Christmas Memories

By

Nancy Carey Johnson

If I could fill my  Christmas stocking with goodies and stories it would be filled to over flowing with all the wonderful vignettes and recipes that are between the covers of this book.   What a wonderful holiday treat to pick this book up and go down memory lane with Ms. Johnson.  In doing that with her, so many of my own childhood memories and nostalgia came to the surface to be relived in my heart and mind again.  What a Christmas gift that is!  

I'm not so much on cooking or baking but the recipes in this book are a treasure trove of yumminess sounding creations I'd be willing to give a go at!  My mouth watered at so many of them like "Chewy, Ooey-Gooey, Chocolatey Dense Brownies".  MMMmmmm!   Or the mysterious "Indian Pudding"...whatever could that be? Kahlua Crackles....bring 'em on!  YEAH!   Then the traditional Christmas foods like the perfect roasted turkey and "exclaimed over garlic mashed potatoes".  Makes my tummy growl just thinking about this!  The book is so full of tasty-sounding recipes that not only sound delicious but had a way of bringing pictures in my mind of the food laden tables at holiday gatherings when I was growing up.  

Reading this book was a virtual walk down memory lane of holidays past.  From the first chilly evenings in fall to the fresh fallen snows of winter, this is a reminiscence with Ms. Johnson's beautiful writing, humor, and wisdom she shares from her heart.  The titles at the beginning of each  of the memories creates a curiosity as to what it's going to be about.  "Red and Greens", Tougher Than Alligator Baggies", "Stumblebummers"....just a few of the many, many stories that I read and reflected on.  It's a book to journey through at a leisurely stroll and take in each and every word and keep them in my heart.  And bringing the memories I have in my heart back to remember.  It was like going into the attic and opening the long forgotten chest and having the gift of those memories back to live again.  I want to thank Ms. Johnson for the joy of reading her treasured memories, thoughts, perfected recipes and that she shared them in this book.  YES!  "Life is Good" and for me this book is a traditional Christmas read that I would gather around a warm cozy fire and share from it with my family and friends.  Thank you so very much!!!   All thoughts and opinions in this review are my heartfelt own.

 

 The Betrayal
By
Terry Lynn Thomas

There is almost no worse feeling than that of being betrayed unless you're betrayed by the one person you love with all your heart. Believing your love for each other is forever. This is what Olivia has believed her 32-year marriage to Richard has been. True love. "True love isn't about romance. True love, the kind of love that withstands the test of time, is what you have when the romance wears away. True love is knowing your spouse has your back no matter what. It's about devotion and family. I thought I had that with Richard." But Olivia gets an annoymous text message on her birthday with an incriminating video of Richard and his secretary and her world comes crashing down.

Ms. Thomas then creates a psychological suspense novel that pulled me in. I don't read many books in this genre so I was suspicous of almost every character that was involved in Olivia's life. Not only was Olivia betrayed by her husband but she's been set up to take the fall for his secretary's murder. Olivia is then dependent on herself to clear herself of the murder. Ms. Thomas had me turning the pages to find out how Olivia was going to manage doing that. She adds diverse and intricately developed supporting characters that had me guessing if they were actually on Olivia's side or if they were betraying her, too. All that is except Brian. His story had my heart and his desire to help Olivia was so honest. "Brian was an old-school cop who believed in working his cases on a personal level."

There is so much that kept me reading the book. The fast pace, the twists, turns, the clues that surfaced from surprising places, the vivid details within the scenes....it's a well written novel. Olivia is a very well developed protagonist and I felt connected to her the entire time. It was nice to read about a character who's age is very close to my own, too. The plots in the story are realistic and plausible.

I want to thank the author, Terry Lynn Thomas, for the honor of reading this thrilling book. I'm excited this is the first novel of the series! Can't wait to jump into the next one! All opinions and thoughts in this review are my heartfelt own.

Come Tomorrow

By

Tess Thompson

"To love someone as much as they love each other is a great gift. Even when parted, the love remains." This is such a profound quote from Come Tomorrow that perfectly describes true love in the story. Tess Thompson has brought another heartwarming, tear jerking, all over the emotional spectrum novel in my favorite genre, historical fiction. She has such a talent to draw the reader right into the story from the first paragraph and doesn't let them go until the touching last page. Come Tomorrow is such a feel-good story and what an amazing beginning to a Christmas holiday series.

I love Tess Thompson's characters. Wesley, Luci and Sadie were so easy to connect to and become a part of the story with them. At the beginning of the story my emotions were pulled to tears and my heart broke for them. Ms. Thompson's main characters are so endearing and they wrapped themselves around my heart in ways that made me feel the emotions they were going through. Even Atlas/Gus, the faithful and loyal dog, pulled my heartstrings. She creates word stories in her books. Stories that draw you in and make you feel. She puts the reader into the lives of her characters in such a deep and involved way that you fall in love with them completely.

The story of Luci and Wesley brings with it unexpected surprises, drama, heartbreak and doubts. It's also filled with hope, love, and forgiveness. Ms. Thompson's writing brings all these things together with her storytelling talent in a book I couldn't put down. Her stories are from her heart, filled with scenes that are written with details that create perfect images in my mind. I was 100% into this book and couldn't put it down. I can't wait to read the next book in this exciting new Castaway series. What an excellent beginning novel.

I loved going to the little town of Castaway with these characters and spending time there. The magic of the snow globe and meaning was so touching. I highly recommend shaking the "snow globe" of the pages in this novel and be mesmerized by the story that settles into your heart.

I want to thank Ms. Thompson for the privilege and honor of reading another superb book. I loved it! All thoughts and opinions in this review are my heartfelt own.

 

The Irish Storm

By

J. Walter Ring

There is so much to why I love historical fiction and The Irish Storm is one more reason I do. I learn so much about a time gone by in the details written into a novel and Mr. Ring has given great attention to details in this book. It starts out with an engrossing and intense first chapter. The action never stops throughout the book. The story is based on Mr. Ring's own Irish heritage and adds to the fascination of the historic facts.

This novel is highly researched and the characters are intricately developed. As the story starts out with Sergeant Emerson "Bud" Ryan in the trenches of Ronssay, France, I was pulled into the setting and experience of being in a war trench. It was brutal and harsh in those conditions. Mr. Ring puts the reader right into the scenes. He also has great dialogue between the characters that drew me into their inner turmoils, feelings, and gut wrenching choices.
I can't imagine how difficult it would have been to choose between family and country. He weaves in a love story that makes the novel even more heart wrenching but humanistic.

My husband and I both read the book. We found it rich in history, rich in character connection and development, and rich in how much people will sacrifice for their country and families. We are so grateful and honored to have read this impressive story from Mr. Ring's own family history. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my heartfelt own. 

                                         Goodbye, Orchid

By

Carol VanDenHende

When I open a novel and the first pages are a "gotcha" like the pages of Goodbye, Orchid, I know I'm in for an exceptional read. Oh, my gosh! Is this ever one of those books! I have a book hangover from such an amazing story written with intricate details and emotional passages that took my heart and tore it to pieces. I find myself almost speechless trying to form words for a review. Wow! How Ms. VanDenHende took me into the emotional depths of her characters is beyond description. This is the story of Phoenix and Orchid. Perfect and ambitious Phoenix. Gentle and sweet Orchid. Just like the beautiful cover of this book and the shattering orchid, would these characters lives break into pieces and will they find a way to put their lives back together? I couldn't tear myself away from the pages. This was more than a casual read, this was an experience. One that touched me so deeply and even personally.

There are no guarantees in life and in an instant, everything can change. Phoenix's life is forever changed because of a devastating accident. The trauma he experiences is brutal physically and emotionally. What Ms. VanDenHende created in this story is a masterpiece in human resilience. It's not easy, pretty or quick. Sometimes deep and dark. But it's possible to rise from the ashes. She masterfully and meticulously takes the reader into the depths of Phoenix's recovery and his feelings for Orchid, through various stages. Not only the physical but the mental stages as well. There are so many emotions that were pulled out of me through her characters. Each character written with purpose and depth. I'm in awe of her talent and her exceptional ability to put me in the pages like she did. I especially appreciate her compassion for what these traumatic injuries do to people. This is a story that will be in my heart for a very long time.

This is an amazing read! My review is so inadequate for how powerful and emotional this book is. It was unputdownable from the first compelling page to the last touching words. Yes, Phoenix and Orchid expanded my heart. I want to thank Ms. VanDenHende for the honor of reading her story that so sincerly came from her heart and from the inspiration of combat wounded veterans. This is an extraordinary novel! One of the best I've read this year. It's so worth much more than five stars! This is my honest and heartfelt review of a book that ranks as one of my top 5 this year.

 

The Book of CarolSue

By

Lynne Hugo

"There's an upside and a downside to every way of life. It was the downside of this life that I hadn't missed when I was in Atlanta." (CarolSue)

This book had my emotions jumping all over the place. What a heart tugging story of a family that drew me in from the first page. I haven't read the first book "The Testament of Harold's Wife" but I had no problem finding myself lost in the pages of this book and not feeling confused in the least bit. Ms. Hugo wove CarolSue's story with finesse, humor, heartbreak, and lots of family drama. CarolSue finds herself living with her best friend and sister, Louisa, back on the home farm in Indiana after her beloved husband, Charlie dies. This isn't what she expected at this stage in her life. How does she cope and what purpose will she have in this animal menagerie with family and friends that are off the "normal" chart?

Ms. Hugo has crafted her characters with amazing detail. Each one is as individual and unique as any I've read. They are written with deep convictions and emotions. I couldn't help but feel for them as the story evolved. She writes them into a story that is dramatic yet her humor lightens the seriousnesses. She places the characters in scenarios that are relevant to the times but she does it with sensitivity. I had my heart yanked apart at certain places in the book and yearned for a resolution that was satisfying to the characters and for me. Then there were scenes that I laughed out loud. Especially at the sarcastic lines. This story is filled with so much that made it a great read....like a Glitter Jesus, afternoon "napping", a baby that is missing a mother, and the "Plan" are among a few of them.

There are also profound lines that perfectly blend with the story and will stick with me for a long time. They made me think but also touched me with the insightful meanings.
"Isn't it strange how we think one thing is going to happen and then something so utterly different happens? Inside we are so disappointed and have no idea that life might just have handed us a huge gift. And it's so difficult to remember to be open to that possibility, isn't it? Because we never know when that might be the case."
"....love isn't measured in length of time, but in tenderness and gratitude."

This is a story of a famly's love for each other. Through the thick and thin of life's challenges, they stick together. It's not always pretty but it's the right thing to do. This was a great getaway read for me. I want to thank Ms. Hugo for the privilege of reading her very entertaining story. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my heartfelt own.

                          Christmas Rings

By

Tess Thompson

What a great premise and collaboration of these authors to create this Soul Sisters at Cedar Mountain Lodge series.  Knowing the work of the authors involved in this collection, it is no doubt a heartwarming, emotional escape with the characters in the stories.  Christmas Rings is Tess Thompson's Cedar Mountain Lodge series contribution.  Her superb hometown, storytelling talent shines through in this sweet novella.  This is Alissa and Jed's story.   

Alissa and Jed. Two people from totally different walks of life.  Two people who have a chemistry and attraction despite those differences.   Alissa is a kindergarten teacher by day.  She loves what she does and she has a heart for the children but she needs to supplement her income so she moonlights at a gentlemen's club as a cocktail waitress.   Enter Jed Marsh.

Jed is the son of  Marsh Vodka magnate owners and the business is soon to be passed down to him.  His parents are controlling and no woman has ever been "good enough"  for their son.  How in the world will Alissa ever be accepted?   His heart is totally devoted to Alissa but at what cost?   

I love Tess Thompson's characters.  They are so easily to connect with and to become a part of the story.  Every single character is filled with emotions and stories that pull at my mine. The emotions are there from the amazing way Tess Thompson creates word stories in her books. Stories that draw you in and make you feel a part of them. She puts the reader into the lives of her characters in such a deep and involved way that you can't help but become a part of them. 

Ms. Thompson pulls her readers in and makes them feel the emotions throughout her books.  Christmas Rings is a tender love story that made me yearn for the HEA for Alissa and Jed.  The supporting cast of characters are perfectly entwined around Alissa and Jed's story.  This is such a sweet novella and I enjoyed every page from the front cover to the back.  I especially appreciated her dedication to sisters.   We have bonds through family and bonds through people who are our chosen families.  Love can overcome.   

I want to thank Ms. Thompson for the honor and privilege of reading another one of her amazing books.  It is a great read and touched my heart.   Thank you!  All opinions and thoughts in this review are my heartfelt own.

 

                                                                                                                                                                                 Blue String

By

Tess Thompson

Blue String starts out with a gut-wrenching first chapter. I was drawn into the world of Teagan and Wyatt immediately! The sparks, the chemistry, the attraction, the pure romance of a Tess Thompson novel is "strung" throughout the pages of this book. Ms. Thompson adds characters that bring out emotional feelings that grab hold and I can't help but fall in love with them. She places them in situations that draw on my every desire to see them overcome and find their HEA through determination and strong relationships between the characters.

This is the love story of Teagan and Wyatt. Teagan is the youngest of the Lanigan clan and the most fiesty. She's a redhead with a temper but I couldn't help loving her. She is such a loving mom to her son, Chris, and she wants him to have a wholesome and secure childhood growing up. She puts her career on hold and they move back to her roots and family in Peregine, Idaho. A small hometown that is the perfect place to raise her son with uncles, aunts, and a mother she's a bit disconnected with. (This makes an interesting element to the story.) A place where loyalties, traditions, and a slower pace abound. It's also where she's retreated after a passionate, non-committed relationship with country super star Wyatt Black. "Never in my life had I been as drawn to a man, both physically and mentally. Which was exactly the problem."

Wyatt Black has been through a life-changing, traumatic event. It's left him broken and devastated for the families and people it affected. His creativity and drive are nonexistent and he can't get into his singing and writing music with the horrors that invade his mind. The only thing he thinks about is Teagan and what they had together. She's his hope. She's the love of his life and he is bound and determined to prove to Teagan she's the only one for him.

Tess Thompson has a talent for writing stories that are from her heart. Every single character is filled with emotions and stories that pull at my mine. The emotions are there from the amazing way Tess Thompson creates word stories in her books. Stories that draw you in and make you feel a part of them. She puts the reader into the lives of her characters in such a deep and involved way that you can't help but become a part of them. Then she places them in settings that I just want to close my eyes and step into. Blue String is another fantastic read by the super talented Tess Thompson. I loved reading Teagan's and Wyatt's story.

Thank you, Tess Thompson, for the wonderful read and the story of Teagan and Wyatt. The entire series has been a journey with a family I loved spending time with. A great ending to a great series. My heart is happy! All thoughts and opinions in this review are my heartfelt own.

The Girl in the Saffron Espadrilles

By

G. C. Allen

G. C. Allen's spectacular talent shines bright in Book 5 of the Lorriaine Innis series, The Girl in the Saffron Espadrilles. I have become such a huge fan of this series and of G. C. Allen! There is no doubt in my mind that when I open the pages of the next book in the series, I'm going to have another unexpected, wild and crazy, twisted and turning, highs and lows, emotional rollercoaster of an adventure with Lorriane Innis and the unique characters G. C. Allen has crafted with such great care. Each one's individualities are like none other. Just like in the novels and how Lorraine Innis has become a phenom in the series, she has become one for me, too. From cover to cover, this story is a jam-packed, non-stop series of events that are unpredictable and surprising. It's a "hold on and don't let go" as G. C. Allen takes us on the continuing back story of Chesney and Valerie and just how they become involved with each other. It's a deeper understanding as to the people they have become because of the events that have shaped their lives.

G.C. Allen begins to pull Chesney and Valerie's parallel stories together and we finally meet Martina Fergus...the nicest person ever. She's full of tenderness and compassion. The reason we have a Lorraine Innis. Lorraine's mission is to find justice for Martina and this book tells us why. The three character's stories become entwined with each other in insanely humorous, entertaining, witty, and sometimes gut wrenchingly raw emotional scenes. I went through so many emotions from laughing out loud, a LOT, to crying my eyes out. G.C. Allen writes intricate passages that blew my mind many times. She's a storyteller extraordinaire!

The entire cast of characters bring the whole wild story together. I love the characters in these books. They are some of the most outrageous and unforgettable of any I've ever encountered! Characters with names that had me ROFLing, ones who make me cringe and ones I love like family. Their escapades, capers, stunts and situations are astounding at times. Just imagine scenes that involve a book club, a class reunion, a giant squid, a traffic stop, a Donny Osmond event and many, many more that keep this story action packed and never a dull moment!

The background stage has been set, Lorraine is still on her "mission" and Valerie still doesn't know what Peter Liverot told Lorraine....I can't wait to find out where the story goes next in The Girl in the Blood Red Stilettos!

I have said this before and I really feel strongly about saying it again. I enjoy G.C. Allen's writing style and how it makes me feel. It's a feel good kind of read that goes in so many unexpected ways. Books 4 and 5 are a bit different from the first three in that I had some very deep emotions from the characters. For me it's a great author who can draw that kind of emotion out of me. G.C. Allen has this gift.

There is so much in these books that I can't begin to express how much I really hope other readers open up the series and are pulled into the world of Lorraine Innis. I am so totally glad that I did. I highly recommend this series. I'm definitely the kind of a girl who loves Lorraine Innis and G. C. Allen. This book is another unputdownable, can't turn the pages fast enough, read!

I want to gratefully express my thanks to G.C. Allen for the honor and privilege of reading this fantastic novel. Words are inadequate for what it means to be a part of this adventure. This is a five star and beyond read for me. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my heartfelt own.

 

Forever Home

By

Tammy L. Grace

As this Hometown Harbor series seems to be coming to an end, Tammy L. Grace brings us Izzy's story.   This is a story of a woman who is trying to find her place in life after semi-retiring to Friday Harbor.  A new beginning.  A place where she feels connected, where she could slow down and enjoy life at her pace.  It all seems like a perfect plan but life can still be challenging when it comes to family and the past.  People who tend to make life difficult.  Izzy has family and friends to support her in the small island community and it's these who help her throughout the story and traversing the family perils.

Ms. Grace has created a cast of characters who could be anyone I would meet or know in my own life.  Characters that are intimately and deeply created.  I felt the connection with Izzy and her emotions as her story unfolds.  I especially felt the kindrid spirit between Izzy and the sweet golden retriever, Sunny, as the pup chose Izzy to be her people. "Dogs have a way of knowing exactly what we need, don't they?"  "No matter your struggle, when you have a dog, you're never alone."  I love that Ms. Grace writes her love of dogs, in particular, golden retrievers, into the stories.  They become a vital piece to the whole and add the feel that "a house is not a home without the love of a dog".  

Izzy's story is one filled with issues that many families face. Her daughter, Mia, is disrespectful and was always a "daddy's girl" blaming her mom for the divorce of her parents. "Mothers and daughters, huh? It's always more complicated than it looks."   Shannon is the "black sheep of the family".  The sister whose irresponsible acts make things hard and uncomfortable for the family.  These two characters were so well written, that I found myself depising them many times. They were difficult to care about because of their self-centeredness and selfishness.  Just the way a good "bad" character should be.  

 But then there were the heartfelt, tender and compassionate characters.  They pulled at my heart and brought so much peace and calm to Izzy's life.  Colin is a heartthrob with his Scottish accent,  brilliant blue eyes and gentle caring ways to Izzy.  Ms. Grace built their relationship with a perfection of timing through the pages of the book.  Sigh!   The supporting characters bring a completeness to the story.  They unite together and enhance Izzy's story to perfection.  Add the cast of canine pooches  and it's a sweet, heartwarming story I loved reading.   

No less a part of the story is the setting.  It's a vivid visit to the Pacific Northwest San Juan Islands.  The beauty of the harbor and scenic shores.  The ferry rides across the water and the surrounding areas.  The quaint little shops and restaurants with friendly proprietors make the story even more special.  It was a virtual escape through the descriptive words Ms. Grace is so talented to put to paper.   

This book had such a heartwarming feel to it as I was reading it.  I love Tammy L. Grace's stories and this one was a wonderful and pleasurable read.  I want to thank Ms. Grace for the honor and privilege of spending time in the pages of this book.  It was an escape that made my heart happy.  It's a marvelous five star read for me.   All opinions and thoughts in this review are my heartfelt own.

 

The Moonlight Child

By

Karen McQuestion

I have just finished a novel that tugged at my heart with such an emotional pull. Just like a Karen McQuestion story does.  I love her books!    This is a story of a little girl no one knows exists except for the family she's living with.  A little girl named Mia.  She's known no other life except the one she's in. She knows something is different about her place in the family but she is so innocent and trusts what she's told.   She's such a sweetheart and all she wants to do is please her "family".  

This is also the story of Niki.  A young 18 year old girl just out of the foster care system with no family to live with.  An attorney, Amy,  has taken an interest in Niki and suggests she get her feet on the ground by staying with Amy's mother Sharon.  This is a perfect scenario that puts Niki and Sharon together and the story plot that unfolds when they become suspicious by what they see in the house across the backyard.  A little girl doing dishes late at night (The Moonlight Child) and suspicion arises as to why this would be.  

This book was so emotionally charged.  I went through the gamut of all the emotions possible with the characters, Ms. McQuestion has created in this story.  "Niki had learned that people had layers, and sometimes what lurked underneath the prettiness could be ugly and cruel."  The characters in this book are so well developed.  The way Ms. McQuestion brings them to life with their emotions and traits is so realistic.  They became people I could very well have met and gotten to know.   Whether they are likable or ones I dislike with a passion, each one is minutely detailed and individualistic.  I could feel their characteristics and what kind of people they were.  

 I fell in love with little Mia.  My heart was wrapped around her little finger. Such a sweetie.  No matter what was going on, all she wanted to do was please.  She has a connection and attachment to Griswold, "her faithful canine companion"....that really touched my heart.  Griswold is so loyal to her.  

 

  Niki and Sharon built a relationship that was so beautiful. One that was meant to be and so natural for them.  Niki just needed someone to love her and Sharon was there. Niki is just who Sharon needs in her life, too.  

  My heart broke for Wendy and Edwin.  Their daughter has been missing for years and there's been no word from her.  Their hope is she will come home.  How heartbreaking and devastating. 

 Then there were the characters I really despised.  My mom instincts kicked in and couldn't believe how narcissistic Suzette was.  She is a crazy mess and so self-centered.  Her husband, Matthew and son, Jacob, were victims of her self-absorption and ego.  

This book is so very good. The premise of the story is fascinating.   It's complex but written as to build the story up so that I had to keep turning the pages.  There was suspense, drama, secrets, mystery, and tragedy.  There is also loyalty, love, friendships, determination and truth seeking.   It's a novel that I had a very hard time putting down.  From the poignant beginning chapter Ms. McQuestion captured me into the pages and took me on an intensely riveting ride to the climactic end.  Very well done!  

I want to thank the author, Karen McQuestion, for the honor of reading this fantastic book. All opinions and thoughts are my heartfelt own. It is definitely a five star read for me.

 

The First To Lie

By
Hank Phillippi Ryan

"Man is not what he thinks he is, he is what he hides."  Andre Malraux 

Hank Phillippi Ryan captured my attention right away as I read the prologue of this book.  There are some very interesting questions to ask yourself in these few short paragraphs.   Fascinating things to think about and "what ifs" that might happen if you could "start over" and become a different person.   It sounds like an easy or good thing to do but is it really?  You might be able to change your outer appearance but the inner you is always there. But "When the stakes are life and death, did a few lives matter?"   With this intriguing scenario and "All you have to do is lie." as the motivation, Ms. Ryan weaves a thrilling story that took me on a wild ride.  

The story revolves around three main characters.  Ellie, Nora and Meg.  Each one with an agenda that involves the Big Pharma company Pharminex, the Vanderwald empire,  and the miracle drug Monifan.  Just who are each of these characters and what are they after?  How are they connected to each other and why?  Ms. Ryan then adds characters and twists that had my head spinning.  She weaves and unravels and weaves some more and kept me guessing as each page was turned.   The schemeing, the lies, the deceitfully revenge driven characters had me all twisted up in a thrilling chesslike plot.  What I really liked was not knowing how this would all play out and kept me reading to the surprising end.  

I liked this passage from Alice in Wonderland Ms. Ryan used in the story.  For me it sums up the characters and the mystery surrounding them:

"I know who I was when I got up this morning, Alice had told the Caterpillar in her most favorite book, but I think I must have been changed several times since then.  I can't explain myself, I'm afraid, because I'm not myself, you see."  

This was a great read for me.  I love Ms. Ryan's writing style and her ability to put me into the "minds" of her characters.  I could feel her "investigative inquisitiveness" througout the book and kept thinking about how some of the scenario might have come from the Front Pages of real life events. Taking those situations and creating a thrilling, psychological mystery in "The First To Lie". 

I want to thank Netgalley and especially Ms. Ryan for the honor and privilege of reading her page turning novel.  All opinions and thoughts in this review are my sincere own.  This is a great read! 

No Place Too Far

By

Kay Bratt

"The gift of "ohana"-the Hawaiian word symbolizing family...." 

  Family is everything to the people of Hawaii.  Love, devotion, trust, and dependability.  All these things make a family that is bonded together no matter what.  The definition of family can be different for everyone.  In "No Place too Far",   Kay Bratt continutes the story from the first book in the series, "True to Me" of how Quinn has found her family in Maui after more than 30 years of being separated. But the past threatens the future. Part of the past is Quinn's best friend, Maggie, who's come to Maui with her young son, Charlie.  As soon as I opened this book up, I felt like I was right back with old friends and family.   Ms. Bratt has a story telling gift to create stories that pull at your heart.  Ones that have a message and meaning to them.   I know with a Kay Bratt novel,  I'm going on an emotional adventure with the characters to places that are as vividly detailed as if I were there myself.  She has such a gift of bringing the reader on an emotional journey and adventure with her characters. 

Quinn's past is one she's trying to keep secret in order to protect someone in her family.  Keeping secrets is all good until they aren't secret anymore.  Now she's in a dilemma of losing what took her so long to find again.  Will ohana be enough to overcome the challenges that threaten to ruin her place with them?  Will her "honu" be there to protect her through as it was before?  

Maggie has a past, too.  One that has haunted her and caused her to try to run from it and disappear.  One that she will do anything to keep her son, Charlie, safe from as well as herself.  But the past is in danger of catching up to them and shattering any sense of peace and security she's worked so hard to find.  "She wanted to be strong.  Competent. Self-sufficient."  Who will be there for her as she faces the worst?  

This is a story about family...related and unrelated...but bonded and connected by love.  This is a story about hardships, struggles, fears, guilt, secrets, and uncertainty.  But it's also about trust, determination, friendships that are more like family, traditions, and loyalty.  Ms. Bratt weaves in drama, suspense, and heart wrenching side characters with stories that bring it all together in an unputdownable read.  She throws in some mystery to add to the mix and kept me turning the pages.  

Not only do I become invested in the characters but the setting in this series is like a character itself by how brilliantly Ms. Bratt creates the scenes in word pictures I could visualize in my mind.  I was again taken on a philosophical and cultural tour of a place I have never been but totally feel like I learned so much about it through the characters and their experiences in Maui and the surrounding areas. It's a virtual visit that had me walking in the rainforest, hearing the waterfalls, smelling the flora, and seeing the lushness as if I were there. 

Then there's Woodrow...He stole my heart.   The true definition of the love of a dog for his owner.  Maggie's quiet shaggy service dog.  Kay Bratt's ability to tap into the devotion of a dog and put into words that faithfulness is truly from her love of dogs.  I knew that feeling in my heart with each passage Woodrow was written in.  "Woodrow looked up.  His soulful brown eyes locked on Maggie's, instantly calming her.  He had that way about him."  The subject of why Maggie needed a service dog touched close to home when I read the "From the Author" passages at the end of the book.  I am very grateful for her thoughts and candor.   Her heart to help others.  

Kay Bratt writes stories from her heart. I become a part of them as I'm reading them.  No Place Too Far is no exception.  I am very grateful for the opportunity of reading this novel. Kay Bratt brings it every time with her heart and emotions that pour out on the pages.  I will wait with anticipation for the next book in the series to see which character's stories Ms. Bratt brings to us By The Sea...there's a hint at the end in those notes!  I want to thank Netgalley and especially Kay Bratt for the honor and privilege of reading this continuation of a great series.  I loved it!   All opinions and thoughts in this review are my heartfelt own.  Maika'i nui loa.... (very, very good) five tropical stars!

Dignity and Grace

By

Alison Ragsdale

Dignity and Grace.....what a perfect title for this amazing book!  There are so many feelings going through my heart as I gather my thoughts about this poignant story of a young 11 year old girl who loses her mother to a devastating disease.  A mother she's connected to through love,  the power of music and the cello.   I loved the character of Iona from the very beginning of the book.  She grabbed my heart and didn't let go.  The turmoil and struggles she experiences after the loss of her mom, tore my heart open.  The excruciating pain of losing her mother and also losing her desire of playing the cello.  ""It makes me sad, but when I start to play, the music brings so much with it." She said."The weight of the cello, the smell of the rosin, the feel of the strings."  She tapped her fingertips together. "It's just Mum.  All of it.""  Passages like this brought tears to my eyes.  So many tears. 

The way Ms. Ragsdale wove the story together was so unique.  When Iona turns 21 she receives a letter from her father whom she's avoided since her mother's death.  A letter her mother, Grace, wrote specifically for her.  This puts Iona on a path to search for answers surrounding her mother's last days with her and why she made the choices she did.  It's a painful and difficult journey.  One in which I felt I was traveling with Iona as she walked through each new twist and shocking surprise.  ".....her overriding hope was that with each stop she might learn something about that priceless week she'd missed out on with her mother."  

The supporting characters in the book are no less endearing.  They complimented the journey Iona was taking in a perfect way.  They supported her and were there for her with love, advice and compassion.    Each one guiding and encouraging her to the next step in her journey.  They, too, are written in depth and I felt I knew them well.  

Alison Ragsdale's stories are so deeply emotional and written with such intricate attention to details. The story is never rushed but every word is built upon the ones before to create a passionately moving story between the covers of the book.   I have read other books by Ms. Ragsdale and each one has touched me in ways I never knew a book would.  Dignity and Grace is no exception.  I have just finished this one and my emotions are raw and exposed in a most Alison Ragsdale way.   She has the ability to trancend words on a page and craft a story that I become completely immersed in.  From the beginning prologue my heart was captured.   

I not only emotionally read this book as Iona searched for answers, I also experienced a visit to the vistas of Scotland through the vivid descriptions Ms. Ragsdale interspersed throughout the pages. Again, the attention to details is exceptional.  In my mind I could vividly see the settings of each scene with a clarity as if I were actually there.  I "lived" this book with Iona.  A story of "Dignity and Grace" and the journey to discover the meaning of it.  

I want to sincerely thank  Ms. Ragsdale for the honor and privilege of reading this emotional journey I took in  this fantastic book.  It truly touched my heart.  All opinions and thoughts in this review are my heartfelt own.

A Teacher's Prayer

By

Tammy Mentzer Brown

John 15:16 "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit-fruit that will last-and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you."

This is more than a book about a young girl who's life is changed when her father is tragically killed. It's an outpouring of gratitude to a loving God and the people He placed in her life as she grew up. This is the story of the author.

When Tammy's father is killed, her life takes a turn from the loving, secure and caring home he had provided to a tumultuous and often abusive childhood that her alcoholic mother seemed unable to change. This is the story of a young girl who is exposed to so much a child shouldn't have to endure. Early in her life she's invited to VBS, an escape from the house for a few hours, and where God reveals Himself to her. Life is still difficult but through it all, God places the people in her life to bring her through. Ms. Brown graciously and heart wrenchingly shares her story through words of grace and love. Her gratitude for those people God used in her life makes my heart warm. People might not realize the difference they make in another person's life, but God uses them to guide and provide. She shares so many situations that these people carried her through. This story is from an author's grateful heart. "......sometimes friends come and go in our lives, but we should always give thanks to God for them. How each person we encounter has a special purpose for entering our lives at that time, whether it is a lesson for them to learn or one for us. Someone, maybe even both, will benefit from the relationship."

There are passages that broke my heart. There are passages that made my heart soar with hers. The story is such an inspiration and what a testimony to the loving God she serves. There is power in prayer and a God who is there no matter what the situation and circumstances. I especially liked the scripture verses Ms. Brown quoted at the end of each chapter. They are the foundation of what the chapter was about. The promises that God kept as she shares her testimony.

I am so honored to have the privilege to read this inspirational story of hope, grace and love. The grace of God is awesome and this story is truly one that touched my heart. Thank you, Tammy Mentzer Brown!

Departed: David and Sara

By

Tess Thompson
What I really love about reading a series is that I get so invested in the characters. I have LOVED reading the Cliffside Bay series so very much. Each book has focused on a couple with challenges and obstacles that seemed to be too large to overcome but true love conquers all. This series has characters who are like family to each other and have become a fictional family to me. They all pull together to bring each couple through the fires and make them stronger together. "Departed" is the last book in the series and it's about David and Sara. Two people, who have endured unthinkable tragedies, finding themselves drawn to each other in spite of their initial dislike of the other. "We have all the worst stuff in common, but maybe we can help each other because of it."

I have been drawn to the main characters, David and Sara from the prior novels. Their story is one that had me hoping against hope for them to find a way through their pasts and self protection to open their hearts for a future with each other. Ms. Thompson has a way she puts sizzle and sparks between the characters and I couldn't stop reading. From the way Sara and David's lives are brought together to the development of their relationship....I was in it with them. I fell in love with these people and felt like I was part of the "family" as they worked through the circumstances they were in. The co-characters were woven into the story beautifully. Ms. Thompson brings each of the former couples into this book and blends them all into one final novel that is so wonderfully fulfilling. I loved each and every one.

There were so many lines in the book that reveal the talent of Tess Thompson in her writing. Some of my favorite ones are these:

"We're made to love, not hate. Take it from me, holding on to the past means you can't live in the present."
"A masterpiece in motion. The perfect design in a living woman. No matter how hard he tried, God's creations would always beat the ones of his own imagination."
"But the one thing I've always known is that family matters more than anything else. We're family here, some by blood and others by heart."

Ms. Thompson writes with heartfelt passion. Every single character is filled with emotions and stories that pull at my heart. The emotions are there from the amazing way Tess Thompson creates word stories in her books. Stories that draw you in and make you feel a part of them. The setting of Cliffside Bay is a seaside community I long to visit and spend time in. I had this exact honor by reading this incredible series. I want to thank Ms. Thompson and I have sincerely enjoyed being in Cliffside Bay with these wonderful characters. What a great escape! All thoughts and opinions in this review are my heartfelt own.

A Dog's Chance

By

Casey Wilson

After reading Casey Wilson's first book called "A Dog's Hope" I was thrilled and honored to have the opportunity to read "A Dog's Chance".   Ms. Wilson writes the best novels with dogs as her main characters.  I've always been a dog lover and reading books that feature dogs is just the best for me!  This book is no exception.....a best! 

It's not always the person who finds the dog but the dog who finds and chooses its person.  There is a connection between them that's just meant to be.  Duke is that kind of a dog.  He is an abandoned "dump dog" puppy and he longs to be in a family.  Because of destiny or fate, he happens upon a very sad elderly man, Arthur, and he just knows he can comfort him. This is his person!   There is an instant bond between them and that's where the story of Duke grabs my heart and takes me on his journey.   Dogs bring such joy into the lives of the people they choose and Duke is there for Arthur. 

Madison is a traveling nurse practioner and a single mom of a 14 year old daughter, Abbie, who's struggling with anxiety.  Madison's next assignment brings them to the town of Millbury.  This place just seems to be where they belong but there's a reason they can't get complacent and settle down.  Madison just can't become attached to anyone or anything. It's not worth the risk.   But....who can resist Duke?  He's such a lovable and intuitive golden retriever and connects with Abbie.  As does Madison connect with Arthur.  Now what will she do and how will she ever be able to leave this new family?

I love the way this story is written between the two POVs.  One is Duke's and the other is Madison's.   Ms. Wilson has created a dialogue with Duke's voice that is so unique, touching and compassionate.  She's put into "words" what those soulful eyes and expressions dogs have and what they would say if they could actually talk.  Duke is a very wise puppy and he loves through his heart.  "Dogs see what's inside, what's underneath, and we have a keen awareness of how humans are feeling and what's churning inside, deep below the surface."  Duke is so intune with his people.   Throughout the story, Ms. Wilson weaves Duke's instincts and connection to bring the characters together.

This story has so many of the "feels" that make it a great dog-lover story.  Duke channels his inner "Lassie" so many times.  One point in particular of the story.  I loved watching Lassie when I was a little girl and this book reminded me so much of that.  The love of a dog for his family.  Always faithful to protect and comfort.

Duke had challenges when he was a pup.  He was the runt of the litter and overlooked. But his mother encouraged him and told him he was "destined for greatness".   He is  loyal, devoted and loves unconditionally.  "Just because I was different and smaller, didn't mean I wasn't powerful.  Stature, breed, looks-all are labels that serve only to limit, but they don't determine our strength.  Dogs know what's on the outside isn't important; it's what's deep in your heart that defines you." I love Duke!!   He is a GREAT dog!

I am so honored to have read this book.  Ms. Wilson's wonderful gift of writing is even more incredible in the way she expresses the inner thoughts of the dog  characters she brings to life.  I love her dedication to her sweet pup, Izzy.  Dogs do heal hearts and bring joy.  This book is full of this.   Huge thanks to Ms. Wilson for the copy of this wonderful story.  I loved the journey with Duke and his family.  All opinions and thoughts in this review are my heartfelt own.

The Last Blue

By

Isla Morley

Wow!  Amazing! I didn't just read this book, I experienced this book!  I'm in a huge book hangover after finishing the last emotional page.  I closed the cover of this book a couple of days ago and I needed to soak and bask in the journey back in time  that I just spent with Jubilee and Havens as their love story unfolded.  It was like going into the pages and becoming a part of their story. It was a complete bonding with the characters, the remote location of Spooklight Holler, and the level of prejudice the Buford family suffered just because they were born "blue".  I love historical fiction and this book is a top reason that makes it so for me.   It was an unbelievable and unforgettable encounter with an epic read.  The love story of two people who were destined to be together through so many challenges just because one of them was different.  It's a story of how the power of love can overcome even the most difficult of times, situations and heartache.

For me this book is so worthy of high praises. There are so many emotions I felt that were as real as if I were experiencing them myself. This is the first book I've read by Isla Morley and I'm in awe of her talent to pull so much out of me with her extraordinary prose. Each page in this magnificent novel drew me deeper into the lives of the characters. I'm just mind boggled at the intimate and minute details that created a living journey for me to travel in the pages of this book.  Ms. Morley's writing is profound and filled with word portraits that filled my mind with detailed pictures.  Not only of the settings but also the emotions of the characters.  The horrors of what it was like being discriminated against and treated as inferior.  The level of prejudice and hatred was stark and blatant.  Raw and achingly painful.  But then she took me into the inner depths of the love between Jubilee and Havens.  The beautiful connection and true passion for one another.   Ms. Morley tenderly and intimately crafted their relationship and had my heart yearning for their lives to come together and be with one another.  The pacing was precise and perfect in creating their story.   "There are but three things over which a poor soul has no control: his birth, his death, and who he'll love, and anyone who tells  you an orderly tale about love has surely never encountered the real thing."  The passages of Haven's depth of feelings for Jubilee had my heart beating.  "He has the urge to unbutton his shirt, unhook his ribs, show her his heart."  "Such an unspoiled goodness will make a man want to pull rainbows from the sky and tie them around her neck."  How romantic is that!?  Such beautiful words.  I have so many passages highlighted that touched me in so many ways.  Words that blended the book together so perfectly.

This book is magnificently written. The characters are unforgettable.  I will carry a part of them with me for a very long time.  I will go back to what I said earlier about needing a couple of days to absorb all that is between the covers of this book.  I didn't want the book to end but I did, too.  It is an emotional read and I had tears as I read the last few pages.  It touched me heart and soul.  
I want to especially thank Ms. Morley for a copy of this book I am so, so honored to have read.  There are totally not enough stars or words I can give this book for how wonderful it is. One of my top five books this year.   All opinions and thoughts in this review are my heartfelt own.

Grounded in January

By

Savannah Hendricks

For a delightful "romcomdram" with a bit of suspense, this is a perfect book to pick up.  Kate Wilson has been struggling to find out why her life isn't what makes her happy.  She's not sure why. So she decides to return to her home town where she grew up to surprise her parents and search for answers.  One big hurdle in getting there, is her fear of flying.  Plus, add a few other anxieties and her klutziness, as she fearfully steps onto the plane, and I was pulled right into the pages.  Her flight is the beginning of a story that I enjoyed immensely. 

As her luck, or fate would have it, when Kate reaches her destination at her parent's house, lo and behold, they have taken a trip to Hawaii unbeknownst to her.  Now she's stranded in Washington and no where to go.  She decides to try and get a flight back to Arizona in spite of her great fear of flying.  But that wasn't meant to be, either.  There's a snowstorm and all fights are grounded.  Enter Oxnard (Ox) Swanson and the spark of a connection between them starts to smolder.   This is the essence of a Hallmark movie in the making! 

The characters in this story are so easy to connect to.   They are human with feelings and emotions that Ms. Hendricks wrote into them tenderly and had me empathizing with each one.  She adds  humor, drama, anxiety, doubts and scenes written in details that were easy to visualize and had me experiencing them along with the characters.  I especially liked the humor in the situations from Kate's accident proneness.  Or more her clumsiness.  It added to her adorable personality.   The way Ms. Hendricks wrote about Ox's MS diagnosis was with care and compassion.  His feelings and fears about what it meant for his future were heart tugging.   I absolutely loved the yellow lab, Bayou.  He was intuitive with both Kate and Ox.  He knew just when they needed him to comfort them and bring a calmness. 

This story is a sweet romance that touched my heart.  It's so well written and heartwarming.  The feelings that Ox and Kate had for each other were carefully and perfectly paced.  The walls they had up were chiseled away with the help of a wise and understanding guest at the inn, named Maggie.  She guided Kate and Ox to seek the answers for themselves with bits of nudging care.  The devotion and unconditional love of Bayou is so joyful and exactly how dog lovers feel about their fur babies.  He is such a great character in the book. 

This book was a feel-good, light escape for me.  It is a story about letting go and trusting in someone.  That love for another knowing they will be there for each other no matter what.  Together, love is what matters the most.  I liked this passage from the book that Maggie shares with Kate: "Faith and hope is all around me.  We can choose to be happy, even if we're missing a piece of our self."  

I want to thank Ms. Hendricks for the lovely copy of this book.  It is a fantastic five star novel for me.   I can't wait for the next one!  My granddaughter enjoyed her children's book "Nonnie and I" very much and the message she shares in it.  I am honored to have read this book and all thoughts and opinions in this review are my heartfelt own.