Book Review: Falling for You by Becky Wade

Book Details:
Title Falling for You
Series: Bradford Sisters Romance #2
Author: Becky Wade
2018, Bethany House
ISBN:978-0-7642-1937-5
Genre: Contemporary Christian Fiction

Book Summary:
Famously beautiful model Willow Bradford is taking a temporary break from her hectic schedule to work as the innkeeper at her family's small-town bed-and-breakfast. She was enjoying the peace of her hometown, Merryweather, Washington, right up until she came face-to-face with Corbin Stewart, the man she loves to hate. A thoughtful rule-follower by nature, Willow threw caution to the wind four years ago when she entrusted her heart to Corbin--and suffered the consequences when it all fell apart.

Former NFL quarterback Corbin is forceful, charming, and accustomed to getting what he wants . . . except where Willow Bradford is concerned. Unable to forget her, he's never stopped regretting what happened between them. When their paths unexpectedly cross again, he's determined to make her give him a second chance.

When a decades-old missing persons case finds Corbin and Willow working together, they're forced to confront their past and who they've become--and whether they can risk falling for one another all over again.

My Review:
Becky Wade is one of my favorite authors... Christian or not. I love the way she crafts her characters. They are real and emotional and the story is interesting. This book was no different and I loved it start to finish. 

This is the second book in the Bradford Sisters Romance series. Although I loved the first book in the series, I loved the main character of Willow so much more in this book than I did her sister Nora in the last one. It is not necessary to read the first book before this one. I think it would stand alone perfectly fine. Also.... I love that it is set in Mason County, Washington.... which is just one county over from where I live. It is always fun to read a book that is basically set in your backyard.

Willow and Corbin have a difficult and messy romance. They had dated four years previous to this book and had an extremely messy breakup and have been thrown together by Corbin's 12 year old niece. They don't trust or like each other, but have agreed to work together on a mystery for Charlotte's sake. Of course, their old attraction returns, issues are resolved and God works in both their hearts.

Becky Wade always throws in an interesting secondary story. This time Charlotte has discovered a box of old papers in her grandma's closet about a great-aunt who disappeared many years ago and it was never discovered what became of her. Corbin, Willow and Charlotte work together to unravel the 40 year old clues to try to figure out what happened to this women all those years ago.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher, Bethany House Publishers, for my honest opinion. No other compensation was received and all thoughts and opinions are strictly my own.

Book Review: True to You by Becky Wade

Book Details
Title: True to You
Author: Becky Wade
Series: A Bradford Sisters Romance #1
2017, Bethany House
ISBN: 978-0-7642-1936-8
Genre: Contemporary Christian Fiction

Book Summary
After a devastating heartbreak three years ago, genealogist and historical village owner Nora Bradford has decided that burying her nose in her work and her books is far safer than romance in the here and now.

Unlike Nora, former Navy SEAL and Medal of Honor recipient John Lawson is a modern-day man, usually 100 percent focused on the present. But when he's diagnosed with an inherited condition, he's forced to dig into the secrets of his past and his adoption as an infant, enlisting Nora to help him uncover the identity of his birth mother. 

The more time they spend together, the more this pair of opposites suspects they just might be a perfect match. However, John's already dating someone and Nora's not sure she's ready to trade her crushes on fictional heroes for the risks of a real relationship. Finding the answers they're seeking will test the limits of their identity, their faith, and their devotion to one another.

My Review
Becky Wade is one of my favorite Christian Contemporary authors. I was excited to read this first book in her new series A Bradford Sisters Romance. To be honest, I had a hard time getting into the book at first. I wasn't really connecting with Nora, the main character. She was a little too stuffy for me - although I decided later that I probably could BE Nora's character in a different life. haha

That being said... as the book went on I got more and more invested the stories of these characters. I really enjoyed her love interest John Lawson and all the fun secondary characters. Nora's sisters were likable and I am excited to read the next installments of the series to see where it takes them. 

This book was told from the POV of Nora and John, but it had some fun little snippets in the form of letters, text messages, Facebook messages, etc from some of the other characters, so you got a little taste of what was going on behind the scenes in John and Nora's lives - that maybe they didn't even know about.

This has nothing to do about my liking the book, but I was surprised that the setting for this series is in Washington State and just one county over from where I live! Mason County! Such a tiny, unknown little area! I have been to Shelton! Considering the author is from California and lives in Texas, I found this to be a little unexpected! =)

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are strictly my own.


FYI - Upon writing this review I discovered there is a novella that goes with this series that is currently FREE for Kindle owners!!!

Book Review: An Uncommon Courtship by Kristi Ann Hunter

Book Details: 
Title: An Uncommon Courtship
Author: Kristi Ann Hunter
2017, Bethany House
ISBN: 978-0764218262
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Book Summary:
Life for Lady Adelaide Bell was easier if she hid in her older sister's shadow--which worked until her sister got married. Even with thepressure of her socially ambitious mother, the last thing she expected was a marriage of convenience to save her previously spotless reputation.

Lord Trent Hawthorne couldn't be happier that he is not the duke in the family. He's free to manage his small estate and take his time discovering the life he wants to lead, which includes grand plans of wooing and falling in love with the woman of his choice. When he finds himself honor bound to marry a woman he doesn't know, his dream of a marriage like his parents' seems lost forever. 

Already starting their marriage on shaky ground, can Adelaide and Trent's relationship survive the pressures of London society?

My Review:
This is the 3rd book in the Hawthorne House series. I read this one as a stand-alone, as I had not read either of the previous books in the series and had absolutely no trouble following the story line. It was fairly obvious that there were books that had come before this one and told other characters stories, but it didn't affect this book at all.

I found the characters really fun and entertaining to read. I enjoyed Lady Adelaide and how she just didn't quite fit the stereotypical London society woman. For all her trying to be what she knew was right, she was forever getting her hair in a mess or loosing a glove. Very sweet. 

Lord Trent was very carefree - or at least he tried to be. In actuality he was a man of strong moral character and I really enjoyed how he struggled with his unconventional marriage, his faith and even the struggles he had surrounding his older brother the Duke.

This was a great story of finding love, faith in God's plan for our lives and family. I would recommend it. I actually went to the local library after finishing this book and checked out the first two books in the series, which I have enjoyed as well. Great writing. 

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book for my honest review. No other compensation was received and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Book Review: The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill

Book Details:
Title: The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill
Series: Tales from Ivy Hill
Author: Julie Klassen
2016, Bethany House
ISBN:978-0764218132
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Book Summary:
The lifeblood of the Wiltshire village of Ivy Hill is its coaching inn, The Bell. But when the innkeeper dies suddenly, his genteel wife, Jane Bell, becomes the reluctant owner. Jane has no notion of how to run a business. However, with the town's livelihood at stake and a large loan due, she must find a way to bring new life to the inn. 

Despite their strained relationship, Jane turns to her resentful mother-in-law, Thora, for help. Formerly mistress of The Bell, Thora is struggling to find her place in the world. As she and Jane work together, they form a measure of trust, and Thora's wounded heart begins to heal. When she encounters two men from her past, she sees them--and her future--in a different light.

With pressure mounting from the bank, Jane employs innovative methods to turn the inn around, and puzzles over the intentions of several men who seem to have a vested interest in the place. Will her efforts be enough to save The Bell? And will Thora embrace the possibility of a second chance at love?

My Review:
Another lovely book by Julie Klassen! This is one of my favorite Christian authors of historical fiction. This is the first book in a new series about a little town in England called Ivy Hill. 

This book focuses on Jane Bell, the reluctant innkeeper of the coaching inn. Her mother-in-law Thora is also a main character in this book. I always love the little details in Klassen's books. I learned a lot about coaching inn's during the course of this book and found it pretty interesting. 

There was also the POV of another secondary character to this book, Rachel Ashford. I'm sure she will be featured in the next book of the series and this was almost a little foretelling on the next book. Although this book could be read as a stand alone, you can definitely tell there will be another book in the series. Jane Bell's story also remained unfinished in this first book and I hope it will be worked out in a later book.

There was some romance - surprised me a little who the romance was mostly focused on though. And there were suitor's galore.

I will be looking forward to the next book in the series.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book for my honest review from Bethany House Publishers. No other compensation was received and all thoughts were my own.

Book Review: Home on the Range

Book Details: 
Title: Home on the Range
Series: Double S Ranch
Author: Ruth Logan Herne
2016, Waterbrook Press
ISBN:978-1601427786
Genre: Christian Contemporary Fiction

Book Summary:
Can the brother left behind and a woman without hope work together for the good of two precious children?

Nick Stafford stayed in central Washington, working his family’s large ranch after his brothers left to pursue other passions—but his toughest job is being a single dad. As a child he watched his father fail at marriage and parenting, so Nick was determined to show him up. He’d be a better husband, father, and ranch manager than Sam Stafford ever was. Despite that commitment, three years after Nick’s wife left him, he has a daughter in trouble at school and both of his girls are facing issues that force him to rethink his stubborn plans. 

For Dr. Elsa Andreas, life fell apart when tragedy caused her to abandon her family therapy practice and retreat to the backwoods of Gray’s Glen. Her school principal sister believes Elsa can guide the Stafford girls and that working with kids will draw Elsa out of her protective bubble. 

Summer on the Double S teems with life and adventure. Amid the bounty of God and land, will Nick and Elsa find the courage to build futures based on faith rather than fear?

My Review:
This was the first book I've read by this author and it was very enjoyable. Obviously, I did not read the first book in the series and although it probably would have added to my book experience because I would have known some of the background story, I think this book can easily be a stand alone. I am from Western Washington and have been to some of the places surrounding this story, so that was a fun little part for me. 

Nick is a single dad whose wife left him with two daughters. He works hard at the Double S, the middle son, and the only one still working at the ranch. He puts a lot of stock in being better than his dad was, but is failing miserably. Then his eldest daughter starts having a lot of trouble at school and he has to make some adjustments.

Dr. Andreas was an interesting character. I had a hard time getting into her at first because she was so hermit-like and mysterious. But the farther into the book I got, the better I liked her. Can she learn to trust God and herself again while helping Nick and his girls get back on track?

It is a great story of real-life issues. A story of redemption and forgiveness... and not just forgiveness of others. Sometimes we have to learn to forgive ourselves. I really enjoyed the story. I felt like it was not too predictable and it felt real. I would definitely read another book in the series.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Waterbrook Press for my honest review. No other compensation was given and all thoughts and opionions are my own.

Book Review: Newton and Polly by Jody Hedlund

Book Details:
Title: Newton & Polly
Author: Jody Hedlund
2016, Waterbrook Press
ISBN: 9781601427649
Genre: Historical Fiction

Book Summary:
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.

My Review:
I am a huge fan of Jody Hedlund's books. I especially love her novels that focus on a historical figure and this book was one of my favorites. We have all heard the hymn Amazing Grace, but how much do we know about the author or what lead up to it being written.

Hedlund takes us back to 18th Century England to follow John Newton and Polly Catlett. Newton is a irresponsible boy who constantly shirks is duty in favor of whatever has taken his fancy at the moment. Polly Catlett is the girl he falls in love with, but her family has reservations about John and how he would support Polly.... not to mention his lack of faith in God.

Polly loves John in return, but also has a dream of going to school and learning more about music and composing. Also, she wants to have her family's blessing. Through a series of events John is impressed by the Royal Navy and taken off to sea. Will Polly wait for John? Will John get past his anger and bitterness? 

I don't know how historically accurate this story was, but I loved it. I greatly enjoyed the love story between John and Polly even though life seemed to be trying to keep them apart. I especially enjoyed John's journey towards finding God when his eyes were finally opened to all that the Lord was doing in his life. Honestly, I want to do some research of my own on the couple to see how much of the story was true. 

Excellent read!

Disclosure: I recieved a free copy of this book from the publisher at BloggingforBooks. No other compensation was given and all thoughts and opinions are strictly my own.

Book Review: The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George

Book Summary:
Monsieur Perdu can prescribe the perfect book for a broken heart. But can he fix his own?

Monsieur Perdu calls himself a literary apothecary. From his floating bookstore in a barge on the Seine, he prescribes novels for the hardships of life. Using his intuitive feel for the exact book a reader needs, Perdu mends broken hearts and souls. The only person he can't seem to heal through literature is himself; he's still haunted by heartbreak after his great love disappeared. She left him with only a letter, which he has never opened.

After Perdu is finally tempted to read the letter, he hauls anchor and departs on a mission to the south of France, hoping to make peace with his loss and discover the end of the story. Joined by a bestselling but blocked author and a lovelorn Italian chef, Perdu travels along the country’s rivers, dispensing his wisdom and his books, showing that the literary world can take the human soul on a journey to heal itself.

My Review:
The idea of this book looked really cute and enchanting. Unfortunately after sitting on my shelf for quite awhile I've given up being able to get into the book. It's really about loss and grieving and I'm more of a happy book person. I didn't realize the book was going to be so sad when I got it. I may go back to it eventually, but this wasn't a book for me.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Blogging for Books for my honest review. No other compensation was received and all thoughts and opinions are strictly my own.

Book Review: The Shock of Night by Patrick W Carr

Book Details:
Title: The Shock of Night
Author: Patrick W Carr
2015, Bethany House
IBSN: 978-0764213465
Genre: Fantasy

Book Summary:
When one man is brutally murdered and the priest he works for mortally wounded on the streets of Bunard, Willet Dura is called to investigate. Yet the clues to the crime lead to contradictions and questions without answers. As Willet begins to question the dying priest, the man pulls Willet close and screams in a foreign tongue. Then he dies without another word.

Willet returns to the city, no closer to answers than before, but his senses are skewed. People he touches appear to have a subtle shift, a twist seen at the edge of his vision, and it's as though he can see their deepest thoughts. In a world divided between haves and have-nots, gifted and common, Willet soon learns he's been passed the rarest gift of all: a gift that's not supposed to exist. 

Now Willet must pursue the murderer still on the loose in Bunard even as he's pulled into a much more dangerous and epic conflict that threatens not only his city, but his entire world--a conflict that will force him to come to terms with his own tortured past if he wants to survive.

My Review:
I very rarely do this but... I just couldn't get into this book. I read Patrick Carr's last series The Staff and the Sword and although it was a little more dense than my usual fare, I still enjoyed it. I was interested to read this new series by the author and even got the prequel - which I finished. 

I tried several times to get into this one. I think if you are normally a fan of this type of dark, dense fantasy reading then it is probably a good read. I just couldn't really understand what was all going on and there was a lot of murder going on.

Like the other series, there was a lot of mystical, magical things going on in this fantasy world. People in this word have these strange gifts that they can use for good or bad. There are pure gifts and more diluted gifts that have been split over time. I think someone is stealing gifts in this book, but honestly it was getting beyond me. 

If you were a huge fan of the author's first series or books like it, then I think you would like this one too. It just wasn't for me this time around.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book for my honest review. No other compensation was received and all thoughts and opinions are strictly my own.

Book Review: Like Never Before by Melissa Tagg

Book Details:
Title: Like Never Before
Author: Melissa Tagg
2016 Bethany House
ISBN: 978-0764213083
Genre: Contemporary Christian Fiction

Book Summary:
A dying newspaper. An intriguing mystery. And a love they didn't see coming.

Maple Valley became Amelia Bentley's haven after her heart and her dreams of a family were shattered. But her new life as a newspaper editor is shaken when the small-town paper is in danger of closing. Her one hope: A lead on an intriguing story that just might impress the new publisher...if only she knew who he was.

After his biggest campaign success yet, widowed speechwriter Logan Walker now has the chance of a lifetime--a spot on a presidential campaign. But his plans are interrupted when he finds out he's inherited his hometown newspaper. He travels home intent on selling the paper and spending some much-needed time with his young daughter before making the leap into national politics.

But instead of a quick sale and peaceful break from his hectic career, Logan finds himself helping Amelia chase her story. She's scrappy, but wounded. He's dependable, but lost. They may butt heads more than expected, but a series of leads on Maple Valley's quirky unsolved mystery is just the start of the sparks that fly in the office and in their hearts.

My Review:
This book is the second in the Walker Family Series. I have not read the first book in the series and was happy to find that although you could tell there was another couple whose story I didn't know the background about, it did not affect the reading of this installment at all. 

I'm a big fan of Melissa Tagg and this was another beautifully written book with interesting, likable characters. Told from the POV of the two main characters Amelia Bentley and Logan Walker and centered around a cute small town called Maple Valley.

The author did a good job keeping some mystery surrounding why Amelia had decided to come to and settle in Maple Valley in the first place. All we really knew was that something in her past had brought her here.... but we didn't really know what. Amelia is a sweet character. She is very invovled in the community both as a reporter and a citizen and everyone loves her. But she's always got that thing you know is lurking in her past.

Then there is Logan. I loved that he really isn't perfect, but he's a very polished, professional person. He's a single dad and his daughter is speech delayed. His wife died and he lives in LA. His in-laws resent that he lives so far away and his career is about to take off... I really liked his character. He's just a really down-to-earth person who is trying his best to be the best at everything.

It took me awhile to make in through this book because I had a baby right after I started it. Even though it literally took me almost my whole 3 month maternity leave to finish it, I was able to jump right back into the story at any point and get right back into it. Loved it and I think I'll be checking out the first book in the series!

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are strictly my own and I received no other compensation.

Book Review: Undaunted Hope by Jody Hedlund

Book Details:
Title: Undaunted Hope
Author: Jody Hedlund
2016, Bethany House
ISBN: 978-0-7642-1239-0
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Book Summary:
In a Town Mired in Darkness, She May Shine the Light They Need

Running from the mistakes of her past, Tessa Taylor heads to the uppermost reaches of Michigan, planning to serve as the new teacher to the children of miners. She quickly learns the town had requested a male teacher, but Percival Updegraff, superintendent and chief mine clerk, says she can stay through winter since it's too late to replace her. Tessa can't help but thank him  and say she is in his debt.

Determined to make herself irreplaceable once spring thaw arrives, Tessa throws herself into her work, and soon two students and decided Miss Taylor is the right match for their grieving father. At the same time, charming assistant lightkeeper Alex Bjorklund makes his interest known, surprising Tessa, who has never had men fight for her hand before. But not all is well as she feels that someone is tracking her ever move, and she may not be able to escape the trap that has been laid for her.

My Review:
I have read quite a few of this authors books and have become increasingly frustrated with the last few. I was pleasantly surprised with Undaunted Hope because the main character showed more integrity than some of the past few in the Beacons of Hope series.

This book is set in 1871 in Eagle Harbor, Michigan. Unlike the last couple books in this series, Tessa is not a lightkeeper and she doesn't want to be. She is a schoolteacher. We actually met Tessa in the previous book in the series and although this book could stand alone, I think in order to really appreciate her character, that book should be read first.

Tessa comes to Eagle Harbor as a teacher, but she soon learns that there are many things not right in the small copper mining community. Percival Updegraff, the chief mine clerk, uses many underhanded ways of keeping his employees in line. He preys on women and threatens the children. He seems to know everything that goes on in the community no matter how small.

The only people he seems not to have under his thumb are the two lightkeepers - brothers - Alex and Michael Bjorklund. Tessa befriends Michael's two young children who attend the school and the young girl tries some matchmaking
between Tessa and her father.

I was happy to see that Tessa attempted to keep her reputation from being ruined during her time spent with the brothers. That had been one of my frustrations with the previous books in the series that the main characters seemed rather naive and, if I must say it, stupid when it came to her time spent with men - especially men they were attracted too. Just because you are attracted to someone doesn't mean you throw all your morals and brains out the window and I was happy to see that Tessa, for the most part, kept her brains about her.

Although this is Christian fiction, I didn't feel like it was a huge part of the storyline. It is mentioned, but not really talked about much in the book. This doesn't bother me, but it may be something that someone who likes a strong Christian message takes issue with.

Overall I thought it was a good and interesting book. I always enjoy the Author's Note at the end that reveals the true historical inspirations for the author's stories. I may continue on with the series now that I've read this one!

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers for my honest review. No other compensation was received and all thoughts and opinions are strictly my own.

Book Review: The Lost Heiress by Roseanna M White

Book Details:

Title: The Lost Heiress

Author: Roseanna M White

2015, Bethany House

ISBN: 978-0764213502

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Book Summary:

Sweeping Romance and Mystery in the Edwardian Era

Brook Eden has never known where she truly belongs. When her friend Justin uncovers the fact that she is possibly a missing heiress from Yorkshire, Brook leaves the sun of the Mediterranean to travel to the moors of the North Sea and the estate of her supposed family.

The mystery of her mother's death haunts her, and though her father is quick to accept her, the rest of the family and the servants of Whitby Park are not. Only when Brook's life is threatened do they draw close--but will their loyalty come too late to save Brook from the same threat that led to tragedy for her mother?

As heir to a dukedom, Justin is no stranger to balancing responsibilities. When the matters of his estate force him far from Brook, the distance between them reveals that their friendship has grown into something much more. But how can their very different loyalties and responsibilities ever come together?

And then for a second time, the heiress of Whitby Park is stolen away because of the very rare treasure in her possession--and those who can save her still aren't sure whom to trust.

My Review:

This was the first book I’ve read by this author and I really enjoyed it. It was a really nice combination of historical fiction with a little bit of mystery. It was set in 1910 England and was told from the POV of Brook and Justin.

Brook grows up in Monaco but doesn’t really know who she is or where she belongs. After her mother dies, she finds some old letters with a seal on it that she gives to her friend Justin to research when he’s back in England. He discovers she might be a long-lost heiress to Whitby Park.

Justin has had more than just friendly feelings for Brook for a while now. But he is in line to become the next Duke of Stafford and can’t really marry a nobody – although he might like too. The fact that Brook might be an heiress might change things, but he doesn’t want to lose her friendship – what will become of their relationship?

I really enjoyed the story of this book. I really draws the reader in and keeps you guessing. There is just enough intrigue to make it interesting without losing the rest of the story.

There are a couple “villains” who you might not guess were going to turn out that way at the beginning. I liked that the relationship between Justin and Brook took its time even though they had known each other since they were children. It had a nice natural journey to it.

I would definitely read some more books by this author. I did think the book was kind of long, but not in a bad way. It just seemed longer than some of the similar books I’ve read by Bethany House Publishers, but I don’t want anyone to think that made this book boring to read. It was interesting the whole way through.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this by book from the publisher for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are strictly my own and no other compensation was received.

Book Review: Hearts Made Whole by Jody Hedlund

Book Details:
Title: Hearts Made Whole
Author: Jody Hedlund
2015, Bethany House 
ISBN: 978-0764212383
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Book Summary:
1865, Windmill Point, Michigan
Can She Forgive the Hurting Man Who Costs Her the Role She Loves?

After her father's death, Caroline Taylor has grown confident running the Windmill Point Lighthouse. But in 1865 Michigan, women aren't supposed to have such roles, so it's only a matter of time before the lighthouse inspector appoints a new keeper--even though Caroline has nowhere else to go and no other job available to her.

Ryan Chambers is a Civil War veteran still haunted by the horrors of battle. He's secured the position of lighthouse keeper mostly for the isolation--the chance to hide from his past is appealing. He's not expecting the current keeper to be a feisty and beautiful woman who's angry with him for taking her job and for his inability to properly run the light. When his failings endanger others, he and Caroline realize he's in no shape to run the lighthouse, but he's unwilling to let anyone close enough to help. Caroline feels drawn to this wounded soul, but with both of them relying on that single position, can they look past their loss to a future filled with hope...and possibly love?

My Review:
This is the second full novel in the Beacons of Hope series. Let me start by saying that I love the historical aspects of this novel and the previous book and novella. Before this, I'd not been aware that there were so many lighthouses around the Great Lakes (although it makes sense, I'd just never though about it). I have enjoyed learning about the light keepers duties, lives and the women who helped. I always appreciate how the author ties her stories somewhat around a real historical person or event.

That all being said, this wasn't my favorite book. Her characters, as usual, were well developed and the story was richly written, but I sometimes have a few issues with the romance portion.In this case, Caroline Taylor, the daughter of the former light keeper, although a smart woman, allowed herself to become too attached to a drug addict/drunk. I had a hard time believing she would risk her reputation and that of her sister and continue living at the lighthouse with the new (drunk) of a light keeper.

Not that I didn't like the drunk character! Ryan Chambers is the carry-over character from the first novel and I enjoyed hearing about what had become of him. I think his struggle with alcohol is real and the author does a great job of showing how much of a struggle staying sober is even when it is what the person wants to do. He epitomizes the redeeming grace of God and our need to lean on Him instead of ourselves or others.

As for other secondary characters, there was Caroline's younger sister who I couldn't stand from page 1 and the evil tavern owner from town and his weird son who I knew something was off with early on in the story. Unfortunately, even with all the good writing and colorful characters, the story fell a little flat for me. The romance was good, but the circumstances and problems they faced seemed too contrived for me to really enjoy completely. I found myself frustrated with Caroline's character over and over again.

I think this is a great series, and I love the historical elements, but this wasn't my favorite novel. A good read, but not a great one.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of the book from Bethany House Publishing for an honest review. No other compensation was received and all thoughts and opinions are strictly my own.

A Paw Patrol Birthday Party

Zachary is THREE - three! - how did that happen? This was a exciting birthday because this was his first birthday where he was walking independently! Hooray!! Some parents get excited when their child is walking by their first birthday - I'm thrilled that he's walking at his third. =) 

Zach's most favorite thing at the moment is Nick Jr's Paw Patrol. I have to admit, of all the cartoons out there, this one is pretty good. It's less annoying than a lot of the other options. I'm always a little anti character-themed parties, but he loves it so much that I made an exception this year.

We were celebrating on a Sunday afternoon after church and were going to be out of town most of that Saturday, so I couldn't have too much crazy prep going on.

My mom helped me out and printed this banner from the Nick Jr website and sewed it to a ribbon. Thanks Mom!

My friend Stephanie made this cake for the party. Zach thought it was great that all the puppies were on it. =)

Of course he got some great Paw Patrol gifts that he and his brother have spent the next few days arguing over.....

I checked out some other great party's on Pinterest and picked my favorite ideas from a few. My husband grilled hot dogs for everyone, we had Pawtato Salad, Pupcorn and two types of Puppy Chow. I did the Cinnamon Curro and S'mores Puppy Chow (that one was a huge hit). I bought these great dog bowls at Dollar Tree! They were the perfect serving size for my snacks! I downloaded the blank food labels from Mom's Tot School and just hand wrote on them with a Sharpie.

Here's a lovely mid-party messy view of the table.... =)

I did get some Paw Patrol plates, napkins, tablecloth and balloons for the party. Although we had a few late minute RSVPs, so I dug in my past party supplies and found some blue plates and red napkins to supplement! Whew!

We just had lemonade in my lovely teardrop dispenser from World Market (I just couldn't handle drinking something that was called "Toilet Water" like I saw of a few other sites...) and some mason jar cups with fun straws. I printed off a little sign for the front door (sorry for the blurry photo) and printed off some graphics from the Nick Jr website for gift bags. The name tags were some more blank food labels from Mom's Tot School. 

I wish I'd remembered to take a photo of what was inside the gift bags, but it was a packet of coloring pages I'd printed off the Nick Jr website, a 4-pack of crayon's from Party City in Paw Patrol boxes, a small doggie tennis ball (Target), a mask of one of the dogs, a package of Annie's fruit snacks and some Paw Patrol tattoos and stickers also purchased at Party City.

It was a fun party, but I'm happy that the party-planning is now over for the year - birthday's are stressful! =)

First Summer Camping Trip

We like to take several camping trips each summer if we can manage it. It is my husband's busy time at work, but if we schedule far enough in advance we can make it happen.

This past week, the four of us plus my parents headed over to the eastern half of the state to Lake Pearrygin State Park. This was a new camp spot for us and our campsite was right on the lake! I was concerned it was going to be crazy crowded, but apparently we lucked out by going mid-week (Tues-Fri) and only the last day did the annoying neighbors show up. =)

The view from our campsite:

I was a little nervous about this location and Zachary drowning, but it was up on a bank and considering he's not very adventurous, I didn't have to worry too much. We had a nice relaxing week. The boys always love camping. I used this link from Pinterest and some leftover bags from Malachi's Hot Wheel birthday party this past March (which I apparently posted nothing about!) and put together a scavenger hunt for them. Zach is really too young, but he liked walking around with his big brother anyway. 

My mom and I tried out a few new meals (mostly her ideas). We had a camping pizza which was a big success, cooked our cornbread like pancakes to go with our chili and campfire french toast (moderately successful... if I'd followed the instructions correctly it might have been better!)

Malachi was excited to be able to fish right off the side of the lake. He learned to cast out a line pretty well over those couple days.

We walked around the nearby town of Winthrop, which is a little touristy old-timey town. Then we headed out to see the Falls Creek Waterfall. It was just a short little hike, but had a beautiful view.

All in all a fun trip! Already have a site scoped out for next year and ideas for what to do and bring since we've got a better idea of what's in the area. =)

I'll leave you with this.... this is what fun looks like... maybe too much fun. =)

Book Review: The Art of Losing Yourself by Katie Ganshert

Book Details:

Title: The Art of Losing Yourself

Author: Katie Ganshert

2015, Waterbrook Press

ISBN: 978-1601425928

Genre: Christian Contemporary Fiction

Book Summary:

Just like in my dream, I was drowning and nobody even noticed.

Every morning, Carmen Hart pastes on her made-for-TV smile and broadcasts the weather. She’s the Florida panhandle’s favorite meteorologist, married to everyone’s favorite high school football coach. They’re the perfect-looking couple, live in a nice house, and attend church on Sundays. From the outside, she’s a woman who has it all together.  But on the inside, Carmen Hart struggles with doubt. She wonders if she made a mistake when she married her husband. She wonders if God is as powerful as she once believed. Sometimes she wonders if He exists at all. After years of secret losses and empty arms, she’s not so sure anymore.

Until Carmen’s sister—seventeen year old runaway, Gracie Fisher—steps in and changes everything. Gracie is caught squatting at a boarded-up motel that belongs to Carmen’s aunt, and their mother is off on another one of her benders, which means Carmen has no other option but to take Gracie in. Is it possible for God to use a broken teenager and an abandoned motel to bring a woman’s faith and marriage back to life? Can two half-sisters make each other whole?    

My Review:

As always, Katie Ganshert writes a beautiful story. The characters are well developed and the writing is lovely. This was a modern day story, set in Florida’s panhandle. Carmen Hart is the local TV meteorologist and she is married to the local high school football coach. They look like they have the perfect life from the outside… but on the inside they are struggling. They have been trying to have a baby of their own for years now and the longer the process takes, the more withdrawn Carmen becomes.

Enter her younger sister, Gracie. Gracie’s life looks like a total mess on the outside. She doesn’t fit in, her mother is an alcoholic, and she is always getting into trouble in school. When Carmen finds Gracie living in a vacant motel, she takes Gracie home with her and that stirs everything up.

To be honest, I struggled with this book some. Not because the story wasn’t good or because the characters weren’t believable – because they were very real – but because it was very sad. At one point, I put the book down and just had a heavy weight on my chest from all the hurts in this book. Yes, there is hope and redemption and restoration, but the road to get there is very bleak, depressing and hard. My sorrow for Carmen’s character had me feeling her pain on many occasions and I almost didn’t want to continue on at some points because I was afraid of what was going to happen.

My favorite character in this book was Carmen’s husband Ben. He is a wonderful man who is full of integrity and love for his wife, but he wasn’t perfect. There were a couple times I was expecting a royal screw-up on his part (thank you to the author for not letting it happen… I don’t think I could have handled it) but he kept clinging to his faith, his family and his dreams throughout the story.

There are also many colorful secondary characters, Aunt Ingrid who has dementia (also a sad aspect to the story) Elias, Gracie’s friend and Carmen and Gracie’s mom were all great additions to the storyline.

So… if you want to read a beautifully written story of faith and redemption that is woven with realistic life doubts and crisis this is a great read. If you can’t stand sad book, then this is not the book for you.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Blogging for Books in return for my honest review. No other compensation was received and all thoughts and opinions are strictly my own.