When Mountains Move by Julie Cantrell, Review & GIVEAWAY of 6, YES, 6 copies of this book!

Thanks to Wynn-Wynn Media, I have 6 copies to give away!


5.0 out of 5 stars Stirring Sequel to Into The Free!

Description

It is the spring of 1943. With a wedding and a cross-country move, Millie’s world is about to change forever.

If only her past could change with it.

Soon after the break of day, Bump will become Millie’s husband. And then, if all goes as planned, they will leave the rain-soaked fields of Mississippi and head for the wilds of the Colorado Rockies. As Millie tries to forget a dark secret, she hasn’t yet realized how drastically those past experiences will impact the coming days.

For most of Millie’s life, being free felt about as unlikely as the mountains moving. But she’s about to discover that sometimes in life, we are given second chances, and that the only thing bigger than her past … is her future.

Purchase at your local bookstore or these online locations:

http://www.deepershopping.com Paperback $9.74
http://www.amazon.com Paperback $11.48
http://www.barnesandnoble.com Paperback $11.48
http://www.christianbook.com Paperback $11.49

Biography

A speech language pathologist and literacy advocate, New York Times best-selling author Julie Cantrell was most recently editor-in-chief of the Southern Literary Review. She is author of the best-selling book Into the Free and two children’s books. Julie and her family live in Mississippi where they operate Valley House Farm.

My Review ~

Millie discovers hope in the opportunity to move forward with her life, far from atrocities of her past. Sadly, Millie's past is destined to become a major component of her future. Her choice between the two men she loves eventually creates questions in her mind regarding whether she has chosen the best course for her future. Opportunity awaits her and her new husband, Bump, as they set out to brave new worlds in the mountains of Colorado, far from the heartache in Mississippi. The challenges they face appear insurmountable when they realize that their "new" homestead is uninhabitable. Using every moment of daylight Millie and Bump attempt what appears to be the impossible, but their perseverance rewards them with an inhabitable farmstead and outbuildings with 5,000 acres of land to raise horses and beef cattle.

Julie Cantrell has received numerous awards for her debut novel, "Into The Free," which has been optioned by a production studio with hopes of bringing her story to the big screen! Julie's sequel to "Into The Free" surpassed my expectations! Her attention to detail is outstanding, and her characters are so well illustrated that I felt myself living Millie's life throughout the story! Vivid portrayals of the landscape throughout Millie and Bump's journey to the Rocky Mountains are eloquent, from the yellow flowers Millie so loves to the mountains that greet them. The hardships and disillusions they face are realistic and believable. As with Julie's debut novel, I feel that "When Mountains Move" is an exceptional work of artistic creativity. I highly recommend this inspiring book!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author and Wynn-Wynn Media in exchange for my honest review. All expressed opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

CONTEST GIVEAWAY GUIDELINES:

Please comment about my review, leaving me feedback regarding your thoughts, rather than just stating that you want to win this book. Leave your email address using [at] and [dot] to protect your email address, and please share my blog review with your friends in order to qualify for this contest. 

Author, Willard "Will" Carpenter's Perspectives on Writing!

Recently I had the pleasure of spending time visiting with Willard "Will" Carpenter and his lovely family. We discussed Will's philosophy regarding his writing. Author of two novels, "Prodigal: Part 1 Secrets of the Son (Volume 1)" and "Unveiling: Part 2 Secrets of the Son (Volume 2)," Will's initial interest in writing surfaced 40 years ago. He is currently working on three books, one a collection of poetry that his brother will be illustrating, secondly his contribution to Murray Pura's Cry of Freedom Series, Kentucky Rain, which is based on his grandfather's time in the Civil War in Richmond, VA. Mr. Carpenter's third work in progress is a stand-alone novel, but will share some of the characters from "Unveiling." Will's three novels are considered Amish inspirational works. "Samuel Hershberger," a key character in his books is based on someone in Will's life. He did not reveal the identity of that "character" to me.

Will states that Shelley Shepard Gray has been influential in his writing career. His first interest is fiction. Will is considered an Indie (independent) author with a focus in presenting valid, detailed, inspirational, thoroughly researched material. Will is a literary author whose goals are to present factual novels portraying realistic and graphic events and romantic relationships. Will places himself into the setting where his novel takes place, lending a true presentation of the interactions between his characters. His interest in the Amish stems from his geographical closeness to the Amish in the Lancaster, PA area, and the friendships he has developed. 

Three generations of Carpenters span 100 years, Will's grandfather who was age 60 when his father was born and Will's father who was age 40 when Will was born. Will and Michele have three grown children, two sons and one daughter. He is a former U.S. Army medic and retired registered nurse who now spends his days writing full time. His home is Gilbertsville, PA, and he and his wife own and operate Johnny's Hoagies where Will enjoys passing out "lollies" to the youngsters.

Thank you, Willard and family, for sharing your time and hospitality with me, and Will, for sharing your thoughts regarding your writing. 

I will be featuring Will's books in the future, so please join me as I share my reviews of his books with you.

You can get in touch with Willard "Will" Carpenter on Facebook or his website.

https://www.facebook.com/Will1953?fref=ts 

http://www.authorwillardcarpenter.com

By Appointment Only (Sal's Place) by Marianne Evans!

5.0 out of 5 stars
 Finding Hope!

Book Description

Political dynamo Matt Bellinger understands he has an unyielding responsibility to work hard for the betterment of his community and the world around him. Life, he believes, should be built strictly on effort and tangibles, not an elusive faith. But that belief is challenged when
a bill to spearhead volunteerism leads him to canvassing efforts at Detroit's legendary diner, Sal's Place, and a meeting with Heather Cavanaugh. His polar opposite, the street-smart beauty challenges his heart and perceptions. She's the head stylist at Optiva, a trendy, upscale hair salon in downtown Detroit, as well as a tireless volunteer giving back to the city she loves in honor of the God she serves.

Love blooms, gradually shifting Matt's perceptions. But when a life-threatening illness in his family challenges that fledgling faith, will he be able to hold fast to his newfound beliefs? Will he discover that faith makes all things possible and love makes all things beautiful?




Available for purchase at:
http://www.amazon.com $3.99 Kindle
http://www.barnesandnoble.com $3.99 Nook
http://www.christianbook.com $3.19 ebook
http://pelicanbookgroup.com $3.99
http://www.booksamillion.com $2.74

Biography

Marianne Evans is a multi-award-winning author of Christian romance and fiction. Her hope is to spread the faith-affirming message of God's love through the stories He prompts her to create. Readers laud her work as: 'Riveting.' 'Realistic and true to heart.' 'Compelling.'

Evans's novel, Hearts Communion, earned Christian Small Publisher Book of the Year honors in the Romance category as well as best inspirational romance by Ancient City Romance Authors, a chapter of the Romance Writers of America. Her novella Finding Home earned the prestigious Selah Award for excellence in Christian fiction. Evans has also earned acclaim in such RWA contests as The Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence where she has been a finalist twice, and the Colorado Romance Writers Award of Excellence contest.

A lifelong resident of Michigan, Evans is active in a number of a number of Romance Writers of America chapters, most notably the Greater Detroit Chapter where she served two terms as President. She's also active in American Christian Fiction Writers and the Michigan Literary Network.

Connect with Marianne:
Website: www.marianneevans.com
Blog: www.marianneevans.blogspot.com
Facebook Reader Page: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Marianne-Evans/308711716744
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/Marmo212

My Review ~

Heather Cavanaugh, hairdresser and dedicated volunteer to the needy of inner city Detroit, comes face to face with Matt Bellinger, an aspiring politician. Detroit's legendary diner, Sal's Place is the scene of Heather's challenge to ascertain if Matt is worthy of his claims to reach out to those in need, and truly make a difference. Coming from vastly different lifestyles the two face life-changing obstacles, and Matt faces personal battles more complex than any he has encountered in his political life.

Marianne Evans has once again proven that she has depth of insight into the hearts and souls of people that few can exemplify with such passion. Her characters are personified with an intensity that the reader becomes a part of the character. Reading this book challenged me spiritually to the point that my faith has become fortified. Marianne's use of biblical references is brilliant and spiritually challenging. By Appointment Only is impressive! 

Disclaimer: I received a PDF copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

A Prayer for the Devil by Dale Allan!


5.0 out of 5 stars Powerful Thriller!

Book Description

Twin brothers Luke and Aaron Miller could not lead more different lives. Aaron, a rising political star who manages the campaign of a man many believe will be the nation’s next president, embraced his father’s Jewish heritage. Luke, on the other hand, honored his mother’s faith and entered the Catholic priesthood. When Aaron and the candidate he supports are killed in a bombing at a presidential stump speech, the Miller family’s core is destroyed. Fear of a terrorist threat grips the nation, but the FBI and the press seem more focused on the death of a presidential candidate than on the other innocent victims like Aaron. Suddenly, Luke begins to feel the lure of a vengeance that is stronger than the bond of faith.

As he falls deeper into the abyss of political intrigue that surrounded his brother’s mysterious professional life, Luke is tempted to break his promise to God and reassess his own sense of right and wrong. What sort of priest carries a concealed weapon? How can he judge others when he himself has strayed so far from his own flock?

Luke’s comfortable life in Boston collides with the faraway world of the Middle East as he sets out on a journey to unravel the truth behind Aaron’s murder. Will he take an eye for an eye?

In this murder mystery wrapped in a thoughtful meditation on the intersection of faith and justice, Luke’s journey through his own darkness propels him to a shocking ending that will leave readers breathless.


Available at your local bookstore or the websites listed below:
http://www.amazon.com Hard Cover $17.73, Kindle $3.82
http://www.barnesandnoble.com Hard Cover $17.73, Nook $4.99
http://www.booksamillion.com Hard Cover $17.72, Ebook $3.39

Biography

A graduate of Fordham University, Dale has held several senior positions in Fortune 250 companies and has traveled the world. A black belt in martial arts, avid fly-fisherman, political junkie and devout Christian, the creative storylines of his novels reflect the many aspects of his diversified life.

When Dale Allan was just twelve years old, his father was murdered while away on an extended business trip. A week before his death, Dale had struggled to write a letter updating him on the family’s activities. When his father was buried with the handwritten note in his pocket, Dale fully understood the power of writing.

My Review ~

Twin brothers chose dramatically different lifestyles, placing a wedge in their relationship. Brought up in their father's Jewish tradition, Aaron Miller is a successful, wealthy lawyer and an aspiring politician, while Luke has turned from his father's teachings to become a Roman Catholic priest. Additionally, Aaron lives an affluent lifestyle while Luke lives a life of humility and simplicity, offering assistance to the homeless community. In the Boston Commons during a political event a bombing kills Aaron, a presidential candidate, and several others. Father Luke is angry that a more intense police and FBI investigation into the Boston Bombing isn't taking place, and in his grief and anguish he decides to do some investigating on his own. Frustrated by anger over his brother's death, and guilt regarding his estrangement from his brother for the past year, Father Luke takes a leave of absence from his Parish and moves into his brother's mansion in order to offer comfort and protection for his brother's family as he begins his quest for answers regarding who killed his brother.

Numerous social and political issues are broached in this highly suspenseful story, including religious differences, politics, terrorism, cultural differences and practices, homelessness, suspicion regarding Muslim involvement in the bombing, and Father Luke's personal battle with anger and his relationship with God. Dale Allan has presented a fast-paced drama filled with intrigue, suspense, and terrorism. The cast of characters in A Prayer for the Devil are deep and skillfully portrayed and represent a multiplicity of distinctions. I was unable to put this book down! The rapidly moving plot kept me intrigued throughout the entire book. The descriptive elements and nonstop action in this book make this a truly impressive thriller!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through the For Readers Only program at The Book Club Network, for the purpose of my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review. Thank you Fred St Laurent at TBCN and Dale Allan for supplying me with this book!

Awakened Love (The Amish of Webster County, #3) by Laura V. Hilton

Excellent Amish Fiction!  5 stars!

Book Description

Publication Date: September 2, 2013 | Series: Amish of Webster County (Book 3)

A Bashful Baker
Twenty–one–year–old Katie Detweiler loves to bake. When she's hired at a local bed–and–breakfast to do just that, she's excited, especially because the owner promises the shy young woman that she won't have to leave the kitchen. But when her boss's husband requires round–the–clock care, Katie is forced to overcome her shyness and wait on customers, as well. Before long, a "customer" reveals himself to be a private investigator who informs Katie that she was adopted, and that her biological sister needs a bone marrow transplant.

A Man on the Run
Twenty–two–year–old Abram Hilty has fled the drama of Shipshewana, Indiana, for Seymour, Missouri, where he's staying with his cousin Micah Graber. His plan is to hide, from a girl he no longer cares about—and also from a cold–blooded killer. Uncomfortable sharing his past and afraid of the consequences, he buries his troubles deep inside. When he meets Katie Detweiler, he is immediately attracted, but his pursuit of her is complicated by the problems of his past.

An Adventure Unfolds
As Katie wrestles with questions of identity, she also struggles to navigate her blossoming romance with Abram, in the face of opposition from a jealous friend. As their relationship becomes more serious, Abram can no longer conceal the truth about his past. But parts of that past rear their heads, barring the way for a marriage between them—at least for now. Through dangers and near–death experiences, Katie and Abram must find their way back to each other. But only the power of forgiveness can bring them together for good.

Preorder here:
http://www.deepershopping.com  $8.44

About the Author

Laura Hilton graduated with a business degree from Ozarka Technical College in Melbourne, Arkansas. A member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, she is a professional book reviewer for the Christian market, with more than a thousand reviews published on the Web. Surrendered Love follows Healing Love in Laura's latest trilogy from Whitaker House. Her first series with Whitaker was The Amish of Seymour, comprising Patchwork Dreams, A Harvest of Hearts, and Promised to Another. Laura and her husband, Steve, have five children, whom Laura homeschools. The family makes their home in Arkansas. To learn more about Laura, read her reviews, and find out about her upcoming releases, readers may visit her blog at http://lighthouse–academy.blogspot.com/.

My Review ~

Katie Detweiler is a shy young Amish woman who enjoys baking for a local bed & breakfast. The solace in the kitchen fulfills her desire to be out of the mainstream. Due to unforeseen circumstances she is needed to work in the dining room which is out of her comfort zone. A frequent visitor to the dining room at the B & B is a private investigator who reveals shocking family information about Katie. His revelation shakes Katie to the core, and leads her to troubling discoveries. Katie has always been labeled as having a "curse," and these discoveries only confirm her fears.

Abram Hilty has recently moved to Missouri to stay with relatives. The young Amish man's purpose is to escape troubling situations at home in Indiana. Fleeing a murder scene and an aggressive girlfriend, he needs time to contemplate his future. Abram is hired by Katie's father to work on the family farm. Upon meeting, sparks fly between Katie and Abram, and it's love at first sight. An impassioned relationship develops and develops too quickly. Ultimately Katie's family revelations and Abram's unknown past create numerous obstacles that threaten their relationship. Abram is passionate, and determined to win Katie's hand in marriage, but the need for self-examination and seeking God's will through prayer require them to meet their challenges independent of one another.

Laura V. Hilton has broached numerous intense issues in Awakened Love, creating multi-faceted and detailed portrayals throughout this Amish romance. Low self esteem, bullying, unfolding secrets, passionate love, anxiety over past experiences and uncertainty for the future develop into a chronicle of suspense. The author reflects deep insight into the realities of life, and describes the events and her characters with richness and credibility. This is the last in the series of The Amish of Webster County, and it exceeded my expectations! Ms. Hilton continues to capture my undivided attention.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author for the express purpose of my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

A Woman's Voice by Dolores Ayotte!


4.0 out of 5 stars Little Lessons in Life!

Book Description

As I enter into my twilight years, I want to permanently shed my insecurities and enter this final stage of my life with as much grace and wisdom as humanly possible. I have been an observant student for the majority of my life. Perhaps now, after all these years, I can get into the driver's seat and call myself a good teacher. I have succeeded in learning to "teach without classroom walls" and I have now written my own motivational books to go along with this philosophy. This experience has been extremely liberating for me. I hope by reading what I have to say and by incorporating some of my suggestions into your life, you too can find a sense of true freedom and peace. 

At the end of each chapter, there is an opportunity for personal reflection. I recommend that you take a moment to personally consider the questions posed and how my words can make a difference in your life. There is no need to rush through this inspirational book. It is meant to be read slowly, pondered upon, used as a stepping stone to reflect upon its content, its message and how it applies to each of you in your own life. I also want you to realize that my voice is only a soft whisper. Please hear it this way. It's from my heart to yours. Maya Angelou's words mirror my exact sentiments. "The idea is to write it so that people hear it and it slides through the brain and goes straight to the heart".


Purchase here:
http://www.amazon.com  $2.99 Kindle




Biography

Dolores holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in psychology as well as teacher certification in Manitoba, Canada. She has taken courses in human relationships and communication.
Upon completion of the Education 1A program at the University of Manitoba, she became a primary school teacher. During her teaching career Dolores furthered her education by completing her Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in psychology from the University of Winnipeg.

Her self-help books are written in retrospect based on a proven recipe, one she has incorporated step by step into her own life. Over time, Dolores eventually developed better life coping skills which inspired her to put pen to paper and write three books about her experiences. She utilizes quotes, anecdotes, humor and her own personal stories when necessary to make her suggestions relevant and to give an example of how to use her simple tips in daily living.

My Review ~

This little book contains several life stories that the author has used as a teaching tool to give others the opportunity to see how they can improve in their personal lives through the author's experiences. At the end of each story is a quote relating to the examples that the author has focused upon. The stories are relatable to most of us in some way or another, and the positive suggestions toward an improved life are realistic and practical. These little moments of meditation can be used on a daily basis or over a period of time. I would like to have seen this book published as a little gift book. It would be nice to have the opportunity to gift the people in our lives with these practical true life experiences and lessons. Well done!

Mystic Dreams and Dusty Roads by Robert Valleau!


5.0 out of 5 stars Exceptional!

About The Book

MYSTIC DREAMS AND DUSTY ROADS. Feisty twelve-year-old Peep Holler finds living with her single alcoholic father challenging as she struggles with puberty, faith and unforeseen tragedies at the beginning of the Oklahoma Dust Bowl years. But her greatest challenge yet lies just ahead.

One day, Peep innocently uncovers a dark secret which drives her further from her estranged father, and, if revealed, could rip apart her best friend’s family. While Peep copes with this secret, however, an untimely event occurs that alters her life perception...and sets her on a course that affects entire generations. (Title Design: Tate Publishing. Image: Rhonda Smiga Photography. Model: Shallan Victoria Marcum. ©2013)

Purchase Here: 
http://www.deepershopping.com $13.49 Paperback
http://www.amazon.com 14.25 Paperback, $8.99 Kindle
http://www.barnesandnoble.com $14.25 Paperback, $8.99 Nook

Biography

Bob has over 25 years of writing experience for the Christian market. His writing career began, in the 1980s, when he was hired by a Christian publishing company for their book department. Since then, he has worked as a full-time staff writer for two international ministries and was once named Christian Writer of the Year (San Antonio, TX) by the American Christian Writers Association. His credits include writing for Christian radio, television and the Internet. He has contributed to three books and has written numerous magazine and newspaper articles. He is the author of Mystic Dreams and Dusty Roads and is writing its prequel, Black Mesa Magic (Release: 2014).





My Review ~

The year is 1933. The country is in the throes of The Great Depression. The High Plains are being ravaged by dust storms and devastation, particularly in the Oklahoma Panhandle. Farmland was completely destroyed and families were stressed beyond measure. The hardships as a result of the depression and the severity of drought and devastating dust storms leave people either clinging to their faith or disclaiming it. Life and family dynamics are sadly altered by circumstances as a result of alcoholism and its backlash, as well as abuse, deceit and tragedy beyond all understanding. The magnitude of these circumstances is overwhelming. The friendship between two young girls during their coming of age is a bond that holds them together throughout the catastrophes surrounding their young lives. Their story is enchanting and poignant. 

This book has left me somewhat speechless! It is written with such clarity, wisdom and sensitivity that I was transported into the lives and settings of this emotional story. Robert Valleau is a brilliant author who writes with true passion and integrity. The descriptive qualities in this book are written with agonizing clarity, revealing tragedy that transcends all understanding, and the relationships throughout are presented with intensity and depth of feeling. Inspiration and discovering faith are strong undercurrents that lead to hope in the hearts of the afflicted. This is one book that I will keep and treasure, and undoubtedly reread in the future. Please don't miss this life-altering book.  

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review. Thank you, Robert Valleau!

The Letters (The Inn at Eagle Hill, Book 1) by Suzanne Woods Fisher

5.0 out of 5 stars
 Adventures at Eagle Hill!

Book Description

Rose Schrock is a plain woman with a simple plan. Determined to find a way to support her family and pay off her late husband's debts, she sets to work to convert the basement of her Amish farmhouse into an inn. While her family, especially her cranky mother-in-law, is unhappy with Rose's big idea, her friend and neighbor, Galen King, supports the decision and he helps with the conversion. As Rose finalizes preparations for visitors, she prays. She asks God to bless each guest who stays at the Inn at Eagle Hill. As the first guest arrives and settles in, Rose is surprised to discover that her entire family is the one who receives the blessings, in the most unexpected ways. And she's even more surprised when that guest decides to play matchmaker for Galen King.

With her signature plot twists combined with gentle Amish romance, bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher invites readers back to Stoney Ridge for fresh stories of simple pleasures despite the complexity of life. Fisher's tale of God's providence and provision will delight her fans and create many new ones. Welcome to the Inn at Eagle Hill.

You can purchase a copy of this book at the following locations:
http://www.deepershopping.com  $9.74 
http://www.amazon.com $11.48
http://www.barnesandnoble.com $11,49
http://www.christianbook.com $10.99
http://www.parable.com $12.97
http://www.familychristian.com $14.99
http://www.booksamillion.com $11.47

Biography

Suzanne Woods Fisher is the bestselling author of The Choice, The Waiting, The Search, A Lancaster County Christmas,The Keeper, and The Haven, as well as nonfiction books about the Amish, including Amish Peace. She is also the coauthor of a new Amish children's series, The Adventures of Lily Lapp. Her interest in the Anabaptist cultures can be directly traced to her grandfather, who was raised in the Old Order German Baptist Brethren Church in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. Suzanne is a Christy Award finalist and a Carol Award finalist. She is the host of internet radio show Amish Wisdom and a columnist for Christian Post and Cooking & Such magazines. She lives in California. For more information, please visit www.suzannewoodsfisher.com and connect with her on Twitter @suzannewfisher. Get Amish proverbs delivered right to your iPhone or iPad! Download the Free App! http://bit.ly/134r55G


My Review ~

Rose Schrock was propelled into a life of chaos when her husband's bad business decisions forced the family into bankruptcy. The family moved in with Rose's ornery mother-in-law, Vera. After her husband's drowning, and with four children to support, Rose faces great financial hardship. She prays for help and direction. In the grocery store she overhears a couple in need of lodging for the night. Rose offers her home as a place for the couple to sleep. Upon receipt of $100 for supplying bed and breakfast to the couple, Rose begins to think about transforming the basement level into a bed and breakfast in order to make ends meet. After considerable prayer Rose undertakes renovating the space into a pleasant efficiency unit with the help of her bachelor neighbor, Galen King. Rose prays for a special blessing for each guest who stays at her inn, and miraculous events begin to take place. Her first guest in the newly remodeled space brings heartache that turn into blessings as Rose and her family reach out to her in her time of need. Adventures abound and romance develops as life at Eagle Hill transpires.

In this multilayered story Suzanne Woods Fisher has created a beautiful blending of plots and relationships. A variety of situations and personalities are developed throughout the story. Heartache, disappointment and mistrust evolve toward faith, prayer, hope and humor. Attention to detail and descriptive qualities make this an outstanding book of inspiring Amish fiction. I enjoyed this book so much that I will certainly read it again in the future. I look forward to the sequels in The Inn at Eagle Hill series.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from LitFuse Publicity for the purpose of my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received as a result of my review.

The Button Legacy by Ginger Marcinkowski

5.0 out of 5 stars
 Nostalgic and poignant!

Book Description
“My Dearest Emily…

When you were a little girl, a change occurred in you. You lost a piece of yourself somewhere….But when you were here in Plaster Rock, you bloomed. The stories we told with these buttons made you smile. With your smile came hope.
Repeat the stories you’ve been told to your own children, never forgetting that God was there in every situation, in every story held inside this box…”

Growing up, Emily Evans of Run, River Currents had always shared a special understanding with her grandfather, John Polk, even when she couldn’t fully see beyond the darkness of her father’s abuse. Yet John looked to the future in faith to what his God could do.

Years after her grandfather’s death, the unexpected delivery of the decorated tin, still brimming with odd-colored buttons, unlocks the joyous memories and lets Emily realize she has finally discovered the secret her grandfather promised lay within the stories of the worn button box.

Told through the eyes of a godly grandfather, The Button Legacy laces together a godly heritage and the power of one man’s prayers, offering a lesson of how God’s grace can be seen even in the simplest thing–a button.

A copy of this ebook can be purchased at: http://www.amazon.com

Biography
Ginger Marcinkowski was born in northern Maine along the Canadian border, a setting that plays a prominent role in Run, River Currents. She is a daughter of divorced parents and is one of eight siblings.

Her debut novel, Run, River Currents, was published in August 2012 and was a 2012 semi-finalist in the ACFW Genesis Awards, also winning honorable mentions in national awards and festivals. The Button Legacy, published in June 2013, was written as a prequel / sequel to Run, River Currents.

Ginger has been a public speaker and visiting lecturer for many years. She has been a professional reader for the James Jones First Novel Award ($10,000 prize), and is currently a judge for the East-West Writer’s Contest and a reader for the ACFW First Impressions award.

My Review ~

A box containing a conglomeration of buttons has been passed down through the generations, each button representing a story in itself. Generations have repeated the stories behind each button in that old painted brass box. Additional buttons find their way into the box through the years, and their respective stories become a part of the accumulation. The telling of these button stories can be interpreted as lessons in God's divine providence. The lessons presented are as varied as each button is unique.

Ginger Marcinkowski has written a poignant and nostalgic look at life and its lessons through these stories represented by an accumulation of buttons. Some are tragic, others amusing, entertaining and even humorous. The events depicted through the lives of these buttons are lessons in life..... parables, and family dynamics. This is a walk down Memory Lane for me. I grew up with boxes of buttons, my grandmother's, my mother's, and I listened to the stories behind those buttons, told in much the same manner as the stories told in The Button Legacy. I found this book to be a wonderful story of life and its tragedies and joys. I highly recommend it!

Disclaimer: I received a PDF copy of this book from Cross Focused Reviews in exchange for my review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I received no monetary compensation for this review.

Prairie Song by Mona Hodgson

Post-War Transitions

Overview

The end of the American Civil War reopened the floodgates for humanity headed west. Men and women hungered for land and business opportunities to help them rebuild their Civil war-torn lives and families. Prairie Song chronicles the beginning of the overland journey for the westbound Boones Lick Road Company, a wagon train setting out from Saint Charles, Missouri in the spring of 1866. The captain of the caravan, Garrett Cowlishaw, lived through the war, while Caroline Milburn agonized at home, fearing that her missing husband was not destined to return. Trail hand Caleb Reger carries a crushing secret from the battlefield to the road west and Anna Goben knew she could lose her brother to the war, but hadn't imagined the ruin the loss could bring to her household. Encounter these few among the families and individuals, many from the Saint Charles Quilting Circle, who have set out looking for their Promised Land. On a road marked with more suffering, will they learn that the promise remains alive in their hearts, no matter the circumstances?

Purchase here: http://www.deepershopping.com/item/hodgson-mona/prairie-song-hearts-seeking-home-v1/4903813.html

About the Author

Over the last twenty-five years, Mona Hodgson’s publishing credits have grown to include nearly thirty children's books, contributions to more than ten books for adults, and four historical novels, including her debut, Two Brides Too Many inThe Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series. Mona is a popular speaker for women's groups, schools, and educators’ and writers’ conferences. She lives in Arizona with her husband and has two daughters and several grandchildren.

http://monahodgson.wordpress.com/

My Review ~

The year is 1866 and the Civil War battles have ended but the anguish over lost loved ones has not yet faded. Several St. Charles, Missouri families seek new beginnings by joining a wagon train bound for California. Seeking new opportunities provides hope for a future of promise and purpose. A number of plots and subplots run throughout this story of trials and hope, and numerous lives are blended in the quest for fresh beginnings. The main characters have been introduced in prequels to this story. In order to adequately understand the characters in this book, it would be helpful to read those prequels. Numerous topics are broached, including grief, alcoholism, family dynamics and secrecy. Faith in God, hope, trust and love become the catalysts toward becoming a team of travelers. Leaving everything behind in the quest for a better future also carries an abundance of adversity and stress. 

The author has written a comprehensive story of relationships through difficult circumstances. These relationships play adominant role in this story of challenge and misfortune. There are several families of differing ethnicities, which bring about challenges in their own right. The changing scenery is pictorial and descriptive. I had some difficulty keeping all of the characters straight, and had to backtrack a few times, but overall this book is well written, and recreates an adventurous wagon trail experience familiar to many.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Random House, Inc. through the Blogging For Books program for the express purpose of my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.