"Overshadowed"

(The Remnant)

by Vannetta Chapman

Description

When the Lights Go Out...
 

Who Will Be Ready?

All Gabe Thompson wanted was a rewarding and challenging career in the U.S. military. He's about to get his wish.

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 winner. A Promise for Miriam earned a spot on the June 2012 Christian Retailing Top Ten Fiction list. Anna's Healing was a 2015 Carol Award finalist. Chapman writes Amish romance, Amish cozy mysteries, and Christian dystopian (suspense). 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 


My thoughts ~

Overshadowed is the prequel to The Remnant Series, a dystopian collection of books taking a look at what the world would be like if a massive solar flare occurred, wiping out all modern technology.

A short story, the Kindle version of Overshadowed is available through Amazon free of charge. It's a quick read, but a preview of coming attractions in The Remnant Series. Order your Kindle copy in order to introduce yourself to a thrilling series! You'll be enlightened by the possibilities of the future. 

 

"Amish Quilts"

Giftable Inspiration Along with Quilting Tips

Featuring the photography of Richard Brunstetter, Jr 

with inspiration from Wanda E. Brunstetter

Description

Enjoy a trip into the Amish quilting tradition through beautiful full-color pictures by Richard Brunstetter. Taken in Amish communities and homes throughout the United States, his pictures offer a visual celebration of the quilting traditions of plain peoples, while author Wanda E. Brunstetter offers her insights into the roles quilts play in family life. Also included are tips for those who want to make their own heirloom quilts.

 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 70 books with more than 9 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 

My thoughts ~

Amish Quilts is a beautiful photographic compilation of traditional quilts made by the Amish. The photography provided by Richard Brunstetter Sr. is impressive. 

Featured on the facing page of each photograph is a quotation of significance, either from the bible or a familiar adage, and a quilting tip.

This is a lovely photographic representation of the traditions of Amish quilters. I own an Amish made quilt like one that is pictured in this book, and it means a great deal to me.

This pictorial book of traditional quilts made by the Amish is a beautiful representation of quilts from Amish communities across the country. If you're a quilter or just enjoy seeing the art represented through beautiful quilts you'll enjoy this book very much!

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.

 

  

"Eden Hill"

by Bill Higgs

 

 

 

Description

 

Nothing seems to change in Eden Hill, Kentucky, and that’s just fine with Virgil T. Osgood. He’s been content to raise his family and run the only service station in town. But when a new station is set to open right across the road from Virgil’s pumps, he suddenly faces obstacles in his career, his marriage, and his self-worth that he’s never even dreamed of.

Cornelius Alexander wants his new Zipco station to succeed and help establish a strong foundation for his growing family. As long as he follows the Zipco guide, he’s sure to be a success—and prove his father wrong.

Reverend Caudill wants to be a conduit for grace in his town, but that grace is challenged by the changes sweeping through in the early 1960s. For the sake of this small town, Virgil and Cornelius must learn to get along, but how do you love your neighbor when his very presence threatens to upend everything you hold dear?

 

 

 

 

 

Biography

 

Bill Higgs is a lapsed academic, former engineer, and avid storyteller. He also admits to being a nostalgic baby boomer, with a keen interest in how things past can teach lessons for the present. He lives in Kentucky with his wife, author Liz Curtis Higgs, and her two cats. Eden Hill is his first novel. 

 

 

My thoughts ~

Eden Hill, Kentucky could be any Rural Town, USA. Life was slower, and neighbors were at most times, friends. A few of the neighbors were a bit too well informed as far as other people's business, but for the most part people cared and shared. As in most small communities, change isn't easy. People are accustomed to the regularity of their routines, and become suspicious of change. So it was for Eden Hill.

Very well acquainted with Small Town, America during the 1960s, I could easily relate to the characters portrayed throughout this book. It was a time when people cared for one another, offered help, and spread news to neighbors. Major changes were looked upon with suspicion and uncertainty, particularly when a new business threatened the livelihood of a second generation gas station and garage.

Eden Hill moved at a leisurely pace with a warm familiarity, difficult times portrayed, and of course, a bit of humor. I'm quite impressed with this debut novel of everyday life. Life was presented creatively in a realistic style. I think that Mr. Higgs has done a fine job of bringing the past to the present in a poignant and authentic manner. I thoroughly enjoyed the slower pace and realistic activities that make this a wonderful, relaxing read. I highly recommend it!

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

"Amish Friends Harvest Cookbook"

by Wanda E. Brunstetter

 

Description

Overloaded with garden produce, CSA shares, or farmers’ market finds? Now you’ll know what the Amish do with these seasonal fruits and vegetables and how they preserve some of them for future use. Bring the wisdom of Amish gardeners and cooks into your own home with dozens of recipes and tips from the heart of Amish country in Wanda E. Brunstetter’s Amish Friends Harvest Cookbook. This well-organized book is sure to become a treasured resource.

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 70 books with more than 9 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 

My thoughts ~

  

Wanda E. Brunstetter's Amish Friends Harvest Cookbook is one of the best cookbooks I now own. I'm very impressed with the beautiful photos throughout the book. Scriptural messages add to the theme of each category featured.

Recipes have been collected from numerous communities of Amish and Mennonites, locations that Ms. Brunstetter has visited throughout her travels. She has developed friendships through many areas where her friends have been willing to share their secrets of cooking the Amish way.  

I found several recipes that I will be trying, tried and true recipes that the Amish have passed through generations. Methods for preserving the harvest are provided. As cookbooks go I'm not one to buy them for myself, but I'm grateful for receiving a copy of this one from the publisher.

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. 

"Newton & Polly"'

A Novel of Amazing Grace

by Jody Hedlund

Description

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
that saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost, but now am found…

Now remembered as the author of the world’s most famous hymn, in the mid-eighteenth century as England and France stand on the brink of war, John Newton is a young sailor wandering aimlessly through life. His only duty is to report to his ship and avoid disgracing his father—until the night he hears Polly Catlett’s enchanting voice, caroling. He’s immediately smitten and determined to win her affection.

An intense connection quickly forms between the two, but John’s reckless spirit and disregard for the Christian life are concerns for the responsible, devout Polly. When an ill-fated stop at a tavern leaves John imprisoned and bound, Polly must choose to either stand by his side or walk out of his life forever. Will she forfeit her future for the man she loves?

Step back through the pages of history, to uncover the true love story behind a song that continues to stir the hearts and ignite the faith of millions around the globe.

Biography
 
Winner of 2016 Christian Book Award for fiction and Christy Award for historical romance, best-selling author Jody Hedlund writes inspirational historical romances for both youth and adults.

Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. Although Jody prefers to experience daring and dangerous adventures through her characters rather than in real life, she’s learned that a calm existence is simply not meant to be (at least in this phase of her life!).

When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.

My thoughts ~

Based on the true life story of John Newton and Polly Catlett, this novel of "Amazing Grace" is filled with harsh struggles, stormy seas and intense love. Written with depth, integrity and authenticity the author has brought to life and light, the characters in this powerful book. I'm still absorbing the details of this incredible novel!

I loved Polly and her family, a warm and loving group of characters. John had me loving him and despising him all in the same breath. His estrangement from his family and lack of self esteem, and his refusal to conform to expected responsibilities brought him to disparaging conditions numerous times throughout his life. He suffered self-inflicted atrocities on a regular basis, and was beaten nearly to death several times. His refusal to comply with order, or accept God and his grace only made his life more miserable. His only hope was through his longing for Polly's love.

A masterpiece of artistic composition, Newton & Polly is an unforgettable novel of overcoming despair through grace and redemption. Inspiring and educational, Newton & Polly is among the best novels I've read to date. Through the hymn, "Amazing Grace," John Newton lives on in the hearts of billions of people from all over the world.

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.


 

"My Sister's Prayer"

(Cousins of the Dove)

by

Mindy Starns Clark 

& Leslie Gould

Description

Virginia, 1705
Celeste Talbot is usually such a sensible young woman—until she falls for an English soldier reassigned to the Colonies. Leaving her Huguenot family behind, she sets sail for America, only to realize that her younger sister Berta has been kidnapped and forced on board the very same ship. Whom can Celeste trust? The dashing soldier? Or the vigilant carpenter who remains by their side in the perilous New World?

Virginia, present day
Madeline "Maddee" Talbot has her hands full when she agrees to take in her younger sister Nicole following a serious car accident. The young women grew apart when Nicole fell into drug addiction, and Maddee prays this will be the start of a better life for her sister. But as they investigate a trauma from their childhood, Maddee must keep a diligent eye on Nicole—and the shadowy figure watching them from afar.

From the Christy Award-winning team of Mindy Starns Clark and Leslie Gould, My Sister's Prayer tells an epic tale of two women compelled to protect their sisters, confront their fears, and navigate the muddy waters of betrayal to find true love.

About the authors ~

Mindy Starns Clark is the bestselling author of more than 20 books, both fiction and nonfiction, with over a million copies sold. Mindy and her husband, John, have two adult children and live in Pennsylvania. www.mindystarnsclark.com

Leslie Gould, a former magazine editor, is the author of numerous novels, including Beyond the Blue and Garden of Dreams. She received her master of fine arts degree from Portland State University and lives in Oregon with her husband, Peter, and their four children. www.lesliegould.com

My thoughts ~

Parallel stories of relationships between sisters and their family's connection over a three-century time frame takes the plot forward concurrently. Both pairs of sisters have difficult relationships. Considering their differences healing may never come. 

The characters depicted throughout this book are well developed and believable. The descriptive elements regarding the locale are strong and palpable in both settings. Preposterous incidents are heartbreaking and inconceivable, but the reality of those situations is authentic. 

I was swept away by both settings and the difficult relationships between both sets of sisters. This is a page turner, one that I won't soon forget. Although historic fiction, my opinion is that this could be labeled reality fiction. My Sister's Prayer boldly portrays honesty in difficult family relationships. I highly recommend it!

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

  

"A Sparrow in Terezin"

by Kristy Cambron

Description

Bound together across time, two women will discover a powerful connection through one survivor’s story of hope in the darkest days of a war-torn world.

Present Day—With the grand opening of her new art gallery and a fairy–tale wedding just around the corner, Sera James feels like she’s stumbled into a charmed life—until a brutal legal battle against fiancé William Hanover threatens to destroy their future before it even begins.

Now, after an eleventh-hour wedding ceremony and a callous arrest, William faces a decade in prison for a crime he never committed, and Sera must battle the scathing accusations that threaten her family and any hope for a future with the man she loves.

1942—Kája Makovsky narrowly escaped Nazi-occupied Prague in 1939 and was forced to leave behind her half-Jewish family. Now a reporter for The Daily Telegraph in England, Kája discovers the terror has followed her across the Channel in the shadowy form of the London Blitz. When she learns Jews are being exterminated by the thousands on the continent, she has no choice but to return to her mother city, risking her life to smuggle her family to freedom and peace.

Connecting across a century through one little girl, a Holocaust survivor with a foot in each world, these two women will discover a kinship that springs even in the darkest of times. In this tale of hope and survival, Sera and Kája must cling to the faith that sustains them and fight to protect all they hold dear–even if it means placing their own futures on the line.

Biography

Kristy Cambron has a background in art and design, but she fancies life as a vintage-inspired storyteller. She is the author of THE RINGMASTER'S WIFE, named to Publishers Weekly Spring 2016 Religion & Spirituality TOP 10. Her novels have been named to Library Journal Reviews' Best Books and RT Reviewers' Choice Awards Best lists, and received a 2015 INSPY Awards nomination for best debut novel. THE ILLUSIONIST'S APPRENTICE (HarperCollins, 2017) is her fourth novel.

Kristy holds a degree in Art History from Indiana University, and has 15 years experience in instructional design, corporate training, and communications for a Fortune-100 Corporation. Kristy lives in Indiana with her husband and three sons, where she can probably be bribed with a coconut mocha latte and a good read.

 

My thoughts ~

Kristy Cambron has produced another masterful novel that follows her highly acclaimed book, The Butterfly and the Violin!

As explained above in the description of the book, two young women are thrust into situations where neither woman can envision resolutions to their respective predicaments. Each character has incredible strength, is well defined and very likeable. The settings for each locale are remarkably depicted and as contrasting as conceivable. 

Heartbreaking and agonizing at times, my emotions ran the gamut between moments of happier times and the gruesome realities of the Holocaust. I'm very impressed once again! Ms. Cambron is an author that I will continue to follow. By all means, pick up copies of her books. You'll be swept away to a different time and place, and find yourself wondering why you've not read these books sooner! 

 

 

 

"The Butterfly and the Violin"

by Kristy Cambron

Description

A Mysterious painting breathes hope and beauty into the darkest corners of Auschwitz--and the loneliest hearts of Manhattan.

Manhattan art dealer Sera James watched her world crumble at the altar two years ago, and her heart is still fragile. Her desire for distraction reignites a passion for a mysterious portrait she first saw as a young girl--a painting of a young violinist with piercing blue eyes.

In her search for the painting, Sera crosses paths with William Hanover--the grandson of a wealthy California real estate mogul--who may be the key to uncovering the hidden masterpiece. Together Sera and William slowly unravel the story behind the painting's subject: Austrian violinist Adele Von Bron.

A darling of the Austrian aristocracy of 1942, talented violinist, and daughter to a high-ranking member of the Third Reich, Adele risks everything when she begins smuggling Jews out of Vienna. In a heartbeat, her life of prosperity and privilege dissolves into a world of starvation and barbed wire. As Sera untangles the secrets behind the painting, she finds beauty in the most unlikely of places: the grim camps of Auschwitz and the inner recesses of her own troubled heart.

Biography

Kristy Cambron has a background in art and design, but she fancies life as a vintage-inspired storyteller. She is the author of THE RINGMASTER'S WIFE, named to Publishers Weekly Spring 2016 Religion & Spirituality TOP 10. Her novels have been named to Library Journal Reviews' Best Books and RT Reviewers' Choice Awards Best lists, and received a 2015 INSPY Awards nomination for best debut novel. THE ILLUSIONIST'S APPRENTICE (HarperCollins, 2017) is her fourth novel.

Kristy is a Speaker and Design Manager at TheGROVEstory.com, and holds a degree in Art History from Indiana University. She lives in Indiana with her husband and three sons, where she can probably be bribed with a coconut mocha latte and a good read.

To stay connected, follow Kristy's Writing Desk Newsletter at: KristyCambron.com



My thoughts ~

The Butterfly and the Violin has received numerous rave reviews and countless recommendations.  I wasn't sure a book could measure up to the praise I'd seen. I have to say that this book went beyond my expectations. I was enraptured and captivated by this haunting masterpiece! My emotions were all over the place.

The story line transports the reader from present day New York to WWII Auschwitz and back throughout the novel. This parallel story is woven together by a highly desired portrait of a young woman, with only a copy of a painting, and no clues to where the original is located, or the name of the artist.

Characters are so realistically portrayed that I could feel their emotions through the written page. I lived the music as it was performed, with the rising pitches and tones of the orchestra and violinist. I can only imagine minute fragments of the agony of the Holocaust and the depression the detailing evoked. 

This is one of the most compelling and haunting novels I've read, and I must say that I will be following this author's future works. I am about to begin A Sparrow in Terezin with the hope that it also evokes the emotions and passion that is revealed in The Butterfly and the Violin. I highly recommend this masterpiece!
   

 

Interview with Vannetta Chapman,

Author of Sarah's Orphans

 

Welcome to my blog, Vannetta. I appreciate you taking the time to answer a few questions regarding Sarah's Orphans.

1.  Vannetta, I'd like to know what prompted you to use the bipolar disorder and the resulting abuse in this novel. I haven't seen any reference to it in other Amish fiction.
One of my goals in writing Amish fiction is to show Plain people are “normal” folks who share the same problems we all deal with. Many of us tend to look at their life as being perfect, but of course it’s not. I didn’t want to make that the main focus of the story. I did want to address it compassionately. Sarah has a lot to deal with, especially since she is recovering from an eating disorder. Hopefully this will help us all to relate to Sarah, because her life is certainly far from perfect.

 
2.  I'm also curious as to why the mother left her children, even though the abusive husband/father was deceased.
I felt that Sarah’s mother was overwhelmed. She’d also convinced herself that the children would be better off without her. The years of abuse and anxiety had crushed her spirit and she needed to go somewhere to heal. Since she doesn’t know how to ask for that, she simply leaves. By the end of the novel, we know that she is seeing a doctor and seeking help for her depression--but again, life isn’t perfect, and she’s still struggling.

 
3.  Sarah has her hands full with her own siblings. What inspired you to add two more children of Hispanic culture, and where are their parents?
Sarah does have her hands full, which I think many of us can relate to. Most of us have plenty to deal with--emotionally, financially, even physically. Yet Sarah sees these children in need and she understands what it feels like to be abandoned, what it feels like to be motherless. Her heart leads her into the journey that is Sarah’s Orphans.

As far as Mateo’s and Mia’s mother, she’s dealing with alcohol addiction. Part of the reason I wrote this story is to show there are children in need all around us. You might not adopt them--you might simply offer a kind word, or a ride to church, or an offer of financial help for school supplies or summer camp. We’re a community of believers, and we can do a lot to alleviate the suffering in our communities. Mateo and Mia bring joy into Sarah’s household. They are the reason that Sarah opens her heart to love and to a joyful future.


Links
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http://vannettachapman.com
https://twitter.com/VannettaChapman
https://www.facebook.com/VannettaChapmanBooks
https://www.instagram.com/vannettachapman/

Bio

Vannetta Chapman writes inspirational fiction full of grace, including romantic suspense and Amish romance novels. She is the author of seventeen novels, including the Pebble Creek Amish series, The Shipshewana Amish Mystery series and Anna’s Healing, a 2016 Christy Award finalist. Vannetta is a Carol award winner and also received more than two dozen awards from Romance Writers of America chapter groups.  She was a teacher for 15 years and currently resides in the Texas hill country. For more information, visit her at www.VannettaChapman.com.

Back cover copy


Orphaned…But Never Abandoned by God

Sarah Yoder belongs to a Plain community in Oklahoma, but her days are far from simple. Life suddenly gets complicated when a series of tragic events unfold, leaving her in charge of the household.

Alone with her younger siblings, Sarah is exhausted but finally at peace. Then she nearly runs over a small Hispanic boy with her buggy…and somehow finds herself sheltering two more orphans.

Paul Byler moved to Cody’s Creek to help his brother in a time of need. But now that Joseph has recovered from his heart attack, Paul’s ready for a quiet place of his own. The only problem? His new property lands him next door to the orphaned Yoder family—and a calling from God he can’t seem to ignore.

A story of extraordinary grace and love in the face of desperate need, Sarah’s Orphans is the third standalone novel in the Plain and Simple Miracles collection by Vannetta Chapman. 

Thank you so much for taking the time to enlighten me and my readers. I value your information. It adds to the interpretation of the topics in Sarah's Orphans, a beautiful story of grace, compassion, love and community.