Waiting for Christmas by Lynn Austin ~ a book review

 

If you are looking for a feel-good story to get you in the Christmas spirit, look no further!  This story touched my heart because it reminded me of circumstances in my family history. 

The main characters, Adelaide and Howard, are newlyweds.  Adelaide comes from a wealthy family upbringing with servants and maids at her disposal.  She marries Howard and moves into a nice home in Manhattan but without the convenience of a household staff.  The story is set in the early 1900’s, so she must learn to cook, clean, do laundry and manage a budget. Howard is very supportive and patient.

She routinely visits various orphanages and children’s homes with her mother, who helps with fundraising for them.

One youngster, Jack, hides away in her mother’s carriage and ‘escapes’ from an orphanage in order to keep from being placed on one of the orphan trains.  He is also looking for his baby sister, who he has not seen since he was placed in the orphan home.  There is no record of her anywhere, and the authorities doubt that she actually exists.   Adelaide finds him hiding in her bushes, freezing and hungry.  She and Howard take him in and promise to look for his sister.  Jack insists he is not an orphan. He is adamant that his father, who is away at sea, will come for them before Christmas, as he promised. The authorities are convinced he is dead.  His mother died in the tenements of New York City.

Interwoven in the mystery of the lost sister and father, is Adelaide’s involvement in the new suffrage movement.

Adelaide and Howard rely on their deep faith to guide them. 

This story is heartwarming, emotional and inspirational.   What will become of Jack?  Will they find his sister? Will the father come home as he promised?

This is a story you won’t want to put down until you’ve read it all!

This is from the publisher's website:

"In this hope-filled Gilded Age Christmas novella from bestselling author Lynn Austin, the year is 1901 and the hustle and bustle of the holidays is descending on New York’s Fifth Avenue.

For the first time in her privileged life, Adelaide Forsythe won’t be swept up in it. She couldn’t be happier about the prospect of a quieter Christmas. That’s not to say her transition from Miss to Mrs. has been without challenge. Though she doesn’t regret marrying for love instead of wealth, she can barely light the hearth or cook more than burnt toast. She feels woefully unprepared to run her own household.

Then, on the first Sunday of Advent, winter winds bring change through two unlikely means: a young orphan boy, hiding near Adelaide’s front steps, and a seasoned housekeeper who seems too good to be true.

The boy, Jack, claims he isn’t an orphan at all and is desperate to reunite his family. Adelaide and her husband Howard work tirelessly to solve the riddle of Jack’s story, while Adelaide’s new endeavors open her eyes to a world beyond her past experience—and all the challenge and possibility it holds. As Christmas approaches, small glimmers of wonder light the way toward the answers Adaleide seeks and the most miraculous gift of all."

I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the publisher the via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed  are my own.

Go HERE to read an excerpt

Faith by Lyn Cote - a book review

This book is the third book of the Quaker Brides series.  I have read the first and liked it.  I’m looking forward to reading the second but not having read it didn’t take away from this one.  It is easily a stand alone book.  The author does a good job of bringing the reader up to date.  It is set in the midst of the Civil War.  It is a very easy book to read.  It’s about love, patriotism, family, slavery and tolerance all in a faith based story.

Here’s what the publisher’s website says:

“The Civil War battlefield is the last place Quakeress Faith Cathwell thought she’d find herself. But with a gift for nursing, Faith seizes this opportunity to join the fight for abolition—and to search for Shiloh, a freeborn childhood friend who was kidnapped and sold south by unscrupulous slave catchers.

Knowing it’s much too dangerous for her to search enemy territory alone, Faith enlists the help of Colonel Devlin Knight, who is indebted to her for saving his cousin’s life. A career soldier, Dev is committed to the preservation of the Union but conflicted about freeing his own slave and confidant, who plans to enlist as soon as Dev gives him manumission papers.

Blazing a trail east with the rest of Grant’s army, Dev and Faith fight their personal battles—and a growing attraction to each other. When beliefs clash and passions flare, they quickly find that the only thing more dangerous than the war surrounding them is the battle within their hearts.”

I really liked this book.  I give it 4 stars mainly because I would have liked a little more depth in the characters.  I wanted to feel more from them.  It is apparent that the author really researched the historical aspects of the story and the nursing profession at that time. It was very interesting to learn about the practices at that time.

You can read an excerpt here:  https://files.tyndale.com/thpdata/FirstChapters/978-1-4143-7563-2.pdf?_ga=1.193101230.2019856146.1474551850

Learn more about Lyn Cote here:  http://www.lyncote.com/

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

 

The Sea Keeper's Daughters by Lisa Wingate - a book review

I’m probably one in a million reviewers who didn’t give this book 5 stars.  It started very slowly for me and

while there were portions that were interesting enough to make me want to keep reading, they were too spread apart.  I’d give it 3.75 stars if I could but ratings being what they are, I’ll give it a 4.  There are basically two stories running simultaneously and both are fairly interesting.   There is the contemporary story of the main female character, Whitney.  Then there is the historic story concerning her grandmother. The author has done her homework concerning the historical aspect of the back story.  She introduces many of us to a program long forgotten called the Federal Writers Program.  There are many mysteries and questions that, by the end of the story, she answers beautifully. 

This is from the back cover:

“From modern-day Roanoke Island to the sweeping backdrop of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains and Roosevelt’s WPA folklore writers, past and present intertwine to create an unexpected destiny.

Restaurant owner Whitney Monroe is desperate to save her business from a hostile takeover. The inheritance of a decaying Gilded Age hotel on North Carolina’s Outer Banks may provide just the ray of hope she needs. But things at the Excelsior are more complicated than they seem. Whitney’s estranged stepfather is entrenched on the third floor, and the downstairs tenants are determined to save the historic building. Searching through years of stored family heirlooms may be Whitney’s only hope of quick cash, but will the discovery of an old necklace and a Depression-era love story change everything?”

I usually confine my reading to Christian romance and I can’t honestly say that this book fits that category but it is a clean novel and there was nothing objectionable in it.  For those readers who really like to work at reading, this book would be a good choice.  For those of us who prefer a light-hearted, fast paced romance, one that we can start and finish in a few days,  this is probably not a good fit.

Go here to read an excerpt....

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Born of Persuasion by Jessica Dotta - a book review

 

If you’re a Jane Austin fan you are going to love this book.  Jessica Dotta’s writing is very descriptive and thoughtful.  You can tell she weighed every word before writing it down.  It is a heartfelt, suspenseful, emotional tale of perseverance.  The many plot twists keep you interested from cover to cover.  This is what the publisher says about it:

“The year is 1838, and seventeen-year-old Julia Elliston’s position has never been more fragile. Orphaned and unmarried in a time when women are legal property of their fathers, husbands, and guardians, she finds herself at the mercy of an anonymous guardian who plans to establish her as a servant in far-off Scotland.

With two months to devise a better plan, Julia’s first choice to marry her childhood sweetheart is denied. But when a titled dowager offers to introduce Julia into society, a realm of possibilities opens. However, treachery and deception are as much a part of Victorian society as titles and decorum, and Julia quickly discovers her present is deeply entangled with her mother’s mysterious past. Before she knows what’s happening, Julia finds herself a pawn in a deadly game between two of the country’s most powerful men. With no laws to protect her, she must unravel the secrets on her own. But sometimes truth is elusive and knowledge is deadly.”

 The main characters comes across as very human, portraying a multitude of flaws, vulnerabilities and shortcomings, but also strengths and moral fortitude.  While
I liked the main characters, the character of the maid, Nancy, added a slightly comic touch to this very dramatic story.

 

I highly recommend this book if you are a lover of Regency and Victorian novels.  This book is publisized as a Christian novel but you won’t find it ‘preachy’.  There is very little doctrine present so even if you’re not a fan of Christian novels, you will still like it.

Go here to read an excerpt    https://docs.google.com/viewer?url=http://files.tyndale.com/thpdata/FirstChapters/978-1-4143-7555-7.pdf

 

If you would like to learn more about Jessica Dotta, visit her website.

This is the first of a planned trilogy.  I can’t wait to read the others!

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers  through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

 

 

Bees in the Butterfly Garden by Maureen Lang - a book review

This book review has been a long time coming.  I waited and waited, hoping that if I gave it more time I'd remember something that would make me like it more. I wish I could, but it just wasn't my 'cup of tea'.  For those of you who have read my reviews before, you know I like a book that draws me into the lives of the characters. I like descriptive narratives and engaging dialog.  I like to feel something for the characters.  I never quite got there with this book.  Now, remember, this is only my opinion.  You may really like it.  I hope you do.  I hope you give it a chance and really love it.  At first, I was really drawn to the title.  The main character is a young woman who designs gardens to attract butterflies. You'll have to read the book to find out what the bees reference pertains to.  I had an inkling about that but wasn't comepletely sure until I read the author's notes in the back of the book. I also like books that are obviously Christian in nature.  This one was kind of wishey-washey in that regard,  Usually , it takes me 3-5 days to read a book. This one took me two weeks.  I just couldnt get the hang of the author's writing style.  In my opinion, it was too wordy.  I did like how, toward the end, the author makes a point to emphasize the subtle differences between grace, mercy and justice. 

Here is what the publisher's website says about it:  
"Raised in an exclusive boarding school among Fifth Avenue’s finest, Meg Davenport has all she’s ever needed . . . but none of the things she’s wanted most, like family, or dreams of a future that includes anything other than finding a suitable match. So when her distant father dies, she seizes the chance to throw etiquette aside and do as she pleases. Especially when she learns that John Davenport wasn’t the wealthy businessman she thought, but one of the Gilded Age’s most talented thieves.

Poised to lead those loyal to Meg’s father, Ian Maguire knows the last thing his mentor would have wanted is for his beloved daughter to follow in his footsteps. Yet Meg is determined, and her connections to one of New York’s wealthiest families could help Ian pull off his biggest heist yet. But are they both in over their heads? And in trying to gain everything, will they end up losing it all?"

You can read an exerpt on the publisher's website HERE. I hope you give it a try.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Blog Tour - Promise Me This by Cathy Gohlke, a book review

Promise Me This  by Cathy Gohlke    

This book is a very involved and constantly fluid story with twists and turns that give you no idea of the ending.  As most readers of Christian fiction expect a happy ending, this novel doesn’t disappoint. However; there could have been several different endings possible and the author keeps us in suspense until the very end. 

The story begins on the ship docks on one continent and ends on the docks in another continent.  We are taken along on the disastrous Titanic voyage and into the struggle and devastation of WW1.  The author’s intense and realistic descriptions of both events draw you into the story and you feel you are standing in the midst of the turmoil.  It is obvious that the author has done extensive research which makes the story lines very authentic.

The characters go through many heart wrenching and heartbreaking times that bring about a stronger faith and remind us that God is always with us and never leaves us alone, even through the worst times in our lives.

This is not a book you will be able to read in an evening. It’s far too involved and interesting. You won’t want to miss a word!!  There aren’t many books that I give a 5 star rating to, but this is one on them. 

This is from the publisher:

Michael Dunnagan was never supposed to sail on the Titanic, nor would he have survived if not for the courage of Owen Allen. Determined to carry out his promise to care for Owen’s relatives in America and his younger sister, Annie, in England, Michael works hard to strengthen the family’s New Jersey garden and landscaping business.

Annie Allen doesn’t care what Michael promised Owen. She only knows that her brother is gone—like their mother and father—and the grief is enough to swallow her whole. As Annie struggles to navigate life without Owen, Michael reaches out to her through letters. In time, as Annie begins to lay aside her anger that Michael lived when Owen did not, a tentative friendship takes root and blossoms into something neither expected. Just as Michael saves enough money to bring Annie to America, WWI erupts in Europe. When Annie’s letters mysteriously stop, Michael risks everything to fulfill his promise—and find the woman he’s grown to love—before she’s lost forever.

You can read more about the author, Cathy Gohlke, on her website.   

If you'd like a sneak peek you can go to the Tyndale website and read a preview. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Children's Bible Book Review

My First Hands-On Bible  - a review

From the Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. website:

 My First Hands-On Bible is the preschooler version of the popular Hands-On Bible, which has sold over a half million copies. Jesus taught with hands-on lessons and illustrations; My First Hands-On Bible uses the same experience-based learning to communicate God’s Word in an active, understandable way. My First Hands-On Bible is a fun and simple yet meaningful way to engage preschool, pre-K, and K children (ages 3-6) with the Bible while helping them build a solid faith foundation. Each lesson focuses on a specific Bible point through a variety of activities in order to reinforce and help young children remember the stories and lessons. Using common household items, you can help your children have a “hands-on” learning experience while engaging them in 85 key stories from the Bible. My First Hands-On Bible doesn’t just retell the Bible stories; it also includes actual Scripture from the easy-to-understand and easy-to-read Holy Bible, New Living Translation. In addition to the stories and activities, there are fun illustrations, prayers, and a special Jesus Connection feature.

I recently received a copy of this children’s Bible to review from Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.   The first thing I noticed was the hardcover – nice!!  The graphics on the cover are cute and would appeal to youngsters.  My only concern with this book is that it uses the New Living Translation, not a translation I’m very familiar with.  It also “abridges’ the text for age appropriateness.  As I looked through the various passages, I was impressed with how closely the publishers stayed with the Biblical text.  They didn’t add anything to the Bible stories to make it more appealing, like forest animals talking to each other, or butterflies at the crucifixion,  etc.  Not that there couldn’t have been butterflies at the cross, it just isn’t in the Bible.

As the title states, this is a hands-on Bible.  There are activities to do with your child to help reinforce the story. A big plus for parents who need some guidance  in that area. Each passage has a section after the Bible reading with questions and discussion starters.  There is also a short prayer to say with your child.  While I’m not a fan of recited prayers, I think if a parent were to use this Bible with their child everyday, it might instill in them a habit of reading God’s word and then spending time in conversation with Him.  Each story also has a ‘Jesus connection” that helps to relate the story with Jesus. For instance, in the story of Esther, the Jesus connection is “Esther had to wait for permission to see and talk to the king. But we can talk to King Jesus anytime!”

The Hands-On Bible begins with Genesis 1 and ends with Revelation 22.  Aside from my indecision about the New Living Translation, I love this book. The graphics are well done, simplistic and sweet.  I wish I had had this when my children were small, and I look forward to sharing this with my grandchildren.  

So if you’re looking for a child friendly, Scripturally based, Bible story book, I highly recommend Tyndale’s “My First Hands-on Bible”
Look for it at your favorite book store or search your favortie on-line book stores or you can go to the Tyndale website and choose from a drop down list of stores.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Book Review: Journey to Riverbend

Journey to Riverbend by Henry McLaughlin   

First of all, I need to preface this review with a disclaimer. Christians have many areas of doctrinal differences. I don’t always agree with the doctrines in every book I read and review but I try to be fair and not judgmental.


Journey to Riverbend is not just a story about a physical journey. It’s a story about the journey from sin to redemption and forgiveness, from being lost, then found.

Michael Archer begins a journey to the town of Riverbend on behalf of Ben Carstair. Young Ben, who has just been hanged for a crime Michael is sure that he didn’t commit, was thrown off the family ranch years ago. His dying wish was to be reconciled to his father, Sam Carstairs, and Michael is determined to carry out this wish. When Michael gets to Riverbend, he meets the local pastor and his family and their houseguest, Rachel Stone. Like Michael, Rachel has a past that she would like to forget, and like Michael, she has become a believer in Jesus. Thus begins their journey toward each other.

Before Michael has a chance to meet with Mr. Carstairs, Sam is kidnapped in retaliation for something he did in the past. Because Sam is a prominent citizen of Riverbend, the town forms a posse and Michael joins in order to fulfill his promise to Ben.

If you like historical fiction set in the old west with lots of action and some romance thrown in, then you will want to read this. It has gunfights, stagecoaches, ranch hands, hangings, sin, grit, good guys, bad guys, tension, suspense, forgiveness, redemption, romance, prayer and reconciliation.

Mr. McLaughlin makes the settings and scenery come alive with skillful and artful descriptions. We get to know the characters by McLaughlin allowing us to hear their internal thoughts.

There are a ton of characters to keep track of, which I found a little confusing, but each has an important role in the various journeys, and they don’t end with this book. Apparently, Mr. McLaughlin has a sequel in the works.

This book is appropriate for adult readers but because it can be graphic in some places, I would not recommend it for anyone younger.

Personally, I would love to see this made into a movie!



I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”