Perspectives By Nancee: June 2014

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Forever Amish

by Kate Lloyd

Review & Giveaway x 2!

5.0 out of 5 stars Unique Approach!

Description

The latest book in the Legacy of Lancaster trilogy, Forever Amishintroduces us to a young woman about to uncover a shocking secret and find an invitation to a new way of living. This is a story of forgiveness, legacies, and the ties that bind through generations.

It’s the Last Thing She Expects to Find

Sally Bingham needs some time away to sort through the changes in her life and to rethink her upcoming marriage. Despite her ailing father’s hesitations, she takes off for a bed and breakfast in Lancaster County for a weekend away. But her best-laid plans leave her in a near collision with a bishop’s buggy and in the home of a mysterious Amish woman named Lizzie. Lizzie introduces her to a different perspective on life, a charming farmhand named Armin— and opens a Pandora’s box that will forever change Sally’s life.

Purchase a copy and learn more at Kate’s website. Copies can also be purchased at http://www.deepershopping.com/ - $9.74

Biography

Author Kate Lloyd is a passionate observer of human relationships. A native of Baltimore, Kate spends time with family and friends in Lancaster County, PA, the inspiration for her novels. She is a member of the Lancaster County Mennonite Historical Society. Kate and her husband live in the Pacific Northwest. Kate studied painting and sculpture in college. She’s worked a variety of jobs, including car salesman and restaurateur.

Find out more about Kate at http://katelloyd.com and https://www.facebook.com/kate.lloyd.773?fref=ts

My Review ~

The third in the Legacy of Lancaster Series, Forever Amish deviates from the mainstream as Amish fiction goes. This parable begins with Sally Bingham and her father who lead fairly ordinary lives aside from the fact that Sally's mother disappeared from her life when she was too young to remember. Sally has been receiving emails from an Amish girl in Pennsylvania which have piqued her curiosity. A weekend trip to Lancaster County launches Sally into a curious situation that has her questioning the direction her life is taking, and opens some doors to her past. Her father's deception surfaces, and Sally's presence in the Amish community opens her eyes to the importance of family and faith. Numerous questions arise and a handsome Amish man attracts Sally's attention, but who could learn to live with the restrictions the Amish Ordnung places on its families?

Kate Lloyd has taken an unexpected approach in the last of this series by introducing a young Englisch woman and her father and creating an unpredictable and unexpected adventure into the Amish community. Deception is a strong theme that could sever relationships or potentially bind them together. A strong contrast between the Amish life and the modern ways of the non-Amish are well delineated throughout this fast-paced novel. The consequences that result from a life of deception are well portrayed throughout, and forgiveness becomes the focus in the lives of the characters in this complex story. The author has created a thought-provoking and strong moral thread in this final book in this series. This could easily be a stand-alone book, not reliant on the prequels. Enjoy!

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

CONTEST GUIDELINES: Please leave a comment and your email address using [at] and [dot] to protect your email address from spam. Share this review with your friends. Giveaways are limited to residents of the continental US only, please. I am not responsible for loss or damage through the postal service. Winners have one week to claim their prizes. Thank you so much for visiting my blog! I appreciate all of your comments!

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Sunday, June 22, 2014

The Turning

by Davis Bunn
Review & GIVEAWAY!

5.0 out of 5 stars Impressive!

Description

The message was unexpected but instantly recognizable.

A voice resonated from a distance and somehow from within. Against all earthly logic, it carried a divine command. And five very different people knew they were summoned to obey.

Their actions were demanding, but not particularly grand. Only later would they see a pattern emerge - one that links their tasks together and comes to challenge the cultural direction of the nation. They realize that one small personal response unveiled a new realm of moral responsibility. And this affirmation of everyday hope captures the attention of millions.But power and money are at stake. Malicious elements soon align themselves to counter the trend. To succeed they must also undermine its source. Can we really believe that God speaks to people today? Surely this must be dismissed as superstition or delusion. These well-intentioned but misguided individuals should not be allowed to cast our society back into the Dark Ages.

The public debate and media frenzy place an unprecedented spotlight on knowing and doing God's will. The five encounter threats, but try to remain steadfast in their faith. Had God indeed imparted wisdom on selected individuals? Is this sweep of events part of his divine purpose?

The movement may herald a profound renewal - one that some are calling The Turning...

This book can be purchased at the following locations:

http://www.amazon.com/

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

http://www.christianbook.com/

http://www.deepershopping.com/

Free 40-Day Email Devotional at http://www.theturningbook.com/index.php/devotional/ #theturning

Biography

T. DAVIS BUNN, a native of North Carolina, has lived in Europe for thirty-five years. Davis' academic background includes degrees in psychology and economics from Wake Forest University and a master's degree in finance from the City University of London. Fluent in three languages, he has traveled extensively in Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East.

Davis enjoys a particularly strong following in the inspirational market, often ranking on the Christian Booksellers' Association bestseller lists. He has collaborated with Janette Oke, one of the leading names in Christian publishing, on a series of novels. Davis is a New York Times Bestselling author and has garnered a number of industry honors, including four Christy Awards for excellence in historical and suspense fiction.

Davis teaches in the Creative Writing Programme at the University of Oxford, where he holds an appointment as a Core Lecturer in the subject of fiction. He splits his time between Oxford and Florida with his wife Isabella.

Connect with the author at: http://www.davisbunn.com/ & https://www.facebook.com/davisbunnauthor

My Review ~

Is it plausible to discern the voice of God in the cacophony of the 21st century? In Davis Bunn's most recent novel five people of diverse ethnicities and various walks of life are seized by the presence of God. His message? "Take the turning and walk the unlikely road." Their calling leads them to New York City Times Square where a shocking message screams, "Hope is Dead!"

Power hungry and greedy for wealth and control, the Mundrose Group yields its power through all forms of media bombardment to influence and control the minds of young adults. Their diabolical message that hope is dead conveys the shock value to produce millions of curious minds to respond. Success at all cost, with no conscience for the damage it could inflict on young minds, is paramount to the influential company and its powerful schemes.

The ever present conflict between good and evil once again rears its ugly head as the chosen five respond to the challenge delivered. This presentation is not only authentic, but representative of the corruption that exists in our society. The author has created realistic personalities that fit the molds of the divergent belief systems present in current generations.

Davis Bunn has developed a compelling and tenacious story that will challenge your beliefs and convictions. Inspiring and compelling, The Turning is a captivating and thought provoking novel. Written with an intensity that is absorbing, it is difficult to set the book aside. I highly recommend this inspirational novel and the devotional that accompanies it. The link for the devotional is listed above.

Disclaimer: I received copies of this book from River North after their request for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

CONTEST GUIDELINES: Please leave a comment and your email address using [at] and [dot] to protect your email address. Giveaways are limited to residents of the continental US only, please. I am not responsible for loss or damage through the postal service. Winners have one week to claim their prizes. Thank you so much for visiting my blog! I appreciate all of your comments!

Friday, June 20, 2014

Light the Fire

by Mary Manners
Review & Giveaway!

5.0 out of 5 stars A journey to forgiveness and trust

Description

A choice, a tragedy, and life-altering consequences…

When Rena Dunigan flees New York City and her dream of becoming a Broadway performer, she returns to her hometown harboring a life-altering secret and the shame of a shattered past. When her friend talks her into helping build a house through the local Shelter the Homeless program, Rena meets Cody and his mischievous Saint Bernard. Cody is dealing with a devastating loss of his own, yet his gentleness and patience melt Rena's resolve never to trust—or to love—again.

But what will Cody think when he learns the consequences of Rena's past? Will he reject her, or can she trust that love will heal hurting hearts and forever bind them together?

Purchase at the following locations:

http://www.amazon.com/

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

http://www.christianbook.com/

Biography

Mary Manners is an award-winning romance writer who lives in the beautiful foothills of East Tennessee with her husband Tim and the cherished cats they've rescued from local animal shelters...Lucky and Gus.

Mary's debut novel, Mended Heart, was nominated Best Inspirational Romance 2010 and was a finalist for the Bookseller's Best Award while her follow-up, Tender Mercies, was awarded an outstanding 4 ½ star rating from The Romantic Times Book Reviews and was also a finalist for the Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Buried Treasures claimed Book of the Year by The Wordsmith Journal while Light the Fire took top honors for the 2012 Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Her latest, Wisdom Tree, also claimed the 2013 Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Mary was named Author of the Year by Book and Trailer Showcase. She writes romances of all lengths, from short stories to novels--something for everyone.

Connect with Mary on her Facebook reader page at Mary Manners, author and at her website: http://www.MaryMannersRomance.com

My Review ~

Both main characters in this poignant novel are tormented by pain and loss. Having built walls to protect their fractured lives, both Rena and Cody shy away from any form of commitment. Shame, guilt, fear and loss follow Rena. Cody is broken by loss. Rena's broken family ties and the anguish from former tragedies haunt her. Cody's devotion and involvement with his family and his faith are what keep him putting one foot in front of the other.

In this poignant novel Mary Manners has created two shattered individuals and developed their characters through various stages of grief, fear of commitment and brokenness toward healing. The author writes with empathy, compassion and sensitivity, and weaves the threads of loss and torment into a tapestry of healing elements. Faith, trust and forgiveness are presented with integrity and credibility. I found this book to be emotionally charged and very inspiring!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Pelican Book Group through the Book Fun For Readers Only group in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

Thursday, June 19, 2014

Blind Trust

by Sandra Orchard

Exceptional Thriller!

Description

Kate Adams had no idea she was carrying counterfeit money, and she can’t believe that it came from her sweet neighbor. Or that it lands her in the middle of another one of Detective Tom Parker’s investigations. Determined to prove her neighbor’s innocence, Kate stumbles into a pit of intrigue that is far deeper than a two-bit counterfeit operation–and strikes too close to home for comfort. As family secrets come to light, her world–and her budding romance with Tom–begin to crumble. To Kate, it’s clear that she won’t be safe until she uncovers all of Port Aster’s secrets. But is it too late for her and Tom?

Award-winning author Sandra Orchard draws readers into a world of rogues, red herrings, and romance as she unfolds the continuing story of amateur sleuth Kate Adams.

This book can be purchased at the following locations:

http://www.amazon.com/

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

http://www.christianbook.com/

http://www.deepershopping.com/

Biography

Sandra Orchard is an award-winning author of inspirational romantic suspense with Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense imprint, and Revell Publishing. She is an active member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America and The Word Guild (Canada). A mother of three grown children, she lives in Niagara, Canada with her real-life-hero husband and now writes full time…when not doting on her young grandchildren. You can learn more about Sandra’s books and bonus features at www.SandraOrchard.com or connect atwww.Facebook.com/SandraOrchard

Sandra is represented by Steve Laube of the Steve Laube Agency.

My Review ~

The second in the Port Aster Secrets series, "Blind Trust" contains drama and suspense that rivals even the prequel, "Deadly Devotion." Suspicious activities and an elderly neighbor's bizarre and fluctuating mental status have Kate Adams questioning even the most innocent circumstances. Detective Tom Parker once again becomes involved in Kate's life after she is accused of counterfeiting, and together they discover more than just a simple counterfeiting ring. An ongoing murder investigation and someone suspected of stalking Kate creates a foreboding element in Kate's every move. Suddenly her life takes on new anxieties and fear for her life. The past returns to haunt her.

Sandra Orchard has an amazing talent for creating a fast-paced drama of sinister activities and suspense that keeps the reader engrossed in her stories. Having read "Deadly Devotion," I couldn't wait for this sequel in the Port Aster Secrets series, and believe me, I was not disappointed! Sandra has built upon her first novel in the series, and created another suspense novel that had me holding my breath, and turning pages well into the night. There's no time for boredom in this breakneck thriller, not to mention the element of romance that seeps into the picture! If you're a fan of thrillers with an underlying theme of devotion to friends and family, this is the series you'll want to read again and again. Sandra Orchard has captured my attention, and is an author to follow! Don't miss this scintillating novel!

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

Monday, June 16, 2014

Where Healing Blooms

An Amish Garden Novella

by Vannetta Chapman

An Amish Garden Novella

Description

Emma discovers a run-away teen in her barn, and the bishop asks her to provide a haven for a woman and her two children. Then her mother-in-law reveals a secret about her garden. Will Emma choose loneliness or learn to accept God’s gifts?

Vannetta Chapman is author of the best-selling novel A Simple Amish Christmas. She has published over one hundred articles in Christian family magazines, receiving over two dozen awards from Romance Writers of America chapter groups. She discovered her love for the Amish while researching her grandfather's birthplace of Albion, Pennsylvania. Twitter: @VannettaChapman Facebook: VannettaChapmanBooks

My Review ~

Spring has arrived in Shipshewana, and Mary Ann's garden is once again her haven. Her daughter-in-law, Emma, joins her in weeding and tending to the garden, more expansive and prolific with each passing year. The garden haven holds secrets that no one could suspect. Vannetta Chapman weaves a story with depth and perception that places her in a category all her own. Her characters are strong and the setting picturesque. There's no guessing the ensuing events in this well-written novella. Much diversity is revealed in this extraordinary short story and I craved more, but the author wrapped up all loose ends bringing closure to this impressive novella.

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

All My Belongings

by Cynthia Ruchti

Inspirational!

Description

A new identity can’t protect Becca from a past that refuses to go away. Where do you turn when changing your name doesn’t give you the anonymity you want? When running hundreds of miles away isn’t far enough? When your search for a place to belong lands you right back where you began? One phone call destroys all the hope Becca Morrow has for a life beyond the shame of her past. Further discredited by the death of her elderly, ailing patient—the mother of the influential businessman, Isaac Hughes—Becca’s new life is shattered and her longing for love slips away. Working to clear her name, Becca must learn to see the beauty in the ugliness of dying, to accept the tenderness in forgiveness, and—at last—discover that where she belongs isn’t as much about her family history as it is about her faith in the One to whom she’ll always belong.

This book can be purchased at the following locations:

http://www.amazon.com/

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

http://www.christianbook.com/

http://www.deepershopping.com/

Biography

Cynthia Ruchti is the author of the critically acclaimed Where the Morning Glory Blooms and They Almost Always Come Home. After 33-years as writer/producer of the daily 15-minute radio broadcast, The Heartbeat of the Home, Cynthia served a two-year term as president of American Christian Fiction Writers and currently serves as ACFW's Professional Relations Liaison. In addition to writing novels, devotionals, and magazine articles, she speaks for women's events and writers' conferences. Cynthia and her plot-tweaking husband live in Central Wisconsin, where she creates stories of Hope-that-glows-in-the-dark. Find Cynthia on the web at CynthiaRuchti.com and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CynthiaRuchtiReaderPage

My Review ~

Becca's tale is complicated and heartrending, including a childhood void of love or support Her care-giving duties for her dying mother are thwarted when her father ends her mother's life with his Kevorkian-style method. A nursing school student, she is denied re-entry into the program because of her father's guilt and jail sentence for his mercy killings. Upon hearing from her nephew that her elderly sister is dying, an older friend of Becca's recommends her as caregiver. Becca changes her identity and a journey leads her halfway across the country to a life far from the past that haunts her. Her compassionate nature and sensitivity brighten the Hughes household as she finds ways to bring comfort and cheer to the elderly Mrs. Hughes during her last days, lifting the responsibility from her son who owns a successful real estate agency.

All My Belongings is a beautifully descriptive, inspirational novel penned with compassion, elegance and passion. Cynthia Ruchti displays tremendous insight once again in this emotionally charged, intensely sensitive narrative of family dynamics, death and dying and starting over. The development of Becca's faith life is beautifully illustrated throughout the details in the relationships in this novel. Acceptance and forgiveness are strong elements that come to fruition in this inspiring story. The topics of mercy killing, adoption, deception and grief are blended with elements of humor, romance and beauty. I highly recommend this deeply moving story of life, death and new beginnings.

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

Sunday, June 8, 2014

Murder, Simply Stitched

(An Amish Quilt Shop Mystery, #2)

by Isabella Alan

5.0 out of 5 stars Witty Amish Suspense!

Description

When Angela Braddock enters her quilts in an Amish auction, she never expects one of her neighbors to end up going, going, gone....

Angie is finding her niche as the new owner of her late aunt’s Amish quilt shop, Running Stitch. But as the summer is winding down, so is business. To bolster support for the shop, Angie decides to sell her quilts in the Rolling Brook Amish Auction, including some of her aunt’s most prized works.

The quilts promise to be a hit—but the gavel comes down on the lively event when Angie stumbles upon the body of township trustee Wanda Hunt behind a canning shed. The cause of death: a poisoned blueberry fry pie from Rachel Miller’s bakery table. Now Angie’s closest friend is a murder suspect. With Angie taking the lead, she and the other women of her aunt’s quilting circle set out to patch together the clues and stop a killer set on shredding the simple peace of Rolling Brook.

This book can be purchased at the following locations: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, CBD

Biography

Isabella Alan is the pseudonym for Amanda Flower. Amanda Flower, an Agatha-nominated mystery author, started her writing career in elementary school when she read a story she wrote to her sixth grade class and had the class in stitches with her description of being stuck on the top of a Ferris wheel. She knew at that moment she’d found her calling of making people laugh with her words. Her debut mystery, Maid of Murder, was an Agatha Award Nominee for Best First Novel. Amanda is an academic librarian for a small college near Cleveland.

Contact author at: http://isabellaalan.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/IsabellaAlanAuthor

My Review ~

Angie's new business venture operating her late aunt's Amish quilt shop has been a success throughout the tourist season. Angie sets up a booth at Rolling Brook Amish Auction in order to sell some of her quilts and a few of her aunt's prized quilts to keep her afloat throughout the looming winter months. The sudden death of township trustee Wanda Hunt is considered a homicide, and Angie's dear Amish friend is accused of poisoning her. Angie and her Amish quilting circle brainstorm to disprove that theory!

Throughout this tale of mystery and intrigue Angie finds herself in the most bizarre situations, lending a comical element to this Amish mystery. Her "city"dog Oliver takes cover at the sight of a bird, yet is overprotective of her kitten, watching over him like a mother hen. Mischievous twins and a goat named Petunia add to the shenanigans, and provide wacky entertainment throughout the story. Sheriff Mitchell doesn't appreciate Angie's presence at the crime scene or her unsolicited appearances throughout the investigation of Wanda's death, but his gorgeous eyes appear to convey more than irritation. As you might have already gathered, this Amish mystery covers numerous elements that prove to entertain, intrigue, and keep you turning pages to transport you to the next development!

Isabella Alan pens a story that is filled with adventure, wit and colorful characters that will keep your interest until the last page. "Murder, Simply Stitched" is a delightful blending of all the great characteristics that will keep your interest and curiosity piqued throughout the entire story. Never a dull moment is to be found in this captivating read! The author has written this book in the first person and does a fantastic job of it. I enjoyed this book so much I'll undoubtedly read it again. The author develops a descriptive, fast-paced adventure of activities that are creative and penned in a unique style. I highly recommend that you pick up a copy of this book and settle in for a long evening of entertainment!

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.

Friday, June 6, 2014

Unforeseeable

by Nancy Mehl
Review & GIVEAWAY!

5.0 out of 5 stars Unforeseeable!

Description

Callie Hoffman knows she has a good life in Kingdom, Kansas. She's thrilled to be engaged to Levi Housler, the new pastor of Kingdom Mennonite Church, and she spends her days working with her friend and soon-to-be sister-in-law, Lizzie Housler, at Cora's Cafe.

However, Callie's idyllic life is interrupted when a body is discovered on the road outside Kingdom and the deceased turns out to be a victim of a serial killer. As Washington County's new sheriff begins questioning Kingdom residents, Callie and the rest of the town are appalled at the prospect of a killer among them. The very reason Kingdom exists is to protect the people from the temptations and dangers of the outside world, but all the town founders' attempts to plan ahead couldn't prevent a threat like this.

Unsettled at this unforeseen danger, Callie is concerned when it appears Levi knows more than he's telling. Desperate to find answers for herself, Callie never expected that she'd have to face some of her own past's skeletons.

As Callie and the residents of Kingdom fear this danger for which they never planned, they must learn anew that only God knows the future and their trust must always lie in Him.

This book can be purchased at the following locations:

http://www.amazon.com/

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

http://www.christianbook.com/

http://www.deepershopping.com/

Biography

Nancy Mehl lives in Festus, Missouri, with her husband Norman, and her very active puggle, Watson. She's authored fifteen books and is currently at work on a new romantic suspense series for Bethany House Publishing.

All of Nancy's novels have an added touch - something for your spirit as well as your soul. "I welcome the opportunity to share my faith through my writing," Nancy says. "It's a part of me and of everything I think or do. God is number one in my life. I wouldn't be writing at all if I didn't believe that this is what He's called me to do. I hope everyone who reads my books will walk away with the most important message I can give them: God is good, and He loves you more than you can imagine. He has a good plan especially for your life, and there is nothing you can't overcome with His help."

You can find out more about Nancy by visiting her Web site at: www.nancymehl.com or find her newsletter at: www.nancymehl.blogspot.com. She also is active on the Suspense Sisters: www.suspensesisters.blogspot.com and on FaceBook @ https://www.facebook.com/nancy.mehl?fref=ts

My Review ~

The small Mennonite community named Kingdom has had its share of difficulties over the years, but their peaceful existence is shaken to the core by the discovery of a murder victim left along the only road into Kingdom. The murder of the young woman has residents fearful of what lies beyond or possibly within their isolated haven from the outside world. The lives of Kingdom's people are intertwined by their association through their local church pastored by a young single man, Levi Housler, who has been facing disapproval by older members of the fellowship. His marriage to Callie Hoffman has been delayed, and the wedding date will have to be changed once again in light of the sinister activities surrounding the community. Callie's past is buried beneath layers of self-protective defenses. Both Levi and Callie's best friend have witnessed the changes since childhood, and seek to assist Callie toward healing and the self discovery of God's purpose for her life.

This is the third in the Kingdom series, and I'm sorry to see the series end. Nancy Mehl has produced a trio of Mennonite suspense stories that keep the reader entertained throughout each book. Unforeseeable is no exception. The characters in this book are well developed and believable, and the developments throughout this book are unpredictable and suspenseful. There is unseen drama and heartrending circumstances that keep this story progressing at a fast clip making it difficult to set this book aside. The author has a gift for producing a gripping and well-told story of a peaceful community of people, and the affect that the outside world imposes upon them.

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