Giveaway Winners
a Rafflecopter giveaway
And the giveaway is over! Congratulations to the winners, Laura and Dani!! You will both receive an email soon with the link to your new kindle book. :)
I would love to hear what you think of the book after you've read it!
And the giveaway is over! Congratulations to the winners, Laura and Dani!! You will both receive an email soon with the link to your new kindle book. :)
I would love to hear what you think of the book after you've read it!
New Release: The Painter's Daughter
This is my first review on one of author, Julie Klassen's books... but I can assure you, it won't be the last! I loved, loved, this book! :D
Book Title: The Painter's Daughter
Author: Julie Klassen
Publication Date: December 1, 2015
Publisher: Bethany House
Description:
Sophie Dupont, daughter of a portrait painter, assists her father in his studio, keeping her own artwork out of sight. She often walks the cliffside path along the north Devon coast, popular with artists and poets. It's where she met the handsome Wesley Overtree, the first man to tell her she's beautiful.
Captain Stephen Overtree is accustomed to taking on his brother's neglected duties. Home on leave, he's sent to find Wesley. Knowing his brother rented a cottage from a fellow painter, he travels to Devonshire and meets Miss Dupont, the painter's daughter. He's startled to recognize her from a miniature portrait he carries with him--one of Wesley's discarded works. But his happiness plummets when he realizes Wesley has left her with child and sailed away to Italy in search of a new muse.
Wanting to do something worthwhile with his life, Stephen proposes to Sophie. He does not offer love, or even a future together, but he can save her from scandal. If he dies in battle, as he believes he will, she'll be a respectable widow with the protection of his family.
Desperate for a way to escape her predicament, Sophie agrees to marry a stranger and travel to his family's estate. But at Overtree Hall, her problems are just beginning. Will she regret marrying Captain Overtree when a repentant Wesley returns? Or will she find herself torn between the father of her child and her growing affection for the husband she barely knows?
My Review:
I had heard of Julie Klassen before but for some reason I was never interested in her books. I don't know why seeing they're in the same genre of books I like to read and they're published by my favorite publisher, Bethany House.
I finally decided to give them a try, starting with her newest book, The Painter's Daughter, after continually hearing so many good things about the author and her books.
I am so thankful that I did! I loved this book! It was completely captivating. There wasn't a segment that I didn't thoroughly enjoy. From the first chapter, when you are introduced to the world of Sophia Dupont you will commit to joining her in her journey; because you'll just have to know how the story ends. :) -A must read for any romance lover.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Note: I received this book through NetGalley. http://netgalley.
Author: Julie Klassen
Publication Date: December 1, 2015
Publisher: Bethany House
Description:
Sophie Dupont, daughter of a portrait painter, assists her father in his studio, keeping her own artwork out of sight. She often walks the cliffside path along the north Devon coast, popular with artists and poets. It's where she met the handsome Wesley Overtree, the first man to tell her she's beautiful.
Captain Stephen Overtree is accustomed to taking on his brother's neglected duties. Home on leave, he's sent to find Wesley. Knowing his brother rented a cottage from a fellow painter, he travels to Devonshire and meets Miss Dupont, the painter's daughter. He's startled to recognize her from a miniature portrait he carries with him--one of Wesley's discarded works. But his happiness plummets when he realizes Wesley has left her with child and sailed away to Italy in search of a new muse.
Wanting to do something worthwhile with his life, Stephen proposes to Sophie. He does not offer love, or even a future together, but he can save her from scandal. If he dies in battle, as he believes he will, she'll be a respectable widow with the protection of his family.
Desperate for a way to escape her predicament, Sophie agrees to marry a stranger and travel to his family's estate. But at Overtree Hall, her problems are just beginning. Will she regret marrying Captain Overtree when a repentant Wesley returns? Or will she find herself torn between the father of her child and her growing affection for the husband she barely knows?
My Review:
I had heard of Julie Klassen before but for some reason I was never interested in her books. I don't know why seeing they're in the same genre of books I like to read and they're published by my favorite publisher, Bethany House.
I finally decided to give them a try, starting with her newest book, The Painter's Daughter, after continually hearing so many good things about the author and her books.
I am so thankful that I did! I loved this book! It was completely captivating. There wasn't a segment that I didn't thoroughly enjoy. From the first chapter, when you are introduced to the world of Sophia Dupont you will commit to joining her in her journey; because you'll just have to know how the story ends. :) -A must read for any romance lover.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Note: I received this book through NetGalley. http://netgalley.
Interview with Becky Wade
About Becky Wade:
During her childhood in California, Becky frequently produced homemade plays starring her sisters, friends, and cousins. These plays almost always featured a heroine, a prince, and a love story with a happy ending. She's been a fan of all things romantic ever since.
Becky and her husband lived overseas in the Caribbean and Australia before settling in Dallas, Texas. It was during her years abroad that Becky's passion for reading turned into a passion for writing. She published three historical romances for the general market, put her career on hold for many years to care for her kids, and eventually returned to writing sheerly for the love of it. She’s delighted to be penning warm, wry, and heartwarming contemporary romances for the Christian market. She's the Carol Award, INSPY Award, and Inspirational Reader's Choice Award winning author of My Stubborn Heart, Undeniably Yours, Meant to Be Mine, and A Love Like Ours.
These days Becky can be found failing but trying to keep up with her housework, sweating at the gym, carting her kids around town, playing tennis, hunched over her computer, eating chocolate, or collapsed on the sofa watching TV with her husband.
Interview
Which actor and actress would you choose to play the part of Will and Amber (from The Proposal)?Maybe Mila Kunis and Daniel Craig? I'd choose those two because they most resemble the Amber and Will of my imagination.
Where do you get the inspiration for your characters (their personality, looks, circumstances, etc,.)?
My inspiration comes from lots of different places! For example, Matt from My Stubborn Heart sprang from my desire to write about a hero who'd lost his wife. Jake from A Love Like Ours came out of information I'd seen and read about veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Sometimes, I'll see a photograph or someone on TV and think, "Oh! I could write a character like that." Sometimes inspiration arises from a story I hear or from real life experiences of friends and family.
I love them all. I have a special fondness for Ty Porter from Meant to Be Mine, simply because he was so much fun to write. He's very charming and confident and he strode onto the page full-blown and spouting dialogue.
How does your faith influence your books?
My faith is the reason I write! I do this job because I believe the Lord has called me to it. He's the one who enables and equips me to pen novels. My truest hope is to bring Him glory through the books and encourage readers in the process.
What do you find to be the hardest thing about being an author?
The writing of the first draft. The more you know about the craft of writing, the more extraordinarily complex you realize it is. That first draft is very difficult work at times.
What is your favorite thing about being an author?
Completing a project! My deepest satisfaction comes from finishing the work that God asked me to do.
Do you ever get writer’s block?
I hit very challenging patches, but I always make myself forge forward.
What does a typical day look like for you?
I take my kids to school, work on the non-writing aspects of my job (like email/social media/blogging), clean my house, exercise, write, pick up my kids from school. I spend the afternoons driving kids around town, or running errands, or cooking, or (sometimes) fitting in more writing.
What are two things that people might be surprised to know about you?
#1: I can't watch the tense/edge-of-your-seat type movies or TV shows that my husband loves. They make me too anxious!
#2: I'm not a morning person. I do best when I can roll out of bed around 9 (which almost never happens).
What's your favorite book & favorite movie?
This last year, I really, really enjoyed What Alice Forgot by Australian general market author Liane Moriarty and the movie Austenland.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
A ballerina.
What three adjectives would your family/friends use to describe you?
Reliable. Kind. Frazzled.
A big thank you to Becky Wade!! I have been blessed by your books
and I'm sure many others can say the same. :)
The night before Christmas... Giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Welcome to The night before Christmas Giveaway! To celebrate this holiday season The Booklover's Tranquility is giving away two kindle books!
Enter for a chance to win Michael Landon Jr.'s Traces of Mercy and Finding Mercy. The giveaway starts December 7th and ends on the 21st. At the end of that time two random winners will be selected.
Good luck to all!
Traces of Mercy
At the war’s end, a young woman suffers an accident that leaves her unconscious and alone. Waking with amnesia, she takes the name Mercy and wants more than anything to find out the truth of her past. But then a handsome stranger arrives, who may hold the key to everything she has forgotten. What he knows could devastate her future, and even end her life.
Written by two proven storytellers, Traces of Mercy is perfect for anyone who loves historical fiction, prairie-based tales, or just a good romance.
Finding Mercy
When Mercy abandons Captain Elijah Hale to search for her true identity, he goes after her. With the threat that bounty hunters might be hot on her trail, Mercy does all she can to stay ahead of the danger, frustrating both the bad men who are after her—and Captain Hale who wants to find her and escort her safely home. But when she stumbles upon clues that help her learn who she is and where she's from, the danger escalates and she has to learn to keep her friends close and her enemies even closer—if she can determine which is which!
This is historical romance with a blend of intrigue from beloved storytellers renowned for their work in film and print.
This is historical romance with a blend of intrigue from beloved storytellers renowned for their work in film and print.
Christmas Special / The Proposal
Author: Becky Wade
Publication Date: December 4, 2015 (that's today! :)
Description:
A cold night in Texas, a dream of marriage, a happily ever after....
Single mom Amber Richardson spends every holiday season working to give her young son the best Christmas possible and striving to ignore the empty chairs around her table, chairs she wishes her mother and father and extended family occupied.
She'd hoped that this holiday would be fuller and happier than the rest. Her handsome firefighter boyfriend, Will McGrath, has brought immeasurable joy and love into her life. Up until recently, they'd even been talking about a future that included wedding bells. Lately, though, the wedding talk has been nonexistent and Amber can’t help but worry that Will's starting to have second thoughts....
Until a fire station surprise brings very good tidings.
My Review:
I was really surprised that this book was as short as it was. I suspected it to be short like a novella but not twenty-five pages. If you haven't read any of the books in Becky Wade's Porter Family Series than this story might not hold that much interest with you. Because unless you are already familiar with Amber Richardson, her son Jayden, and Will McGrath you will not grasp half of the meaningness. From the first moment that you meet Amber in Undeniabley Yours, book 1 of the Porter Family Series, you will be anxious for her to have a happy ending too. The Proposal satisfies that desire.
Written in expressive detail, this Christmas short is sure to get you in the romantic Christmas mood. After all, who wouldn't want to be proposed to just before Christmas? ;) -a perfect way to sum up the story of two individuals you had fallen in love with.
My Rating:⭐⭐⭐
Note: I received this e-book by subscribing to Becky Wade's mailing list...
Christmas Specials
As Christmas is getting to be right around the corner I thought I'd do something special for the holdiay. To start off, I'm posting my review of Becky Wade's newest release, The Proposal; a short Christmas story about Amber Richardson who we've met before in the Porter Family Series.
That may not seem very special but just hold on, that's not all. We are also having an author interview with Becky Wade! Ever since I read my first book of her's I've wanted to get to know her more and now you can too!
And to top it off, The Booklover's Tranquility is hosting a giveway!! You will have the chance to win some of my most favorites books, Traces of Mercy and Finding Mercy by Michael Landon Jr. and Cindy Kelley. The giveaway starts on the 7th and ends on the 21st of this month so be sure to check back here within that time.
Let the festivities begin! :D
New Release: Bathsheba
Author: Angela Hunt
Publication Date: August 25, 2015
Publisher: Bethany House
Description:
One of Ancient Israel's Most Famous Women--
As You've Never Looked at Her Before
One of the Bible's most misunderstood and misjudged women, Bathsheba comes to life in this new biblical reimagining from Angela Hunt. Combining historical facts with detailed fiction, this is an eye-opening portrait that will have you reconsidering everything you thought you knew about her.
After receiving God's promise of a lifelong reign and an eternal dynasty, King David forces himself on Bathsheba, a loyal soldier's wife. When her resulting pregnancy forces the king to murder her husband and add her to his harem, Bathsheba struggles to protect her son while dealing with the effects of a dark prophecy and deadly curse on the king's household.
My Review:
The story of David and Bathsheba is pretty well known to everyone. I thought I knew the story almost by heart but reading Angela Hunt's, Bathsheba made me realize how little I really knew about it. What I love most about Hunt's books is the way she sticks to the truth. I learned so many new details about Bathsheba that I hadn't known before but they weren't just made up.
Reading this book made me look at the story of David and Bathsheba in a whole new light. Actually, it made me look at a bunch of things differently. Like why Absalom, and the rest of David's children, turned out the way they did, what life in the palace might have really been like, how it must have felt being one of David's many wives,..
The scenes were well-written and full of vivid detail. The plot was enthralling, you couldn't just stop with one chapter. Every aspect of this book was great...definitely a thumbs-up in my opinion.
My Rating:⭐⭐⭐⭐
Note: I received this book through NetGalley. http://netgalley.
New Releases: Until the Dawn
Author: Elizabeth Camden
Publication Date: December 1, 2015
Publisher: Bethany House
Description:
Fascinated by Dierenpark, an abandoned mansion high atop a windswept cliff in the Hudson River Valley, Sophie van Riijn sees no harm in setting up a rooftop weather station for her work with the newly established Weather Bureau. While the villagers are suspicious of the mysterious estate and its tragic history, Sophie has come to see it as her own enchanted piece of paradise.
The first Vandermark to return to the area in sixty years, Quentin intends to put an end to the shadowy rumors about the property that has brought nothing but trouble upon his family. Ready to tear down the mansion, he is furious to discover Sophie trespassing on his land.
Instantly at odds, Quentin and Sophie yet find common ground when she is the only one who can reach his troubled son. There's a light within Sophie that Quentin has never known, and a small spark of the hope that left him years ago begins to grow. But when the secrets of Dierenpark can no longer be kept in the past, will tragedy triumph or can their tenuous hope prevail?
My Review:
After reading an excerpt of this book I knew that I just had to read the whole thing! A romance between a woman and the man who's about to destroy everything she holds dear...totally irresistible. Also, being a big fan of all of Elizabeth Camden's books I figured I was guaranteed to love it!
Sophie van Riijn is probably one of my favorite book heroines. I loved her! She had such a sweet spirit and yet a determination to make her dreams a reality. Quentin, at first a miserable grump, can't help but be affected by Sophie's optimism and cheerfulness. I appreciated the strong Christian message throughout. A self-proclaimed atheist and firm believer in science, Quentin is persuaded by Sophie's influence to see Christianity in a whole new light.
I also found it interesting to get a glimpse of weather forecasting in it's earliest stages. You might not think it's that interesting of a time period to base a book on but Elizabeth Camden did a wonderful job creating a completely invigorating book.
My Rating:⭐⭐⭐⭐
Note: I received this book through NetGalley. http://netgalley.
Read an excerpt of Until the Dawn HERE
New Releases: Love in the Details
Did you know that Thanksgiving is ranked as the third most celebrated holiday in America? (Christmas and Halloween being first and second) Most people just think of the food but the word thanksgiving actually means: a day set apart for giving thanks to God. This is what the day was originally created for in 1621 and how we should still celebrate it today. After all, when you've been blessed with so much (salvation, eternal life, family, friends...) isn't it only right to thank the one responsible?
Today, I am especially thankful for gift of speech. It may seem a weird thing to be thankful for but I recently came down with laryngitis and not being able to talk is AWFUL! I never realized what a blessing it is to have a voice until I lost it. It always works that way, doesn't it?
Book Title: Love in the Details
Author: Becky Wade
Publication Date: October 27, 2015
Publisher: Zondervan
Description:
Holly ended things to give him a better life, but she was the future he’d always dreamed of.
Eight years have passed since Holly last saw her high school sweetheart, Josh. Now the wedding of Josh’s best friend has brought him back to Martinsburg, Texas. His duties as best man and Holly's as the church's volunteer wedding coordinator link them together. As they work behind the scenes to plan a beautiful November wedding for their friends, they're forced to confront painful reminders of what might have been.
Holly broke up with Josh all those years ago in an attempt to ensure his future success. However, she never told him the true reason behind her actions and now must decide whether to keep her secret hidden. She's terrified of letting herself fall for him because she barely managed to piece her life back together after losing him the last time.
Not a day's gone by since Josh parted from Holly that he hasn't thought about her. The pain of the past eight years has been too much to bear and he doesn't want to make himself vulnerable to her again. But the more time he spends with her, the harder it is to deny the love he still has for her.
Will Josh and Holly risk their hearts on the hope that God's timing really can be best?
My Review:
For being a novella this book was very well-written. It takes a talented author to be able to write all the necessary details and characters' backgrounds in so few pages. Many novellas I find don't have the depth a full length novel has but Love in the Details was just as entertaining of a read.
I liked how the story portrayed Holly and Josh as already having a romance in the past. The previous love helped move the story along without it feeling rushed. Holly, was an engaging character and I liked her from the beginning. Josh wasn't my favorite guy but he was still likable. That was probably the only thing I didn't care for in the book and it wasn't that big of a deal for me.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Note: I received this book through NetGalley. http://netgalley.
Today, I am especially thankful for gift of speech. It may seem a weird thing to be thankful for but I recently came down with laryngitis and not being able to talk is AWFUL! I never realized what a blessing it is to have a voice until I lost it. It always works that way, doesn't it?
What is one thing that you are thankful for today?
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| This quote is available as an iPod Wallpaper HERE |
Author: Becky Wade
Publication Date: October 27, 2015
Publisher: Zondervan
Description:
Holly ended things to give him a better life, but she was the future he’d always dreamed of.
Eight years have passed since Holly last saw her high school sweetheart, Josh. Now the wedding of Josh’s best friend has brought him back to Martinsburg, Texas. His duties as best man and Holly's as the church's volunteer wedding coordinator link them together. As they work behind the scenes to plan a beautiful November wedding for their friends, they're forced to confront painful reminders of what might have been.
Holly broke up with Josh all those years ago in an attempt to ensure his future success. However, she never told him the true reason behind her actions and now must decide whether to keep her secret hidden. She's terrified of letting herself fall for him because she barely managed to piece her life back together after losing him the last time.
Not a day's gone by since Josh parted from Holly that he hasn't thought about her. The pain of the past eight years has been too much to bear and he doesn't want to make himself vulnerable to her again. But the more time he spends with her, the harder it is to deny the love he still has for her.
Will Josh and Holly risk their hearts on the hope that God's timing really can be best?
My Review:
For being a novella this book was very well-written. It takes a talented author to be able to write all the necessary details and characters' backgrounds in so few pages. Many novellas I find don't have the depth a full length novel has but Love in the Details was just as entertaining of a read.
I liked how the story portrayed Holly and Josh as already having a romance in the past. The previous love helped move the story along without it feeling rushed. Holly, was an engaging character and I liked her from the beginning. Josh wasn't my favorite guy but he was still likable. That was probably the only thing I didn't care for in the book and it wasn't that big of a deal for me.
"If you're looking for a short romantic read this is the novella for you"
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Note: I received this book through NetGalley. http://netgalley.
Random Novel / Miracles
Author: Joanie Hileman
Description:
A dying child counts angels in her room. A teenage boy stuns doctors by recovering from a massive brain injury. A bubble of protection surrounds a man about to be hit by a car...These miraculous accounts and twenty-nine more are recorded in Miracles: 32 True Stories.
My Review:
I love reading true accounts of miracles! It's always such an inspiring topic because it strengthens my belief that my God is a God of wonder, power, and love.
The author mentioned in the beginning of the book that she is not a writer, merely a person who felt lead to make known the accounts of miraculous interventions. I could tell by some of the stories that she was not a professional writer but I felt that the stories were told in an entertaining manner anyway.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
New Releases: Fire and Ice
Book Title: Fire and IcePublication Date: September 29, 2015
Publisher: Bethany House
Description:
Saddle up for mysteries and laughs with the Wilde sisters!
Bailey Wilde is the oldest sister--and the one who takes care of everyone else in her family. But after her sisters marry and move away, her little homestead becomes bleak and lonely, especially during the long winter months. In a moment of weakness, Bailey agrees to a wild plan concocted by her neighbor, Gage Coulter.
Gage is an honest man, but he didn't make his fortune by being weak. He won't break the law, but he'll push as hard as he can within it. Five thousand acres of excellent grazing land is lost to him because Bailey's homestead is located right across the entrance to a canyon full of lush grass. Gage has to regain access to this land--and he's got to go through Bailey to do it. So he makes a proposal...
Can these two independent, life-toughened homesteaders finally loosen up enough to earn each other's respect--and maybe find love in the process?
My Review:
Mary Connealy is an author whose talent lies in writing books guaranteed to make the reader laugh. The conversations and interactions of the two characters, Gage and Bailey are hilarious to read about. From the moment you step into the story, with bullets whizzing, until the very last page your attention is sure to be captivated. I know I was. It was definitely a struggle to put the book down; so much so, that I almost read it all in one day.
If you're looking for a book with a western theme, small-scale mystery, comical characters, and a romance sure to make you chuckle, Fire and Ice is the one for you.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Note: I received this book through NetGalley. http://netgalley.
Interview with Lisa Tawn Bergren
I am super excited about posting this interview. Lisa Tawn Bergren is an author that will always hold a special place in my heart. It was her River of Time Series that got me hooked on books and those were the first books I reviewed on this blog.
Hope you will enjoy learning more about this amazing author as much as I did! P.S. I'd definitely recommend you to look up her books... :)
Where do you get the inspiration for your characters (their personality, looks, circumstances, etc,.)?
What’s the next book you're writing?
Hope you will enjoy learning more about this amazing author as much as I did! P.S. I'd definitely recommend you to look up her books... :)
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| Author, Lisa Tawn Bergren |
It all starts with a name. The right name seems to automatically give me a picture of each of them; but sometimes I find pics in magazines and then match a name to the model. Then I move into backstory--what made them who they are today.
Do you have a favorite male and/or female character from your books?
Lord Greco from River of Time--because he surprised me. He was supposed to be the bad guy and yet I feel a little in love with him. Gabi from River, and Andriana from Remnants are faves too; I think I always “become” the heroine in my novels so I can feel whatever they’re feeling, experience whatever they’re experiencing, etc.
Out of all the books you’ve written, do you have a favorite?
THE BEGOTTEN. Medieval. Italy. Epic, spiritual suspense. Enough said?
How does your faith influence your books?
For me, faith is a part of my whole life, so to not include some aspect of faith--even a little--would seem like it was missing a piece. I never try to preach. Just bring up the spiritual when it makes sense for the character/story.
Do you find it difficult to write dystopian-fantasy novels?
Difficult, no. Challenging, yes. Before REMNANTS, I’d always written contemporary or historical series. Creating a world from scratch, with no basis (either in personal knowledge or history books) was hard.
What message do you hope your readers get out of your books?
No matter what I write, I hope readers come away with a deeper sense of love.
What do you find to be the hardest thing about being an author?
Getting my butt in the chair to write.
What is your favorite thing about being an author?
Making stuff up and getting paid for it.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Rise at 7am. Coffee. Walk the dog. Shower. Facebook. Emails. Write. Work on ducks (RMrustic.com--our family business). Lunch. Grocery shop. More ducks. Facebook. More emails. Chill with the family. National news at 5:30. Dinner. Sleep by 10pm. zzzzz
What are two things that people might be surprised to know about you?
I’m an introvert and homebody. I’m perfectly content to be with just my family for days at a time.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
A teacher.
What’s the next book you're writing?
THREE WISHES: A River of Time California Novel (time-slip romance)
Thank you so much, Lisa Tawn Bergren for taking the time to do this interview!! I can't wait for your next books, Three Wishes and Remnants: Season of Glory. I'm so excited to know you're doing another time travel novel! <3 <3
A Girl After God's Own Heart
This book is not in our Bright Lights Lending Library but I'd definitely recommend it for Bright Lights girls to read...
Book Title: A Girl After God's Own Heart - A Tween Adventure with Jesus
Author: Elizabeth George
Description:
Live out your dreams as you become a girl after God's own heart!
Homework! Friends! Activities! Parents! The life of a tween girl is full of so much action--and sometimes so much confusion! How can I find a real best friend? How can I get along with my brothers and sisters? How can I make time in my busy life for Jesus? How can I know the right things to say and do--especially when I keep messing up?
As you set out on this fun adventure with Jesus, you'll learn what it means to be a girl after God's own heart--a girl who loves Him and follows Him by...
My Review:
A Girl After God's Own Heart is a great books for girls who desire to grow closer to Jesus. With just ten chapters this book makes for a great Bible study book. Each lesson is written in a fun and short, easy-to-read manner that you'll be sure to enjoy. As you read through this book you will be encouraged in your walk with Christ and inspired to live the life that God designed you for. --a must read book for all young girls.
Author: Elizabeth George
Description:
Live out your dreams as you become a girl after God's own heart!
Homework! Friends! Activities! Parents! The life of a tween girl is full of so much action--and sometimes so much confusion! How can I find a real best friend? How can I get along with my brothers and sisters? How can I make time in my busy life for Jesus? How can I know the right things to say and do--especially when I keep messing up?
As you set out on this fun adventure with Jesus, you'll learn what it means to be a girl after God's own heart--a girl who loves Him and follows Him by...
- growing in love for your family and your friends--even when it seems like you're all alone
- growing in wisdom as you learn to make good choices and fewer mistakes
- growing in grace as you face the things that are hard--from friendships, to schoolwork, to doubts about yourself
- growing in joy as you fall more and more in love with Jesus
My Review:
A Girl After God's Own Heart is a great books for girls who desire to grow closer to Jesus. With just ten chapters this book makes for a great Bible study book. Each lesson is written in a fun and short, easy-to-read manner that you'll be sure to enjoy. As you read through this book you will be encouraged in your walk with Christ and inspired to live the life that God designed you for. --a must read book for all young girls.
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| More books in the After God's Own Heart Series by Elizabeth George |
Remnants / Book 2
Series: Remnants (Book 2)
Author: Lisa Tawn Bergren
Description:
After tackling her first mission and coming to terms with her power of empathy, Andriana discovers her first battles were only a taste of what is to come. She and her knight, Ronan, have admitted their feelings for each other, but their bonds are tested when Dri is captured by their mortal and spiritual enemy—Sethos—and his master, Keallach, emperor of Pacifica. Andriana is certain Keallach can be convinced to follow the Maker's plan and join the other Remnants … but in time, she must decide whether she really can pull him back to the Way, or if Sethos's web of darkness has slowly and thoroughly trapped them both … forever.
My Review:
Lisa Tawn Bergren has done it again... Remnants: Season of Fire is a totally outstanding book! If I were judge I'd give it the #1 best book of the year award. :)
I loved everything about this book. The plot, the excitement, the enamoring characters, EVERYTHING! I was captivated with every word. The scenes were vivid and in engaging details. I felt like I was actually there in the future with Andriana and the rest of the Remnants and Knights. This book would make an awesome movie!
--My one and only suggestion would be to add the last chapter of the first book as a prologue for this book. You are kinda left hanging in the first book and unless you read them one after another you'll have a hard time remembering where you had left off at.
I will have a hard time waiting for the next book to come out. March of 2016 won't be able to come soon enough for my liking. :P
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Be on the lookout for an interview with the author, Lisa Tawn Bergren next week!!
Remnants / Book 1
I just recently realized that I haven't done any weekly book reviews for awhile... So I decided to pick another series and came up with Lisa Tawn Bergren's Remnants Series. It's a different genre then I usually go with, being a sci-fi / dystopian, but I enjoyed reading the books in this series just as much, if not more.
Book Title: Remnants: Season of Wonder
Series: Remnants (Book 1)
Author: Lisa Tawn Bergren
Description:
In the first novel of this YA futuristic/dystopian series by Lisa T. Bergren, gifted teens known as Remnants have been chosen and trained to act as humanity’s last hope to rectify the horrors that are part of everyday life in 2095.
Their arrival was foretold for years...
Andriana is a Remnant, gifted as an empath and one of the Ailith, destined to act as humanity’s last shield against the horrors that now plague those who remain.
After years of training in stealth and warfare, Andriana and her Knight protector, Ronan, are finally ready to answer the Call and begin the life they were designed for. But as they embark with the other Remnants on the first of their assignments, they quickly discover that the world beyond their protected Valley is more dangerous than they imagined.
The Sons of Sheol will stop at nothing to prevent Dri and Ronan from rescuing anyone sympathetic to the Remnants’ cause. And as the Remnants battle the demonic forces, still other enemies close in. Dangers intensity, but so do Dri’s feelings for Ronan–the one emotion she is not meant to feel. In the midst of their mission, Andriana must find a way to master her feelings. Or risk compromising everything . . .
My Review:
As much as I love sci-fi movies I've never cared for books of that genre so I was a little hesitant picking up this book. I probably wouldn't have been interested in this series if I hadn't LOVED Lisa T. Bergren's River of Time Series as much as I did. I figured if anyone could make a fantasy book that I'd enjoy Lisa T. Bergren would be the one.
It took me the first couple chapters to understand all that was going on but after that...I was hooked! The author writes with such detail to the surroundings that I felt as if I was watching a movie. Often, I find descriptions to be somewhat drab and my eyes try to skip over those large portions but not with this book; I was captivated with every word written!
I loved the camaraderie of the knights and remnants. Even in the most trying situations they are still striving to work together as a team for the benefit of the Maker. Each of the characters had a unique personality that made me love them. Andriana, the heroine, I connected to the most. She had traits that made me feel as if we were alike. I even felt Andriana's confusion because I as well couldn't help but like the "bad guy" just a little.
If you like a book with action, mystique, an ever-changing plot, and characters worthy of a book crush...Remnants: Season of Wonder is definitely the book for you.
My Rating:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hope you are enjoying the beautiful Fall weather!
Series: Remnants (Book 1)
Author: Lisa Tawn Bergren
Description:
In the first novel of this YA futuristic/dystopian series by Lisa T. Bergren, gifted teens known as Remnants have been chosen and trained to act as humanity’s last hope to rectify the horrors that are part of everyday life in 2095.
Their arrival was foretold for years...
Andriana is a Remnant, gifted as an empath and one of the Ailith, destined to act as humanity’s last shield against the horrors that now plague those who remain.
After years of training in stealth and warfare, Andriana and her Knight protector, Ronan, are finally ready to answer the Call and begin the life they were designed for. But as they embark with the other Remnants on the first of their assignments, they quickly discover that the world beyond their protected Valley is more dangerous than they imagined.
The Sons of Sheol will stop at nothing to prevent Dri and Ronan from rescuing anyone sympathetic to the Remnants’ cause. And as the Remnants battle the demonic forces, still other enemies close in. Dangers intensity, but so do Dri’s feelings for Ronan–the one emotion she is not meant to feel. In the midst of their mission, Andriana must find a way to master her feelings. Or risk compromising everything . . .
My Review:
As much as I love sci-fi movies I've never cared for books of that genre so I was a little hesitant picking up this book. I probably wouldn't have been interested in this series if I hadn't LOVED Lisa T. Bergren's River of Time Series as much as I did. I figured if anyone could make a fantasy book that I'd enjoy Lisa T. Bergren would be the one.
It took me the first couple chapters to understand all that was going on but after that...I was hooked! The author writes with such detail to the surroundings that I felt as if I was watching a movie. Often, I find descriptions to be somewhat drab and my eyes try to skip over those large portions but not with this book; I was captivated with every word written!
I loved the camaraderie of the knights and remnants. Even in the most trying situations they are still striving to work together as a team for the benefit of the Maker. Each of the characters had a unique personality that made me love them. Andriana, the heroine, I connected to the most. She had traits that made me feel as if we were alike. I even felt Andriana's confusion because I as well couldn't help but like the "bad guy" just a little.
If you like a book with action, mystique, an ever-changing plot, and characters worthy of a book crush...Remnants: Season of Wonder is definitely the book for you.
My Rating:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
New Releases: Last Chance Hero
(Book 4 in A Place to Call Home Series)
Publication Date: September 8, 2015
Publisher: Revell
Description:
The inhabitants of Last Chance, New Mexico, could not be more pleased. Dr. Jessica McLeod has opened an office right on Main Street. Andy Ryan, the best athlete the little town ever produced, has ended his short career in the NFL and has come home to coach the mighty Pumas of Last Chance High. Unfortunately, Dr. Jess immediately gets off on the wrong foot when she admits that she's never seen a football game, isn't really interested in doing so, and, in fact, doesn't know a first down from a home run. Meanwhile, Coach Ryan is discovering that it's not easy to balance atop the pedestal the town has put him on. When this unlikely pair is drawn together over the future of a young player--whose gifts may lie in the laboratory rather than on the football field--they begin to wonder if they might have a future together as well.
My Review:
As much as I'd enjoyed the other books in A Place to Call Home Series I found this new addition to be somewhat dry. I didn't especially love the characters or the plot. It seemed that it was all about football and while I've enjoyed many books that have a strong football presence this one was kinda blah for me. Jess, the heroine, had never gone to a football game and wasn't interested in the sport. I connected with her in that aspect but otherwise I didn't feel like there was much depth to her. I felt that over half the conversations were spent in trying to convince Jess to like football. Maybe, if you're really into that sport this book will be for you.
Also, this book really left you hanging. It was like the author reached it's deadline and just ended the book. Andy and Jess's relationship had barely begun. The book actually ended on their first official date! I was shocked when I turned the page and that was the end. There were still issues that were left unsettled; like Jess's faith, or the Anderson's family situation...
I enjoyed the first two books in this series but the last two have disappointed me and I don't think I'll continue reading this series.
My Rating: ⭐⭐
Note: I received this book through NetGalley. http://netgalley.
New Releases: Whispers in the Reading Room
What was your favorite book that you read this month? For myself, I'd have to say Remnants: Season of Wonder by Lisa Tawn Bergren. I wasn't sure I would enjoy reading a dystopian / fantasy novel but I'm glad I dared to give it a shot. It was awesome! (I'll be reviewing it soon. :)
Title: Whispers in the Reading Room
Publication Date: November 10, 2015
Publisher: Zondervan
Description:
Lydia’s job at the library is her world—until a mysterious patron catches her eye . . . and perhaps her heart.
Just months after the closure of the Chicago World’s Fair, librarian Lydia Bancroft finds herself fascinated by a mysterious dark-haired and dark-eyed patron. He has never given her his name; he actually never speaks to a single person. All she knows about him is that he loves books as much as she does.
Only when he rescues her in the lobby of the Hartman Hotel does she discover that his name is Sebastian Marks. She also discovers that he lives at the top of the prestigious hotel and that most everyone in Chicago is intrigued by him.
Lydia and Sebastian form a fragile friendship, but when she discovers that Mr. Marks isn’t merely a very wealthy gentleman, but also the proprietor of an infamous saloon and gambling club, she is shocked.
Lydia insists on visiting the club one fateful night and suddenly is a suspect to a murder. She must determine who she can trust, who is innocent, and if Sebastian Marks—the man so many people fear—is actually everything her heart believes him to be.
My Review:
Whispers in the Reading Room is a novel full of adventure, excitement, and romance. You will be captivated from the beginning till the very end.
My favorite thing about this book was the plot. After reading the description I knew this would be a book I'd enjoy. I was curious to know what Lydia's reaction would be to finding out the truth about Sebastian.
One of the negative thoughts I had for this book was I felt that Lydia was so eager for adventure she threw aside some of her standards of right and wrong. Not so much when she went to the club to understand more about Sebastian but other little things she did. Like, breaking into the old building of the Chicago World's Fair... She knew it was wrong yet she did it anyways because she wanted too.
"...She realized he was enjoying the wickedness of it all. He liked that they were somewhere forbidden. He liked that they were standing somewhere that broke every rule of both society and its laws. As for her? She liked it too. After a lifetime of merely exisiting in her world of books, she liked actually living..." (from Whispers in the Reading Room) Why did it take breaking laws to make Lydia feel as if she's actually living? I didn't really understand that point....
Besides that though, I still enjoyed the book. I liked the characters, the details that seemed to come alive, and the small adventures throughout.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Note: I received this book through NetGalley. http://netgalley.
Publication Date: November 10, 2015
Publisher: Zondervan
Description:
Lydia’s job at the library is her world—until a mysterious patron catches her eye . . . and perhaps her heart.
Just months after the closure of the Chicago World’s Fair, librarian Lydia Bancroft finds herself fascinated by a mysterious dark-haired and dark-eyed patron. He has never given her his name; he actually never speaks to a single person. All she knows about him is that he loves books as much as she does.
Only when he rescues her in the lobby of the Hartman Hotel does she discover that his name is Sebastian Marks. She also discovers that he lives at the top of the prestigious hotel and that most everyone in Chicago is intrigued by him.
Lydia and Sebastian form a fragile friendship, but when she discovers that Mr. Marks isn’t merely a very wealthy gentleman, but also the proprietor of an infamous saloon and gambling club, she is shocked.
Lydia insists on visiting the club one fateful night and suddenly is a suspect to a murder. She must determine who she can trust, who is innocent, and if Sebastian Marks—the man so many people fear—is actually everything her heart believes him to be.
My Review:
Whispers in the Reading Room is a novel full of adventure, excitement, and romance. You will be captivated from the beginning till the very end.
My favorite thing about this book was the plot. After reading the description I knew this would be a book I'd enjoy. I was curious to know what Lydia's reaction would be to finding out the truth about Sebastian.
One of the negative thoughts I had for this book was I felt that Lydia was so eager for adventure she threw aside some of her standards of right and wrong. Not so much when she went to the club to understand more about Sebastian but other little things she did. Like, breaking into the old building of the Chicago World's Fair... She knew it was wrong yet she did it anyways because she wanted too.
"...She realized he was enjoying the wickedness of it all. He liked that they were somewhere forbidden. He liked that they were standing somewhere that broke every rule of both society and its laws. As for her? She liked it too. After a lifetime of merely exisiting in her world of books, she liked actually living..." (from Whispers in the Reading Room) Why did it take breaking laws to make Lydia feel as if she's actually living? I didn't really understand that point....
Besides that though, I still enjoyed the book. I liked the characters, the details that seemed to come alive, and the small adventures throughout.
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Note: I received this book through NetGalley. http://netgalley.
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