"Christmas Mittens"

by Laura V. Hilton

Description

Gracia Dykstra enjoys her job at the Senior Center, especially at Christmas time when the seniors have an annual craft shop. Desperate to raise funds Gracia asks for donations of Christmas trees to sell in order to raise much-needed funds, but Christmas tree donations are scarce. Jake Trivett has quit his job in California to come home and help his dad who runs a struggling tree farm. A friendship with Gracia, who he’s always admired, intrigues him. Gracia’s heart flutters with more than Christmas spirit when Jake, an old flame, answers her phone call regarding tree donations. Will Gracia receive more than Christmas trees this year?

Purchase here:
http://www.amazon.com

Biography

Award winning author, Laura Hilton, her husband, Steve, and their five children make their home in Arkansas. She is a pastor's wife, a stay-at-home mom and home-schools. Laura is also a breast cancer survivor.

Her publishing credits include three books in the Amish of Seymour series from Whitaker House: Patchwork Dreams, A Harvest of Hearts (winner of the 2012 Clash of the Titles Award in two categories), and Promised to Another. The Amish of Webster County series, Healing Love (finalist for the 2013 Christian Retail Awards). Surrendered Love and Awakened Love followed by her first Christmas novel, A White Christmas in Webster County, as well as the Amish of Jamesport series, The Snow Globe, The Postcard, and The Birdhouse. Other credits include Swept Away from Abingdon Press' Quilts of Love series. Laura is contracted for another three book Amish series set in the Jamesport area, with the first book, The Amish Firefighter, planned for April 2016.

She has indie published a Christmas novella, Christmas Mittens.

Laura is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and a professional book reviewer.

Website: http://www.lauravhilton.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Author-Laura-V-Hilton-161478847242512/timeline/


My Thoughts ~

Those Christmas mittens were truly a gift of love! One of the ladies from the senior center lovingly knitted those red mittens, and Gracia had her eye on them. They were the perfect match to her winter apparel. 

Filled with innocence and dreams for the future, Gracia felt that kind of life was far out of reach. Her lack of self esteem held her back from those things that every girl desires. There were times I wanted to shake her and other times I loved her. She demonstrated such a warm Christian spirit, and I admired her willingness to step forward and take on tasks that most young women would balk at.

Jake was a bit aloof and hard to read, and his attitude frustrated me at times, but I loved his character, devoted to his father and the farm he loved. His devotion and compassion for family and community are definite assets to this hardworking young man's character.

Sparks flew as these two characters clashed and misunderstood each other, yet the atmosphere sizzled as a flash of attraction smoldered beneath the surface. Is this relationship going anywhere? Is there even a relationship to question? Pick up a copy of this sweet Christmas novella and find out for yourself if the sparks ignite and light a fire under Jake and Gracia!

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

Trial by Twelve

(A Murder in the Mountains #2)

by Heather Day Gilbert

Description

Tess Spencer loves her low-key job at the Crystal Mountain Spa, which allows her plenty of down-time with her one-year old daughter and lawyer husband, Thomas. But when a pool installation turns up eight skeletons in the spa's back yard, Tess becomes entangled in a sleuthing job destined to go awry.

As the investigation gets underway, someone dumps a fresh body near the excavated burial site, confirming unspeakable fears. A serial killer has returned to Buckneck, West Virginia...a skilled hunter with a unique taste in prey.

When Tess agrees to help the cunning Detective Tucker gather clues from the inside, she discovers the posh spa hides more than dead bodies. Even as she sifts through layers of deceit, Tess realizes too late that the killer's sights have zeroed in on her.

Unpredictable psychological mystery replete with memorable characters, Trial by Twelve is Book Two in A Murder in the Mountains series.

This novel is written from a Christian worldview.

This book can be purchased at the following locations: 

http://www.amazon.com 

http://www.barnesandnoble.com

Biography

HEATHER DAY GILBERT writes novels that capture life in all its messy, bittersweet, hope-filled glory. Born and raised in the West Virginia mountains, generational story-telling runs in her blood. Heather is a graduate of Bob Jones University and is married to her college sweetheart. Having recently returned to her roots, she and her husband are raising their three children in the same home in which Heather grew up.

Heather's Viking historical novel, God's Daughter, is an Amazon Norse Bestseller. She is also the author of A Murder in the Mountains mystery series, and the Indie Publishing Handbook: Four Key Elements for the Self-Publisher.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/heatherdgilbert
FB Author page: https://twitter.com/heatherdgilbert
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/heatherdgilbert/boards/

My Thoughts ~

This is the first book I've read by this author, but it won't be the last. A fast-paced and unpredictable mystery, I wasn't able to lay this book aside for any length of time. A Trial by Twelve was unlike what I expected, and I was pleasantly surprised.

With a serial murderer on the loose Tess' life turns into a whirlwind of questions and dangerous situations. A number of people in the community are suspect as Tess works with Detective Tucker in unraveling numerous frightening and ambiguous clues. Murder victims continue to mystify the residents in this small mountainous community, and Tess endangers her life while attempting to uncover evidence that could lead to the murderer.

Throughout the book, letters composed by a father to his child in foster care are revealed, adding to the suspense. It isn't clear who this person is and what role he plays in this mystery, but the fact that these letters show up throughout the story indicates that the originator of those letters could be a suspect. The letters gave me shivers as I read between the lines. Numerous characters throughout this book became suspect in my mind, and as Tess encountered these individuals my heart raced!

Family is a very strong component throughout this well written story. I could relate to those wonderful, loving family ties. Each member watched out for the others, and the bonds between friends and family are commendable. Love is a strong force.

Rather than give you more details, let this mystery unravel for yourself, and pick up a copy of Trial by Twelve. You won't be disappointed! 

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

"Luther and Katharina"

A Novel of Love & Rebellion

by Jody Hedlund
5 stars!

 Description

Katharina von Bora has seen nothing but the inside of cloister walls since she was five. In a daring escape, Katharina finds refuge with Martin Luther and seeks his help to pair her with the noble, wealthy husband she desires.

As class tensions and religious conflicts escalate toward the brink of war, Martin Luther believes that each day could be his last and determines he will never take a wife.

As the horrors of the bloody Peasant War break out around them, the proud Katharina and headstrong Martin Luther fight their own battle for true love, in one of the greatest love stories of history.

Purchase at the following locations:
http://www.amazon.com 
http://www.barnesandnoble.com
http://www.christianbook.com
http://www.deepershopping.com

Biography

Jody Hedlund is an award-winning and bestselling author of inspirational historical romances for both youth and adults.

As a busy mama-writer, she has the wonderful privilege of teaching her crew of 5 children at home. In between grading math papers and giving spelling tests, she occasionally does a load of laundry and washes dishes. When she's not busy being a mama, you can find her in front of her laptop working on another of her page-turning stories.

She loves reading almost as much as she loves writing, especially when it also involves chocolate and coffee.

Website:  http://jodyhedlund.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJodyHedlund?fref=ts


My Thoughts ~ 

Luther and Katharina is one of the most impressive books I've read this year. Based on fact, with a compelling historical account of one of the most powerful and influential men in the Protestant Reformation, the author has created a captivating story. Martin Luther brought to light the truth of scripture, advocating the power of God's grace. Romance is the furthest thing from Luther's mind, but thoughts of Katharina haunt him. Katharina's strength of character, intellect and competence as an herbalist are well documented, making her a significant benefaction to Luther.

The rebellion in the 16th century is described in magnificent detail, raw, authentic, brutal and commanding. This is history through realistic fiction, the factual account of life and the bloody persecution as a result of Luther's doctrines. His relationship with the beautiful Katharina is depicted as intense and agonizing.  

The descriptive elements in this novel are highly commendable with an intricate attention to detail. The Reformation brought religious, political, intellectual and cultural upheaval, with violence the norm for that period in religious history. Hedlund paints a vivid portrayal through a masterful account of the lives of Luther, Katharina and those who were a part of their lives, and their attempts to inform others to the significance of grace through faith.

This well researched and impressive novel is a masterpiece in religious history and romance through fiction. I was engrossed in this literary work as I followed the characters through the events and atrocities of the time. Suspense was another strong feature as this unpredictable story unfolded. Luther and Katharina's story had a profound affect on me, one that is unforgettable. I highly recommend this masterfully written novel! 

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

Review & GIVEAWAY!
"Anna's Healing"

(Plain & Simple Miracles #1)

by Vannetta Chapman

5 stars!

Description

Anna’s Healing is the first book in a brand-new collection from popular author Vannetta Chapman. These stories of love and family and Amish community in Oklahoma tell of the miracles that can happen when lives are lived in service to God and to one another.

When a tornado strikes the farms surrounding Cody’s Creek, Anna Schwartz’s life is changed forever. She suffers a spinal cord injury and suddenly finds herself learning to live as a paraplegic.

Three people—Chloe Roberts, Jacob Graber, and Ruth Schwartz—join forces to help Anna through her darkest days. Chloe is an Englischer who writes for the local paper. Jacob has recently arrived in town and stays on as a hired hand at her uncle’s. And Ruth is her grandmother, a woman of deep faith and a compassionate spirit.

Then one morning Anna wakes and finds herself healed. How did it happen? Why did it happen? And what is she to do now? Her life is again turned upside down as the world’s attention is drawn to this young Amish girl who has experienced the unexplainable.



Purchase at the following locations:
http://www.amazon.com
http://www.barnesandnoble.com 
http://www.christianbook.com
http://www.deepershopping.com

Biography

Vannetta Chapman writes inspirational fiction full of grace. She has published more than one hundred articles in Christian family magazines, receiving more than 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. Her novel Falling to Pieces was a 2012 ACFW Carol Award finalist. A Promise for Miriam earned a spot on the June 2012 Christian Retailing Top Ten Fiction list. Chapman was a teacher for 15 years and currently writes full time. She lives in the Texas hill country with her husband. 

For more information, visit her at www.VannettaChapman.com 
Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VannettaChapmanBooks/photos_stream


My Thoughts ~

Anna's Healing made an extraordinary impact on me as I grew to love the characters in this book! There were moments while reading this story that my emotions got the best of me. Each character represents someone real, someone in our lives, loved ones, friends, community. A freak tornado not only broke Anna's back, it also broke her spirit. Her entire world collapsed around her. Difficulty accepting help from others isn't an unusual reaction in the event of major life changes, but Anna fought her reality with ferocity even through her miraculous healing. 

Those involved in Anna's life became heroes in my sentiments. Her close Englisch friend, Chloe, Jacob Graber, her church community and most of all, her grandmother, were very strong components in this poignant story. I felt a tangible closeness to Anna's grandmother, a woman of strong and unwavering faith. Her life represented a deep peace and inner strength. She became my hero throughout Anna's story. Always a balm to Anna, she spent long hours reading scriptures and praying for Anna. I was deeply affected by that devotion. Jacob is an extraordinary character, a man of character and devotion. I connected with him immediately as he sought peace and harmony in his own life and eventually demonstrated that devotion to Anna.

Every day Anna awakened with her grandmother at her side, reading scriptures and praying. "Do you believe in miracles, child? Our Gotte is a Gotte of miracles." Reticent, Anna is reluctant to take on that conversation. Haunted with recurrent dreams, Anna struggles to comprehend their meaning. Her grandmother, always attentive, always at Anna's side through the worst of the storms, had an understanding of those dreams. She believed.

Are miracles real? Do you believe in miracles? It has been written that miracles do exist with examples to substantiate those theories. Anna's Healing is a pinnacle in faith, a faith that is so well represented in this story that my own beliefs were charged. This book is written with such depth of feeling that it stirs the soul and awakens the senses. I highly recommend this restorative depiction of how an entire community is affected by the events in one person's life.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All expressed opinions 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!

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: Wednesday, September 30, 2015.
  

"The Lopsided Christmas Cake"

by Wanda E. Brunstetter

& Jean Brunstetter!
5 stars!

Description 

Join the Hochstetler twin sisters on stage as they bumble their way through baking a cake for a charity auction in front of a live audience. The take-charge Elma and the klutzy optimist Thelma manage to entertain their audience—and attract the admiration of two bachelors, an outspoken woodworker and a shy harness maker from a neighboring Amish community. As fall leads into the Christmas season, could romance be blossoming for one or more of the Hochstetler twins? Find out in this brand new romance from New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter, writing with her daughter-in-law Jean Brunstetter.

Purchase at the following locations:

http://www.amazon.com

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

http://www.christianbook.com

http://www.deepershopping.com

Biographies

Wanda E. Brunstetter

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, 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 books have been translated into four foreign languages.

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.

Wanda E. Brunstetter currently resides in the state of Washington. 

Jean Brunstetter

Jean Brunstetter, Wanda E. Brunstetter's daughter-in-law, enjoys writing about the Amish and takes every opportunity to visit her Amish friends in many communities.

My Thoughts ~

Getting to know the Hochstetler twins is an experience to be enjoyed! Elma and Thelma plunge into their first major life change with some trepidation, but the sense of excitement compels them to leave their home in Illinois for the farm they've known all of their lives. Killed in an Amish buggy accident, their grandparents left their estate in Topeka, Indiana to their twin granddaughters. 

Elma and Thelma are identical twins except for their very different personalities. Discovering the quirky and somewhat contrary personalities of these young women is not only interesting, but very entertaining! Familiar temperaments reminded me of people in my own life! Identical doesn't count where their identities are concerned!

The fact that life isn't always what it seems comes to play in this adventure of discovering what befalls them as they take over the farm. The activities that ensue on the farm are a bit overwhelming, but humorous to say the least! I thoroughly enjoyed the predicaments these young women found themselves in, and had a few laughs at the comedic episodes that ensued.

A sweet autumn season leading up to Christmas, I found this book to be a charming story of the devotion these women held for one another, and their discoveries about who they are as individuals. Romance is in the air, and the innocence of new love is endearing!

Be sure to add this book to your collection and enjoy another wonderful book by Wanda E. Brunstetter with the assistance of her daughter-in-law, Jean Brunstetter!

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

 

"The Gift"

Prairie State Friends, Book 2

by Wanda E. Brunstetter
5 stars!
 

Description

Follow the heart-wrenching story of Adam Beachy, whose mother walked out on him and his family—and away from the Amish faith. Now he balks at the idea of ever marrying and having a family of his own. But when tragedy strikes, Adam is suddenly a father figure to his three nieces and finds himself needing a wife. Despite their differences over her practice of reflexology, Leah Mast seems the best option to fill that role. Can they make it work in a modern-day marriage of convenience?  

Purchase at the following booksellers:

http://www.amazon.com

http://www.barnesandnoble.com

http://www.christianbook.com

http://www.deepershopping.com

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, 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 books have been translated into four foreign languages.

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.

Wanda E. Brunstetter currently resides in the state of Washington. 

Website: http://www.wandabrunstetter.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WandaBrunstetterFans?fref=ts

My Thoughts ~ 

Adam Beachy's past haunts him, with abandonment always lurking beneath the surface of his thoughts. Upon the sudden deaths of his sister and her husband Adam is faced with the responsibilities of raising his three nieces. Leah Mast has reached a time in her life that marriage seems only a distant dream. Her gift of reflexology is one of her joys in life, as she helps members of her community find relief from their ailments. Adam sees her gift as hocus pocus, creating a bone of contention between them. In spite of their differences Leah agrees to care for Adam's nieces while he tends to his hardware business.

The second in The Prairie State Friends series, The Gift captured my attention with its detailed and heart-wrenching events. Developments throughout this poignant story evoke emotions of considerable proportions. Credible events create a realistic portrayal of humanity. I was captivated and impassioned throughout this impressive novel of overcoming significant obstacles in life's pathways. 

The author possesses a wealth of knowledge of the Amish community, and is a master at creating inspiring plots and engaging characters. The Gift is a impressive depiction of life and the impact that profound circumstances places on those illustrated throughout this remarkable story of tolerance, forgiveness and faith. I highly recommend The Gift and its prequel, The Decision. This series is an unforgettable testament to the author's expertise.

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

"Lightning on a Quiet Night"

by Donn Taylor

5 stars!

 

Description

In the years following World War II, a town too proud of its own virtues deals with its first murder. Following a horrific murder, the town of Beneficent, Mississippi, population 479, tries desperately to hold onto its vain self-image. The young veteran Jack Davis holds that idyllic vision of the town and tries to share it with Lisa Kemper, newly arrived from Indiana. But she is repelled by everything in it. While the sheriff tries to find the killer, Jack and Lisa's contentious courtship reveals the town's strange combination of astute perceptions and surprising blind spots. Then they stumble onto shocking discoveries about the true nature of the town. But where will those discoveries lead? To repentance or to denial and continuation in vanity?

Purchase at the following locations:

http://www.amazon.com

http://www.barnesandnoble.com

Biography

Donn Taylor led an Infantry rifle platoon in the Korean War, served with Army aviation in Vietnam, and worked with air reconnaissance in Europe and Asia. Afterwards, he earned a PhD in English literature (Renaissance) and for eighteen years taught literature at two liberal arts colleges. His poetry has appeared in leading journals and is collected in his book Dust and Diamond: Poems of Earth and Beyond. In addition to the historical novel Lightning on a Quiet Night, his fiction includes a light-hearted mystery, Rhapsody in Red, and two suspense novels, Deadly Addictive and The Lazarus File, which has been re-issued as an e-book. He is a frequent speaker at writers’ groups and conferences. He lives near Houston, TX, where he continues to write fiction and poetry, as well as essays on writing, ethical issues, and U.S. foreign policy.

Lightning on a Quiet Night was one of three finalists in the Historical Romance category of the Selah Awards this year.

Website:  http://donntaylor.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authordonntaylor?fref=ts

My Thoughts ~

The small-town community named Beneficent holds on to their views of a near-perfect community of Christian residents. I found their self-righteous beliefs representative of the community where I grew up, and was able to relate to the mentality that bad things just don't happen in Beneficent. Townspeople are shaken by the murder of a popular teenage girl. Who in their community could possibly commit such a heinous crime, certainly not one of their own? It has to be an outsider!

Lisa Kemper is appalled at the ridiculous mindset in the community. Her association with war hero, Jack Davis is based on suspicion, with an attraction she can't quite comprehend. Characters throughout this well written small-town mystery are believable and representative of small-town America. They are as varied as members of any community. Personalities are creative and well depicted, a gossipy woman who can't control her nosiness, a sheriff so laid back one wonders if he knows his business, as well as a wealthy banker and his family, people who are well respected.

This is a great story of "people" and the perceptions they hold, as well as an unpredictable mystery that captured my attention throughout. I found it difficult to put this book down, wanting to discover what would be revealed in the next chapters. I highly recommend this book for the action and discoveries that the author creates. The underlying themes of faith and redemption are commendable. I'm anxious to read more books created by this author.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review. All expressed opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

"Oh My Soul"

by Jaleesa Cox

Description

Collections from a modern-day Psalmist, Oh My Soul presents a new age approach to devotion with a poetical twist. Have you ever been in love with Him? Have you ever felt like His love left? Desire. Hope. Deliverance. In Oh My Soul, author Jaleesa Cox expresses the love of God, our love toward Him, and the trying times in between.

Purchase at the following locations:

http://www.amazon.com

http://www.barnesandnoble.com

http://www.deepershopping.com (best price)

Biography

Jaleesa Cox is a 4K teacher. She is an active member in her church, helping with children's ministry and serving as needed. When not working, she enjoys listening to classical music and instrumental jazz. Jaleesa Also enjoys attending theatrical productions with family and friends.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jaleesa-R-Cox/1587508944870977?fref=ts

My Thoughts ~

Jaleesa Cox has composed her own version of the biblical version of Psalms in modern day poetic prose. Based on her own experiences and her relationship with God she has put pen to paper and created a refreshing modern devotional book. Each of her psalms is titled and listed in a table of contents so that topics that may be pertinent to the reader can easily be found. A daily devotion and prayer book all in one for modern day readers, I found this little book to be well written and original. Well done!

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

"Sailing in Style"

(Love by Design, #2)

by Dana Mentink

Description

  

Fledgling decorator Cy Franco has an impossible mission; to turn the water damaged reception room of an historic inn into a showplace fit for the spectacular private wedding of a celebrity actor couple. The sticky wicket? The work must be done without disturbing any of the guests and the River King Inn happens to be a paddle wheel steamboat. For Cy it’s a golden opportunity to support Dollars and Sense, a decorating company owned by Cy and his sister Rosa. And really, he can’t exactly refuse the work, since he was the one who caused the damage in the first place when he caught site of a woman from his past, Piper Brindle, the lady who stole his heart (and his pickup truck.)

Missing jewelry and jilted lovers? Slipcovers and celebrities? Paintbrushes and painful pasts? It’s going to be a tumultuous journey on this river boat cruise.

Purchase at the following locations:
http://www.amazon.com
http://www.barnesandnoble.com

Biography

Dana Mentink lives in California where the weather is golden and the cheese is divine. Her family includes two teen girls (affectionately nicknamed Yogi and Boo Boo.) Papa Bear is retired from the fire department and he met Dana doing a dinner theater production of The Velveteen Rabbit. Ironically, their parts were husband and wife.
Dana is an American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year finalist for romantic suspense and a two time ACFW Carol Award winner. Her suspense novel, Betrayal in the Badlands, earned a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award. She is honored to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired, Harlequin Heartwarming, and Harvest House Publishers. Besides writing, she busies herself teaching third grade. Mostly, she loves to be home with Papa Bear, Yogi, Boo Boo, a dog with social anxiety problems, a chubby box turtle and a feisty parakeet.

Website: http://www.danamentink.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dana.mentink?fref=ts

My Thoughts ~

Aboard the steamboat River King Inn we are introduced to several quirky characters, some with questionable backgrounds and motives and others who'll warm your heart. I was immediately fond of Cy, a work driven, tender hearted, lonely young man who carries a load  of heartache that refuses to let him go. His past love, Piper, is a frustrating young woman who is goal driven to become an actress at the expense of the one who loves her most.

The setting is charming, and easily envisioned as a grand old relic of the past, with a possible resplendent future. Events throughout this story are fast paced and filled with mystery and intrigue. There are characters who warmed my heart, and others who are as irritating as a nasty fly! The balance of characters and events was excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I found humor between the lines and was touched by the warmth generated by the author's approach to some very special family members. This is a wonderful weekend read filled with mysterious events and romance, a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat and captivated throughout!

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.

"Heaven's Symphony"

by Steve Swanson

Description

Worship is more than music… it is your invitation to a divine encounter!

When you worship, more is going on than meets the eye. You take your place among a heavenly symphony that has been offering up praise since the dawn of time.

Purchase at the following locations:

http://www.amazon.com/

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

http://www.christianbook.com/

http://www.deepershopping.com/

Biography

Steve Swanson travels throughout the world leading worship, teaching, and speaking.  Steve carries the anointing that brings the atmosphere of heaven to earth, bringing worshipers into a place of God’s glory and life-changing presence.

Since 1997, Steve has overseen Friends of the Bridegroom Worship Ministries and has released 25 worship CDs.

Website: http://fobworshipmin.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/steve.swanson.33

My Thoughts ~

In this revelation, Steve Swanson gives testimony to the many facets of his relationship with God, and offers his experiences so that others can attain closeness with God. He describes the sounds of heaven through the sounds of the simplest things in life, and transcribes those sounds into music, Heaven's Symphony....

Also discussed are the steps used to effectively speak to God through thanksgiving, praise and worship. As the author states, "obedience is the key to staying in God's presence....   placing more faith in God's provision, goodness and wisdom...."

The author's experiences and wisdom are very intense and passionate, and resonate with the notes of sounds we hear every day. 

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