That Certain Summer

I've been used to reading Hannon's crime books, so upon seeing that she wrote a romance novel I was pretty intrigued! And I was surprised that I enjoyed this topic of writing just as much (or more so) than I did her crime novels!
Her laid back style really draws me in, and even in the beginnings of the story I find myself settling in like I'm reading about an old friend! Hannon certainly has a talent in bringing her words to life!
In "That Certain Summer" we read about the stories of two sisters, Val and Karen who are not on the best of terms. Both grew up with feelings of resentment towards each other, and the years have not done much to change that. When Val needs to return to her hometown to care for her sick mother, we begin to learn of her secrets that first drew her away.
This was a great book, I highly recommend this book, it was such a wonderful read!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group". 

Deadly Devotion

I adore a book that showcases a strong female lead, and doesn't lend its-self to whimpering women throwing themselves on the mercies of the "strong men" in their lives. So right away from the look and description of this book, I figured that I would be fan of Orchard's writing style! (and I am!)
One thing I really adored about this book, was how the author continually kept me on my toes, as soon as I though i'd figured out one character, she'd throw another twist in that would completely surprise me!
When Kate's Mentor and research partner is killed, she throws herself into finding out who is responsible and the reasoning behind her friends death. As she delves deeper into these mysteries, we're drawn with her as she uncovers some surprising information! (I'm trying so hard to not give anything away, its such a great book, you really should read it for yourself!!)

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group". 

Stealing the Preacher

I was so excited to see that Witemeyer continued on with the story of the brothers from the "Short-straw Bride", I enjoyed that book so much and knew that this one was bound to be just as good! (and I was right, this was a fantastic book!)
There were a few moments within the story that I was on the verge of rolling my eyes as it edged onto corniness, however Witemeyer pull that back each time and never did cross that line into silliness.
I would have liked reading more about Crockett (but I guess that's a sign of a good book, wanting to know more, lol) but I also appreciated all the background shared in Joanna's descriptions.
All in all, I did fully enjoy the book, and I imagine that if there was anything I "Had" to complain about, is that I wished it was longer! I can't wait for Witemeyer to come out with more books!!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group". 

The Quarryman's Bride

I love Tracie Peterson's books, I've been a big fan of hers throughout the years, so I was pretty stoked to see another of her's up fro review (and especially when I realized that it was a continuation of the Land of shining water series!!)
True to Peterson's style of writing, the characters came alive within the story. We run though a gauntlet of emotions with Emmalyne's triumphs and heart aches. One of the ways I see a book as a "great book" is when the author can show me an initial character that I find unlikeable, and by the end of the book, once their background story is known and their heart is known, I find myself softened and more understanding towards them. This book has all of those features, we go through heartache, journeys of strength, triumphs and fears with Emmalyne, and emerge from the end of the book wanting more!
I would 100% recommend this book, it was fantastic and has earned itself a position on my favorite (and most picked through) bookshelf!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group". 

Fully Alive

I am not a big fan of books that try to define my roll as a women, especially when it comes from a man. So I had a lot of mixed feelings when it came to reading this book. And I have to say I'm a bit torn. I appreciate that Crabb wanted to take people beyond their gender stereotypes, but the book (to me) tended to place the genders in a lot of generalities (or stereotypes). There were the "Typical" fears or "core terrors" from each gender that I found to be a bit stereotypical. And while I thought there were good points that Crabb made, it was a bit too boxed in for me.
I enjoyed that Crabb used personal stories to try and apply what he was saying to "real life", however I also found that it was a lot of reading in some parts for only a little bit of information. There was a lot of repeating within the topics, so I found myself frustrated when I felt I was reading the same info a few times over in different chapters, pages, etc...
In all though, I wouldn't entirely dismiss Crabbs book, he does make some interesting points, and there are sections of the book that cause you to look inward and be introspective. Which is always a bonus!
I'd recommend this book for those who know who they are and are aware of who they are in Christ. Definitely a book for more of a mature Christian, I'd shy away from recommending it to a new Christian though!


"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from BakerBooks, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

Joni & ken

I have long admired Joni in her attitude and the way she faces overwhelming obstacles, so when this book came up for review I was happy to request it!
Although Joni and Ken are facing much different and more difficult circumstance than most, there was so much I learned from them. And not just for the betterment of myself, but also my marriage. Their willingness to fight for their marriage, their commitment to love each other is very inspirational!
I very much appreciated their willingness to give their readers a look at their personal lives and struggles, not many in the public eye are willing to be so transparent.
I admire that their choice in marriage is to cling to Jesus to see them through every rocky time, and I am impressed with their openness to share the struggles within their marriage.
I without a doubt will highly recommend this book, (and any book by Joni!) There is so much within these pages that inspires you, challenges you, and betters you!