"The Decision"

(Prairie State Friends #1)

by

Wanda E. Brunstetter

5 stars

Description

#1 ECPA Fiction Bestseller!

Book 1 in a new series set in Arthur, Illinois

Starting over in a new Amish community after suffering terrible heartbreak has been going good for Jonah miller, until his heart takes another terrible hit. Elaine Schrock loves Jonah, but she feels she must dedicate herself to taking care of her grandmother. Jonah doesn’t know if he can risk loving a third time.

Purchase here:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Christianbook.com

Family Christian Stores

Parable Stores

Biography

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 over 60 books with more than 7 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 and https://www.facebook.com/WandaBrunstetterFans?fref=ts

My Thoughts ~

I've been a fan of Wanda Brunstetter's for many years, and have thoroughly enjoyed all of her books. "The Decision" impressed me with a depth and sensitivity even beyond this author's previous books. There is a depth and compassion that surpasses even her most impressive works that struck a cord with me and brought me to tears as I shared the characters' pain and loss, and the loneliness that surrounds us at times in our lives.

This story portrays the Amish realistically, authentically and with accuracy. not the simplistic, easygoing, comfortable people that many perceive. The Amish struggle with the same circumstances in life as the rest of society. Difficult times, death, illness and failures are presented with mercy and benevolence as Elaine Schrock deals with daily struggles that are at times insurmountable. The man she loves cannot understand her sudden change of character regarding their relationship.

Characters and setting are detailed and perceptive. Ms. Brunstetter is well acquainted with the Amish all across the country, with close friends in numerous communities. That closeness and friendship lends her an indepth viewpoint that weaves reality into her fictitious works. "The Decision" broaches some tough issues, and resolves those issues realistically. Elaine denies herself the one thing in life that would make her happy, but the timing is unfortunate as she deals with the issues that life hands her.

I was very impressed with this novel! It is one that I won't soon forget, and will undoubtedly read again. If you are interested in a truthful, honest portrayal of the Amish community and some of the hardships they share, please pick up a copy of this book and enjoy a beautiful story of love and loss!

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.

Do You Worry About Orphans?

Please Meet Author, Anne Garboczi Evans!

Do You Worry About Orphans?: 1 Practical Thing You Can Do

Did you know there are 400,000 children in foster care in America at this very moment? And this year over 20,000 of them will age out without ever being able to reunite with parents or be adopted. I’ve met kids who entered the system as young as three years old and went on to spend their entire childhood in foster care; never to be adopted.

I remember a lecture about foster care that I went to once. Two late teens/early-twenty something kids spoke. They had entered the system in early elementary school. They had never re-unified with their bio-families and were never adopted.

“Did you want to be adopted?” one of the prospective foster parents asked.

I thought the kids would hesitate, maybe say “no.” Perhaps they were too attached to their bio-families to have room in their heart for another family. Thus the county decided it would be best for them to be in long-term foster care instead. Surely if they had wanted to be adopted, some family could have been found for these beautiful, intelligent, very young kids.

“Heck yeah, I wanted to be adopted,” the young man and woman both said without a pause. “But nobody wanted us.”

Nobody. . .

They were sweet kids. They weren’t in trouble. But because they aged out of foster care without any family, their chances of getting a college degree, a good job, a nice house, etc. just became infinitesimally lower.

I think of myself at 18. What if my intro to adulthood was to be dropped off at a homeless shelter with a suitcase? How good would I have done? How good would you have done?

There’s such a huge need for families for these kids, it can feel insurmountable. But here’s a small step you can take right now in honor of National Foster Care month to move these kids a little closer to forever family. Would you join me in my thunderclap for foster kids? 

Just follow the link below and click “support through Facebook” or “support through twitter” and then “authorize app.” https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/22968-do-you-worry-about-orphans

This thunderclap talks about both my “Circling Orphans with Love 2015″ campaign that encourages people to share waiting children’s public heart gallery bios through social media and promotes my new children’s book, What’s a Foster Family? *

The picture book is about a young boy named Alex whose family starts fostering. Alex’s an only child who’s used to having Mommy and Daddy all to himself. So when his parents start doing foster care and little Malik joins their home, Alex’s not so sure he’s happy about sharing. What’s a Foster Family? is a great way to introduce your 3-7 year old to the idea of foster care and help him or her have empathy for the foster children he’s sure to meet at school or neighborhood groups.

*Thunderclap is a spam-free app that allows you to donate one pre-written Facebook status (or tweet) to a cause. All the statuses will be posted on April 28th for a thunderclap of support! 

Please help Anne with this worthy cause.

Anne Garboczi Evans is a mental health counselor, military spouse, author, and mama to an opinionated little toddler named "Joe-Joe."Anne and her husband are getting licensed as foster parents in Colorado, so soon their house will be exploding with little voices, little feet, and diapers, diapers everywhere.
Follow Anne on FB: https://www.facebook.com/annegarboczievans
On Twitter: https://twitter.com/garboczievans
On Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/garboczievans/

"Huckleberry Harvest"

(The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill #5)

by Jennifer Beckstrand

Description

Mandy Helmuth doesn’t like Noah Mischler. Not one little bit. First he breaks her best friend’s heart, and then he has the nerve to chastise her for being a busybody. She feels quite justified in her dislike until Noah does something heroic, like save her life, and she’s forced to bestow her grudging respect even as she determines to keep her distance. But when she unwittingly stumbles into his family troubles, she catches a glimpse of the person Noah so successfully hides from others. Will Mandy be able to look past Noah’s rough and unyielding exterior to see the man she is destined to love?

Much to Noah Mischler’s annoyance, uppity Mandy Helmuth thinks she has the right to tell him how to live his life. If he weren’t helping Mandy’s grandfather install a stove and fix his roof, Noah wouldn’t be within a mile of Huckleberry Hill or that nosy girl who gives him a lecture every time she opens her mouth. But when Mandy discovers the horrible truth about his father, Noah is forced to reveal humiliating secrets that he’s never shared with anyone. He trusts her with his secrets, but can he trust her with his heart?

Coming May 2015!

Biography

Jennifer Beckstrand is the bestselling Amish romance author of The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series for Kensington Books. Huckleberry Summer has been nominated for the RT Book Reviews Reviewer's Choice Award, and Huckleberry Hill won the 2014 LIME Award for Inspirational fiction. Both Huckleberry Hill and Huckleberry Christmas appeared in Examiner.com list of top ten inspirational books for 2014. 
Jennifer has always been drawn to the strong faith and the enduring family ties of the Plain people and loves writing about the antics of Anna and Felty Helmuth. Jennifer has a degree in mathematics and a background in editing. She and her husband have been married for thirty years, and she has four daughters, two sons, and three adorable grandsons, whom she spoils rotten.

http://www.jenniferbeckstrand.com/ 
https://www.facebook.com/jenniferbeckstrandfans
Twitter: @JenniferBeckst1

My Thoughts

The Huckleberry Hill matchmakers are at it again! Anna and Felty Helmuth's granddaughter is visiting for a month, and Anna is determined to find Mandy a husband during that time. Jennifer Beckstrand adds hilarity to a serious plot! Some serious issues arise in this author's latest novel, but I laughed aloud several times as unique humor is interwoven with a complex series of events. 

The characters throughout Huckleberry Harvest are colorful and varied, the Amish countryside lush and alive! Noah plays a very strong role, and plays it well. Although his stubbornness gets in his way at times, his intentions are solid and godly. Mandy is caught between a rock and a hard place, and appears to teeter between teenager and adulthood and back again with her giggly childhood girlfriend sweeping her into childish capers. 

Significant issues arise throughout this story of giggling girls and a young man who has no time for silly games. Mandy's character is one of charity, a compassionate, generous girl whose intentions are sound, but go beyond the boundaries of propriety. 

Alcoholism and a broken family, as well as misunderstandings add drama to the plot, and with the blending of humor and serious emotional and physical incidents, this is a page-turner from the start. I highly recommend this entertaining book, and feel that the author did a wonderful job of portraying tough struggles realistically with that thread of humor that breaks the tension.

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.

"A Corpse at St. Andrew's Chapel"

by Mel Starr

****Medieval Mystery

Description

Alan, the beadle of the manor of Bampton, had gone out at dusk to seek those who might violate curfew. When, the following morning, he had not returned home, his young wife Matilda had sought out Master Hugh de Singleton, surgeon and bailiff of the manor. Two days later Alan's corpse was discovered in the hedge, at the side of the track to St Andrew's Chapel. His throat had been torn out - his head was half severed from his body - and his face, hands and forearms were lacerated with deep scratches. Master Hugh, meeting Hubert the coroner at the scene, listened carefully to the coroner's surmise that a wolf had caused the great wound. And yet … if so, why was there no blood?

Purchase here:

http://www.amazon.com/

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

http://www.christianbook.com/

http://www.deepershopping.com/

Please read the book’s first chapter.

Biography

Mel Starr was born and grew up in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He graduated from Spring Arbor High School in 1960, and Greenville College (Illinois) in 1964. He received an MA in history from Western Michigan University in 1970. He taught history in Michigan public schools for thirty-nine years, thirty-five of those in Portage, MI, where he retired in 2003 as chairman of the social studies department of Portage Northern High School. Mel married Susan Brock in 1965, and they have two daughters; Amy (Kevin) Kwilinski, of Naperville, IL, and Jennifer (Jeremy) Reivitt, of Portage, MI. Mel and Susan have seven grandchildren.

Mel Starr's Home Page: http://melstarr.net/

My Thoughts ~

"A Corpse at St. Andrew's Chapel is an indepth medieval mystery. The author has researched his subject matter thoroughly, and follows this time period very effectively. A glossary of terms pertaining to medieval times is given at the beginning of this novel in order for the reader to become acquainted with detailing that is an integral part of the story.

Mr. Starr has depicted his characters with depth and relatable personalities. Very pictorial views of the castle, the chapel and surrounding landscape are portrayed in accordance with the time period and locale. Attention to detail is a strong point in this medieval mystery.

For those who enjoy being swept back in time to the days of the 14th century, "A Corpse at St. Andrew's Chapel" is a book to savor. Be prepared to stay with this book. You won't want to put it down! A gruesome murder and the details surrounding it will keep you riveted to your chair!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through Book Fun's For Readers Only program in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review. 

"A Horse for Kate"

by Miralee Ferrell

 A delightful story for young girls!

Description

A horse of her own would be awesome. But Kate figures that might be a long way away, especially since she had to give up riding lessons and move to her late grandfather’s farm. Besides, it would be a lot more fun to have a best friend to ride with. When Kate discovers a barn on their new farm that’s perfect for a horse, and a dusty bridle too, she starts to think that her dream might come true. Then she meets Tori at school, who is totally the best. So when they discover a thoroughbred that appears to be all alone, could it be the answer to her prayers? Maybe. If she can convince her dad ... and figure out what’s going on with that horse.

Purchase at the following locations:

http://www.amazon.com/

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

http://www.christianbook.com/

http://www.deepershopping.com/

Biography

Miralee Ferrell is the author of eleven popular novels, including the bestselling Blowing on Dandelions. She and her husband live on eleven acres along the Columbia River Gorge in Washington state, where she loves horseback riding on the wooded trails near her home. She also enjoys playing with her dogs, Lacey and Sophie.

http://miraleeferrell.com/

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

My Thoughts ~

Kate has lived in Spokane, WA where she took horseback riding lessons, and hoped to someday own her own horse. Her father's job required the family to relocate to her former grandparents' farm in a small community, but a horse wasn't within the family's budget. Kate befriended a neighbor girl, sharing her love of horses, and oftentimes stopping along the roadside on the way home from school to share carrots with area horses.

This book is written for girls aged 9-13, and is a family friendly, Christian fiction book that portrays Kate as a believable young junior high school age girl. She loves horses which is fairly common with girls that age. She befriends a young Hispanic girl at school, and as it turns out, Tori lives right next door to her. Kate and Tori are represented as typical young girls. I love the way the author broaches racial differences with acceptance and grace, and portrays her main characters with respect, compassion, patience and work ethics.

The characters are represented realistically and honestly. Their family standards are high, but not over the top as in some books. The author represents a wonderful and loyal family with Christian values and strong convictions regarding respect and humility. Kate is represented as a very sensitive and accepting young girl which is refreshing. 

The setting is well described, and it was a pleasure reading this sweet book! I was much like Kate as a young girl, and could easily put myself in her place. I'll be putting this book on the shelf for my granddaughter so that she can enjoy it when she is old enough to read it. 


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

"Crossroads"

A Miller's Creek Novel #6

by Cathy Bryant!

Emotionally gripping!

Description

Christian Contemporary Texas Romance 

A bitter single mom denies God's existence until... What will it take to bring her back around?

After a devastating divorce, a bitter single mom and atheist starts her own real estate company in the nostalgic and picturesque town of Miller’s Creek, Texas. Then her young daughter’s disturbing symptoms lead doctors to discover that her leukemia has relapsed. With her new life now turned upside down, Mara Hedwig struggles to keep her business afloat. And her daughter’s worsening condition forces her to rethink her beliefs about Carter Callahan and his God. Will Mara make the return to Christian faith in the face of life’s greatest challenge?

An ex-military operative struggles with the return to civilian life while coping with his rebellious teen-aged daughter. During a house-search, Carter meets Mara, a headstrong Realtor who wants nothing to do with his God. But when Mara’s little girl is diagnosed with leukemia, the clock begins ticking for him to convince Mara to return to a life of faith. Just as he seems to be making headway, circumstances beyond his control throw his efforts into a tailspin. Can Carter learn to rest in the sovereignty of God?

Click Here to Read or Download the First Chapter

Biography

Amazon best-selling author Cathy Bryant writes Christian fiction set in the heart of Texas. Her popular romance and romantic suspense novels take place in the fictional town of Miller's Creek, where folks are friendly, the iced tea is sweet, and Mama Beth's front porch beckons. Her debut novel, TEXAS ROADS, was a 2009 ACFW Genesis finalist and has been on the Amazon Best-Seller list. Since then four other stand-alone novels have been added to the series, one of which was a reader-nominated 2013 Grace Award nominee (PILGRIMAGE OF PROMISE). Readers have compared her work to that of Karen Kingsbury and Nicholas Sparks. 

A native Texan, Cathy currently resides in the beautiful Sangre de Cristo mountains of northern New Mexico with her minister husband of over thirty years. She's written devotions for The Upper Room devotional magazine, two devotional books, and for online sites. She also recently released her first Bible study booklet, THE FRAGRANCE OF CRUSHED VIOLETS. In addition to her writing, she enjoys thrift store shopping, romping in the great outdoors, and talking about herself in the third person. ;) To learn more about Cathy and her books, visit her website at www.CatBryant.com (or an even easier idea is to scroll down this page to check out her books).

My Thoughts ~ 

The description of this book at the top of the page is sufficient. I will not repeat it or add information that could lead to spoilers. Cathy Bryant has created two very strong characters who are each struggling with difficult circumstances. Each at a crossroads in life, they are forced to make choices and decisions that affect not only themselves but their respective daughters.

The author portrays her characters with depth and perception, with realistic personalities, honest reactions to life's obstacles, and believable emotions. Issues of faith are a point of paramount significance in this story of Carter and Mara.

Miller's Creek is defined as a small country community nestled in a lovely setting with a creek running alongside the town and its people. The landscape is depicted in a picturesque manner, sweeping the reader into the setting with ease and appeal.

Relationships are often tense and opposing, as well as compassionate, loving and possessing a strength of family. The lives of the characters in "Crossroads" are often represented with a very open and raw truth, resulting in great emotional responses for the reader.

Realism is a very strong characteristic throughout this book, and the battle with good and evil is relevant. Issues of faith are the threads that bind these people together and yet, a broken thread could unravel the strongest character.

Emotions run high in this read, so be sure to have the tissues at hand. I found myself in tears numerous times as I read this moving story of overcoming life's most difficult obstacles. I also laughed through some of the lighthearted and humorous sides to these wonderful characters. I highly recommend this well-written Christian novel. It could change your life!

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.

Crossroads Book Launch Party Link

https://www.facebook.com/events/714654335299203/745331105564859/

ABOUT THE BOOK LAUNCH PARTY/KINDLE FIRE HD6 GIVEAWAY:

YOU'RE INVITED!

What: CROSSROADS Book Launch Party

Where: Facebook (from the comfort & convenience of your own home)

When: April 30, 2015 ~ 7:00-8:30 p.m. (Central time)

Why: To celebrate the book launch of CROSSROADS (a Miller's Creek novel and Christian Romance by Cathy Bryant)

LOTS of Fun, Games and Prizes!

Prizes Include: Miller's Creek pens, tote bags, t-shirts, mugs, digital books, autographed print books, Amazon gift cards, and 

an Amazon Kindle Fire HD6!

Meet Protagonist, Camdyn Taylor
of  The Camdyn Series, 
& Author
Christina Coryell!
GIVEAWAY!

Welcome, Christina! I'm happy to feature you and The Camdyn Series on my blog. Your upcoming release of the 4th book in the series, "For No Reason" is right around the corner. I'm happy that you have chosen to introduce the protagonist of your series. Congratulations on the publication of the 4th book in this popular series, and thank you for taking the time to introduce Camdyn Taylor to my blog viewers!

"Thanks to Nancee for allowing me to be a guest on her blog today. This is a huge departure from the norm for me, because I’m a fairly private person. Not private as in shy or reserved in any way, but private in the way that I don’t want you to know my name. Private as in, if they allowed voluntary submission to the witness protection plan, I would be a prime candidate.

Deep breath…

My name is Camdyn Taylor. You might have seen me on the bestseller lists, although you wouldn’t have known it was me. I write under the pseudonym C.W. Oliver – historical fiction most recently. There are talks about making two of my books into movies, or so my publisher tells me. I really don’t keep up with the news, because I’m too preoccupied hiding from my neighbors and pretending to be a college student or a tourist.

Sometimes my best friend attempts to convince me to give up the pen name, but it’s too risky. You see, I’m kind of an accident waiting to happen. In most instances, that means spilling orange soda in my lap, or tripping over nonexistent obstacles, but other times it’s much worse. Other times it’s being proposed to very publicly in a most unwelcome manner - at the World Series, or through an embarrassing viral video - and then finding out that my image is being broadcast on the morning news programs.

That’s my life in a nutshell, at least until I decided to set out to rural Tennessee in search of research on my latest novel. Naturally, I managed to get lost and end up scared out of my wits. Thankfully, a kind stranger showed up – one who doesn’t believe in coincidence and happens to have a smile that could melt a girl’s brain. He offered to point me in the direction of his aunt’s bed and breakfast, and then…

Well, the rest is detailed in The Camdyn Series. It’s a snapshot of life, including a love story, some mystery, plenty of drama, a healthy dose of faith, and some historical elements. My misadventures are also detailed in their laugh-out-loud glory. Life is beautiful and challenging and funny and embarrassing and honest. I tend to believe good fiction should be all of those things, too."

**************************

April 11th marks the release date of the final novel in The Camdyn Series, "For No Reason." It’s the culmination of everything that has happened through the three previous books. There will be laughing, crying, and a profound undertaking of one of life’s harshest lessons. Readers have described The Camdyn Series as witty, zany, unpredictable, heart wrenching, powerful, poignant, true-to-life, warm, funny, tender, and real. "For No Reason" carries on all those traits to a satisfying conclusion.

For a chance to win your choice of a paperback or e-book of any of the four volumes of The Camdyn Series, simply leave a comment below.

Speaking of satisfying conclusions, life is calling my name. Thank you again for hosting me, Nancee!

Biography

Christina Coryell is an Amazon bestselling author of Christian women’s fiction, and The Camdyn Series is Amazon’s top-rated series in both Christian Women’s Fiction and Chick-Lit. She has degrees in English and History and continues to work full-time while she moonlights as an author. She lives in southwest Missouri with her husband and two children, and some of her best writing happens while people are climbing on her or loud guitars are playing in the background. A very picky reader, she believes all great stories should be character-driven, and she only considers a book a success if it has caused laughter or tears, preferably in the same chapter.

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!

Optional: For additional chances to win this giveaway, share this contest through either Twitter or Facebook, and sign up to follow my blog. Please let me know what you did for extra chances to win. Deadline for this giveaway is Monday, April 13, 2015.

"An Amish Cradle"

Four Novellas

by

Beth Wiseman

Amy Clipston

Kathleen Fuller

& Vannetta Chapman!

 Well done!

Description

Tiny fingers,

Tiny toes,

And lives that will never be the same.

Journey with four families as their lives are about to change forever.

In His Father’s Arms by Beth Wiseman

Ruth Anne has been dreaming about motherhood her entire life. Now she is doubly excited that she and her best friend are due with their children the same week. But when Ruth Anne’s baby is born with Down’s syndrome, she and her husband struggle to understand God’s plan.

About Beth Wiseman - Award-winning, bestselling author Beth Wiseman is best known for her Amish novels, but she has also written several successful contemporary novels, set primarily in her beloved Texas, including Need You Now and The House that Love Built. Both have received glowing reviews. Beth's The Promise is inspired by a true story. Website: www.bethwiseman.com Twitter: @bethwiseman Facebook: Fans-of-Beth-Wiseman

My Thoughts ~ Learning to accept the birth of a child with Down Syndrome is very difficult for Ruth Anne's husband to accept as he distances himself from his wife and son. This story about a special needs baby is written with honesty and sensitivity, and represents issues that any parent of a child with special needs would encounter. It's a poignant story of faith and overcoming fear, as a young couple comes to terms with the realities of their child's condition.

A Son for Always by Amy Clipston

Carolyn and Joshua are thrilled to be pregnant with their first child together. Carolyn was just a teenager when she had her son, Benjamin, and she still feels solely responsible to secure his future. As Joshua watches Carolyn struggle to accept his support, he knows he has to find some way to convince her that she—and Ben—will always be taken care of.

About Amy Clipston  - Amy Clipston is the award-winning and best-selling author of the Kauffman Amish Bakery series. Her novels have hit multiple best-seller lists including CBD, CBA, and ECPA. Amy holds a degree in communication from Virginia Wesleyan College and works full-time for the City of Charlotte, NC. Amy lives in North Carolina with her husband, two sons, and four spoiled rotten cats. Visit her online at www.amyclipston.comFacebook: AmyClipstonBooks Twitter: @AmyClipston

My Thoughts ~ Carolyn refuses to give up her worrying, and pushes herself beyond her limits. This Amish family is strong, and the characters in this story are well rounded and believable. I found myself angry with Carolyn's constant worry and lack of faith in both her husband and God. Tangible concerns are dealt with in a discerning and inspiring manner as Carolyn seeks peace, trust and faith in both family and God.

A Heart Full of Love by Kathleen Fuller

Ellie’s mother hasn’t stopped meddling in her personal life since Ellie lost her sight—and she’s taken it up a notch now that Ellie’s pregnant. When Ellie gives birth to twins, her mother insists on moving in to care for them. But when her mother’s behavior becomes unbearable, Ellie is forced to take a stand . . . and finally find out why Mamm can’t let go.

About Kathleen Fuller - I was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, grew up in Little Rock, Arkansas, and currently live in Geneva, Ohio. I've been married to James for 21 wonderful years (really, they have been wonderful!) We have three terrific children, three dogs, and have raised cattle, pigs, and chickens at various times over the years. We would have gone into the goat business, but I had to draw the line somewhere. I started writing in 2000, and published my first short story a year later. Since then I have authored several short stories, novellas, novels, and have done a lot of freelance non-fiction work. I have also worked as an editor. I have a Masters degree in Special Education, emphasis on teaching the blind and visually impaired, and a Bachelors in Early Childhood/Elementary Education. I have taught all age groups ranging from age 4 to age 21. A few of my favorite things: my relationship with Christ, chocolate (of course!), autumn, a satisfying book, good friends, a sense of humor, people who don't take themselves seriously, haunting melodies, NFL football, and did I mention chocolate?

My Thoughts ~ Ellie's story is poignant. Her mother lacks confidence in her ability to care for her twin infants because of her blindness. Ellie's maam also has a lack of trust that affects her relationship with her daughter and newborn twins. Reconciliation and faith are redeeming themes that run through this novella of a difficult relationship related to past tragedies in the lives of Ellie and her maam. 

An Unexpected Blessing by Vannetta Chapman

At 42, Etta thought she was finished having children, but she’s pregnant again. After a frightening labor, Etta finally gives birth, but her constant worry over her estranged grown son, David, haunts her still. As a new mother again, Etta must hold tightly to the promise that God will watch over her children—and that one day David will return.

About Vannetta Chapman - 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. In 2012 she was awarded a Carol Award for Falling to Pieces. She discovered her love for the Amish while researching her grandfather’s birthplace of Albion, Pennsylvania.  Visit Vannetta's webiste: www.vannettachapman.com  Twitter: @VannettaChapman  Facebook: VannettaChapmanBooks

My Thoughts ~ An unexpected Blessing takes place in Shipshewana, Indiana where winters are brutal. Vannetta Chapman writes with a familiarity of the area that only a seasoned visitor would know. This story of faith, family, financial struggles and parenting in the Amish community is told with sensitivity, tenderness and warmth! 

 Life is full of surprises!

*****You can listen to chapter one of An Amish Cradle for free!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SALvM4jqpcU

Order Now

• Amazon
• Thomas Nelson
• Barnes & Noble
• Booksamillion
• Christian Book Distributors

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.