full of great characters you are sure to fall in love with them all.

This is a book that I can see on the big screen. Once I opened this book I could not put it down.

Does true love always prevail? You have to pick up a copy of this 5 star book to see if it all turns out as it should.

I pray that this is a series. I want to hear more about the characters in this book.

I highly recommend this book. 5 stars two times in my opinion.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

Under a Blackberry Moon By Serena Miller GIVEAWAY!

Just a few days after she gives birth alone in the Northwoods, a recently widowed young Chippewa woman stumbles into a nearby lumber camp in search of refuge and sustenance. Come summer, the camp owner sends Skypilot, his most trusted friend, to accompany Moon Song and her baby on the long and treacherous journey back to her people. But when tragedy strikes off the shore of Michigan's Upper Peninsula wilderness, Moon Song and Skypilot must depend on each other for survival. With every step they take into the forbidding woods, they are drawn closer together, until the tough questions must be asked. Will she leave her culture to enter his? Will he leave his world to enter hers? Or will they walk away from a love that seems too complicated to last?

With evocative descriptions of a breathtaking landscape, Under a Blackberry Moon will sweep readers into a wild realm where beauty masks danger and only the truly courageous survive, even as the sweet love story along the way tightly grips their hearts.

 

Pick up your copy here

http://www.amazon.com/Under-Blackberry-Moon-A-Novel/dp/0800721187/ref=tmm_pap_title_0

This book is a sequel to Katie Calloway, which by the way I did not read. It reads very well as a stand alone.

A refreshing book about different people and how you can value others who are different from you.

I really enjoyed the surprise at the end. You will enjoy this read as well I am sure.

A very well told story.

I gave this book 4.5 stars and recommend it.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

A Christmas at Harmony Hill By Ann Gabhart GIVEAWAY!

It is 1864 and the nation is still torn apart by civil war when Heather Worth discovers she is with child. She has been working as a laundress with her husband's army unit, but when the army gets orders to march south to Tennessee, Gideon insists Heather go home to have their child under safer conditions. Heather agrees, but returns home to another kind of devastation--deaths in the family and a father who refuses to forgive her for marrying a Yankee. With nowhere else to turn, Heather seeks refuge at the Shaker village of Harmony Hill, where her great aunt Sophrena lives. There, after many peaceful years at Harmony Hill, Sophrena is having doubts about her Shaker path. Both women are in need of love and forgiveness--whether given or received. With Christmas coming, can the miracle of new life fill their hearts with unexpected joy?

Ann H. Gabhart's many fans will be thrilled to return to Harmony Hill at Christmastime for this stirring story of healing and hope.

 

Pick up your copy here

http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Harmony-Hill-Shaker-Story/dp/0800719824/ref=sr_1_1_bnp_1_har?ie=UTF8&qid=1385300173&sr=8-1&keywords=christmas+at+harmony+hill

Ann H. Gabhart caught the writing bug at the age of ten and has been writing ever since. She's published over twenty-five books for both adults and young adults. Scent of Lilacs, her first inspirational novel, was chosen as a Top Ten Books in Christian Fiction by Booklist magazine. Her first Shaker book, The Outsider, was a finalist for ECPA Christian Fiction Book of the Year and was a Top Pick by Romantic Times Book Review Magazine.

Ann lives on a farm in Kentucky not far from where she was born. She and her husband have three children and nine grandchildren. Ann loves hiking on her farm with her grandkids and her dog, Oscar. Her website is www.annhgabhart.com.

If you like me are a fan of Ann's Shaker Stories then you are going to love this one.

I was so excited to go back to Harmony Hill.

Faith, Love and Hope are sprinkled though out this book. You don't want to miss this Christmas Novella.

If you have not yet read one of Ann's Shaker books then this is the very one to start with. This is a must read this Christmas season.

I gave this book 5 stars and I highly recommend it.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

A Simple Christmas Wish By Melody Carlson GIVEAWAY!

Rachel Milligan is caring for her seven-year-old niece, Holly, at her home in Chicago when she receives devastating news: Holly's parents have been killed in a plane crash. Because Rachel is Holly's only known relative, she assumes that she will be her beloved niece's guardian. However, custody is awarded to Lydia, a distant aunt who happens to be Amish. Just a week before Christmas, Rachel takes Holly to the Amish community in the hopes of persuading Aunt Lydia to relinquish custody. Instead, Lydia sets out to teach Holly to live according to the Amish way. As family secrets emerge and old wounds are healed, Rachel realizes that she will do whatever it takes to ensure that Holly has the loving family she needs.

Combining an Amish family saga with the anticipation of Christmas cheer and the promise of a budding romance, this newest Christmas story from beloved author Melody Carlson is sure to please.

 

Pick up your copy here

http://www.amazon.com/Simple-Christmas-Wish-Melody-Carlson/dp/0800719654/ref=sr_1_1_bnp_1_har?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1385084961&sr=1-1&keywords=a+simple+christmas+wish

Melody Carlson has written around 200 books for teens, women and children. That's a lot of books, but mostly she considers herself a "storyteller." Her books range from serious issues like schizophrenia (Finding Alice) to lighter topics like house-flipping (A Mile in My Flip-Flops) but most of the inspiration behind her fiction comes right out of real life. Her young adult novels (Diary of a Teenage Girl, TrueColors etc.) appeal to teenage girls around the world. Her annual Christmas novellas become more popular each year. She's won a number of awards (including the Rita and Gold Medallion) and some of her books have been optioned for film/TV. Carlson has two grown sons and makes her home in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and yellow Lab dog. To find out more about Melody Carlson, visit her website at http://www.melodycarlson.com

I have read all of Melody's Christmas books so I could not wait for this one.

In my opinion this is by far the best, not sure if it is because Amish books are my favorite or if it has the best ending. I could not put this book down I loved little Holly to death and her Aunt Rachel was the greatest.

You do not want to miss this fantastic Christmas book.

I gave this book 5 stars and I highly recommend this book.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

Stones for Bread By Christa Parrish GIVEAWAY!

A solitary artisan. A legacy of bread-baking. And one secret that could collapse her entire identity.

Liesl McNamara’s life can be described in one word: bread. From her earliest memory, her mother and grandmother passed down the mystery of baking and the importance of this deceptively simple food. And now, as the owner of Wild Rise bake house, Liesl spends every day up to her elbows in dough, nourishing and perfecting her craft.

But the simple life she has cultivated is becoming quite complicated. Her head baker brings his troubled grandson into the bakeshop as an apprentice. Her waitress submits Liesl’s recipes to a popular cable cooking show. And the man who delivers her flour—a single father with strange culinary habits—seems determined to win Liesl’s affection.

When Wild Rise is featured on television, her quiet existence appears a thing of the past. And then a phone call from a woman claiming to be her half-sister forces Liesl to confront long-hidden secrets in her family’s past. With her precious heritage crumbling around her, the baker must make a choice: allow herself to be buried in detachment and remorse, or take a leap of faith into a new life.

Filled with both spiritual and literal nourishment, Stones for Bread provides a feast for the senses from award-winning author Christa Parrish.

 

Pick up you copy here

http://www.amazon.com/Stones-Bread-Christa-Parrish/dp/1401689019/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1384876559&sr=1-1

This was the first book that I have ever read by Christa, so I did not know what to expect.

I had a very hard time getting into this book. I had a very hard time connecting to the characters in the story especially the main character.

I did however finally get into the story somewhere around the middle of the book. I also really enjoyed all of the recipes and I can't wait to get in the kitchen and try some of them out.

I have to say that I gave this book 3.5 stars.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

Green Fever By Wanda Brunstetter GIVEAWAY!

Welcome to Holmes County, Ohio, where twins Mattie and Mark Miller get a case of Green Fever. When their out-of-control jealousy begins to cause big trouble at every turn, will these energetic nine-year-olds learn the value of contentment before it’s too late? You’ll fall in love with the fourth release in the Double Trouble series from bestselling author, Wanda E. Brunstetter.

Double Trouble Series:
Book 1 - What a Pair!
Book 2 - Bumpy Ride Ahead
Book 3 - Bubble Troubles
Book 4 - Green Fever

 

Pick up your copy here

http://www.amazon.com/Green-Fever-Wanda-E-Brunstetter/dp/162416286X/ref=sr_1_1_bnp_1_pap?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1384999768&sr=1-1&keywords=green+fever

 

 

Wanda Brunstetter is an award-winning romance novelist who has led millions of readers to lose their heart in the Amish life. She is the author of almost 60 books with more than 6 million copies sold. Many of her books have landed on the top bestseller lists, including the New York Times, USA Today, Publisher's Weekly, CBA, ECPA, and CBD. Wanda is considered one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre, and her work has been covered by national publications, including Time Magazine and USA Today.

Wanda's fascination with the Amish culture developed when she met her husband, Richard, who grew up in a Mennonite church, and whose family has a Pennsylvania Dutch heritage. Meeting her new Mennonite sister-in-laws caused Wanda to yearn for the simpler life. In their travels, she and her husband have become close friends with many Amish people across America. Wanda's desire to explore their culture increased when she discovered that her great-great grandparents were part of the Anabaptist faith.

All of Wanda's novels are based on personal research intended to accurately portray the Amish way of life. Many of her books are well-read and trusted by the Amish, who credit her for giving readers a deeper understanding of the people and their customs.

Wanda's primary attraction to the Amish is their desire to live a devout Christian life that strives to honor God, work hard, and maintain close family ties. Whenever she visits her Amish friends, Wanda finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and close family ties, which is in stark contrast to the chaos and busyness that plagues so many modern "Englishers." Time and time again, Wanda loses her heart in the Amish life, and she hopes her readers will, too. For more information, visit: www.WandaBrunstetter.com

 

Green Fever is book number four in the Double Trouble series.

These books are cute reads for the young and the old alike.

The stories are set in Holmes County Ohio and are about  Mattie and Mark two sweet Amish kids.

This book would make a wonderful Christmas gift for the little ones in your life.

I highly recommend this book as well as the other three in this series.

This is a 5 star book.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review

Aloha Rose By Lisa Carter GIVEAWAY!

When Laney Carrigan sets out to find her birth family, her only clue is the Hawaiian quilt—a red rose snowflake appliquéd on a white background—in which she was found wrapped as an infant. Centering her search on the Big Island and battling fears of rejection, Laney begins a painstaking journey toward her true heritage. Kai Barnes, however, is determined to protect the people he’s come to regard as family. He thinks Laney is nothing more than a gold digger and blocks every move she makes toward her Hawaiian family. As their conflict escalates, it puts at risk the one thing that Kai and Laney both want most—a family.

 

Pick up your copy here

http://www.amazon.com/Aloha-Rose-Quilts-Lisa-Carter/dp/1426752733/ref=sr_1_1_bnp_1_pap?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1384813633&sr=1-1&keywords=aloha+rose

Lisa Carter was always the child who made up epic tales involving prairie schooners or interplanetary voyages for the neighborhood kids to re-enact during summer vacation. Now as a speaker, vocalist, teacher and writer, Lisa shares her own journey of faith regarding God's sufficiency for every need.

As a Southern romantic suspense writer--Sweet Tea with a Slice of Murder--she has definite opinions on serious issues like barbeque, ACC basketball and the whole Pepsi vs. Coke controversy. Carolina Reckoning, her debut novel, released August 2013.

She and her husband have two daughters and make their home in North Carolina. When she isn't writing, Lisa enjoys traveling to romantic locales such as the Big Island, Hawaii--the setting for her next novel, Aloha Rose, releasing November 2013. She also enjoys quilting and researching her next exotic adventure.

If you have not read any of the Quilts of Love series books yet this may be the one you want to start with.

 Author Lisa Carter's books have characters that will capture your attention and grab a hold of your heart and not let go until long after you have read the last page.

I really enjoyed this book, it is very refreshing. This is a book to keep on your shelf and reread and a book that will make a great gift for that book lover in your life.

I was captured from page one and I recommend this book.

I gave this book 4 stars.

I was given a copy of the book by Wynn-Wynn Media for my honest review.

Related by Chance, Family by Choice By Deb DeArmond Giveaway!

The caricatures are everywhere, the jokes are inexhaustible, and the stereotypes fill the screens. From Marie Barone (Everyone Loves Raymond) to Viola Fields (Monster-in-Law) to Internet sites and social media pages like ihatemyinlaws.com and a Facebook page for ihatemymotherinlaw there is no shortage of examples of the caustic relationships that can develop between the two women in a man’s life.

Deb DeArmond and her three daughters-in-law have conducted their own exhaustive research into the status of the women-in-law relationship. Their research, which incorporated online surveys, interviews, and discussions, included asking about the faith factor in the relationships they studied. Of the respondents, nearly 90 percent claimed they were Christians, and 79 percent said their faith was foundational and guided their actions and decisions. As discouraging as it may be, the numbers of those they surveyed who reported that their women-in-law relationships were “bad” were nearly identical to those in a survey conducted by a popular secular website that recorded no statistics on faith.

Beyond the statistics and their analysis, Deb brings to this book more than thirty years working with adults to improve communications and deal constructively with conflict. Aside from her research and her professional expertise, perhaps the most important asset Deb brings to this work is her own relationship with her three daughters-in-law that is so obviously and unusually positive that she—and they—are often asked to explain the secret of the relationships they share.

This practical and unapologetically scriptural book covers issues of personal perceptions, strained communication, the roles of sons and fathers in the relationship’s success, how to begin these relationships on the right foot, and the necessity of trust and love. Deb’s one motivating objective is to help womenin- law move from women who are simply related to strong and confident members of a truly spiritual family.

Pick up your copy here

http://www.amazon.com/Related-Chance-Family-Mother--Daughter-/dp/0825443253/ref=sr_1_1_bnp_1_pap?ie=UTF8&qid=1384735230&sr=8-1&keywords=related+by+chance+family+by+choice

 

Kregel Publications released Deb's first book, entitled Related by Chance, Family by Choice, in November of this year. It is the story of two women who love the same man: mothers and the girls who marry their sons. Mother-in-law / daughter-in-law relationships can be good. We just have to understand our roles and set our hearts on doing things God's way. The book provides practical tools and guidelines to make these relationships as good and God honoring as they can possibly be.

One of Deb's passions is not only her own family, but the relationships within families as well. From marriage to parenting to in-laws and more, Deb's years in helping others develop communication and conflict resolution skills support the message God has tasked her with sharing both in print and when speaking.

Deb is wife to her high school sweetheart, Ron, who showed her the path to become a Christ follower 38 years ago. Mom to three incredible sons. Gigi to three perfect grandboys. But Jesus is her favorite, and the guys have learned to live with it. She is a transplanted Californian who has been a proud Texan for 9 years and she loves the Lone Star state! Deb and her husband, Ron, live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

Deb is an entrepreneur, and has owned her own leadership training and executive coaching practice for 15 years. She is an experienced speaker and most recently, an author. She is a featured writer for several online magazines and print articles with work appearing in WHOA Magazine and Dallas Family Magazine.

Optimistically mid-life, Deb is excited about the next stage of life and what God has for her now. She longs to see experienced women find their passion and place in the body of Christ, show up and finish strong. Deb is co-founder of My Purpose Now an online community for Christian women 50+ where the tag line is "We may be done, but we're not finished!"

Deb would love to connect with you and speak for your women's group or retreat. You can learn more about Deb, her book, and her speaking schedule by contacting her at www.debdearmond.com

I have not been blessed with a mother-in-law in many years but some day the Lord will send me his best mother-in-law for me and I will be so happy that I read this book.

It is a very informative read. I recommend this book to every mother of a grown son and every women that is planning on marrying a man with a wonderful mom.

I love the godly insight in this book, wonderful sound advice.

I gave this book 4 stars and I recommend this book.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

Plain Peace By Beth Wiseman

Anna loves the grandfather who raised her, but his strict adherence to the Ordnung is scaring away any boy who might be interested in her—except newcomer Jacob.

In normal circumstances Anna Byler would have her choice of any of the young men in her Amish community. But because of the strict rules enforced by her grandfather, the bishop, the available suitors are afraid to court her. Then handsome Jacob Hostetler moves to Paradise and decides Anna is worth the challenge.

Anna sees that the bishop’s legalism is dividing the community and risking the lives of its members—but her grandfather doesn’t. When she is forced to deception in order to pursue her dream of marriage and family with Jacob, Anna feels her own faith slipping. If only she could get her grandmother to help her stand up to the bishop. But Mammi is keeping secrets of her own.

Anna wants to honor her grandparents, the two most important people in her life, but her heart is  divided by the rules that guide their little Amish community and the growing love she has for Jacob. How can she be true to both?

 

Pick up your copy here...

http://www.amazon.com/Plain-Peace-Daughters-Promise-Novel/dp/1401685943/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1384031276&sr=1-1

Beth Wiseman is the best-selling author of the Daughters of the Promise series and the Land of Canaan series. Her books have held spots on the ECPA (Evangelical Christian Publishers Association) Bestseller List and the CBA (Christian Book Association) Bestseller List. She was a recipient of the prestigious Carol Award in 2011 and 2013, three-time winner of the Inspirational Readers Choice Award, INSPY Award winner, and recipient of the coveted HOLT Medallion. Her first book in the Land of Canaan series--Seek Me With All Your Heart--was selected as the 2011 Women of Faith Book of the Year. Beth is contracted with HarperCollins Christian Publishing into the year 2015, and she has completed twelve novels and seven novellas to date.

As a former newspaper reporter, Beth was honored by her peers with eleven journalism awards, including first place news writing for The Texas Press Association. She has been a humor columnist for The 1960 Sun in Houston and published articles in various publications. However, writing novels is where her heart is. She left her job as a journalist in 2008 to write novels fulltime.

Beth has a deep affection for the Amish and their simpler way of life, and while she plans to continue writing Amish love stories, she is also branching out into other areas. Her first non-Amish, contemporary--Need You Now--released in April 2012 and landed on the CBA Bestseller List. She enjoyed writing the story based in a town near where she lives, and she chose another small Texas town for her latest non-Amish contemporary--The House that Love Built--which is based in Smithville, the same quaint town where movies such as Hope Floats and Tree of Life were filmed.

In a daring new novel, Beth jumps way outside the box. The story she is currently working on will take readers far away from Amish Country and small Texas towns to a dangerous place on the other side of the world. Inspired by a true story, Beth believes this is the book she's been working toward for a long time. Expect more information on this exciting novel soon!

Beth and her husband are empty nesters enjoying the country life in Texas with two dogs, two cats, four goats, two potbellied pigs, and a dozen chickens. When she's not writing, she loves to travel, paint, and enjoy time with friends and family. You can find Beth at Fans of Beth Wiseman on Facebook where she interacts with readers or visit bethwiseman.com to learn more about Beth and her books.

Oh the Simple life...

What a great story of faith. This was a good Amish story with great characters. You can really get into the story and forget all about the world around you. If you have not read the Daughters of Promise series yet, you are missing out.

Beth write about real life her books are about situations that people endure in real life.

This was a 4 star book and I recommend it.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.