Monday, December 30, 2019

Carter's Last Race by Patrick Kelly

Carter's Last Race: A Time Travel Novel by [Kelly, Patrick]If given the chance to be 19 for a month, while keeping the knowledge that you had gained so far, what would you do? Carter grabs at the chance.
It is amazing to see how the author is able to bring different decades into the story which helped me to see how Carter was able to touch other's lives and how they touched him.
Carter went into this with a list of goals including training and running a marathon. As he goes abotu the training Carter grows in many ways.
Patrick Kelly has a way of writing that created a complex character which is good. There were times in the book that I liked Carter and others where I would become mad at what I saw as a waste of his time.
I was given the book by the author in exchange for my honest reviews. All opinions are my own.


Small Groups Made Easy

It is not easy to lead a small Bible Study Group. Many questions fill the mind. What are the expectations and will there be an interest?
The author of Small Groups Made Easy Ryan Lokkesmoe helps the leader to go into this position with more confidence. In the very first chapter he helps to make the role of a small group leader more clear. He also talks about personal challenges and spiritual concerns. He helped me to see that I do not need to be the perfect leader or be all knowledgeable about the Bible. His tips are easy to understand and to implement. He also includes short small group studies.
I felt that this book was very helpful and I believe the tips given can be used by any leader of a Bible group.
I was given this book by the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.



Friday, December 20, 2019

Daniel (Everyday Bible Commentary series)

Daniel (Everyday Bible Commentary series) by [Whitcomb, John C.]I enjoy reading these commentaries. They cover information in a way that I may not have seen before.
This commentary is written by John Whitcomb and is written in a conservative view. However, this did not sway my view one way or the other because it is written from a historical view of Daniel's time and then helped me see what is said to come.
After I review these books my husband will often take them to help him in his Bible study group that  he leads but it is also helpful to the student, such as my self.
This book takes the reader through the book of Daniel verse-by-verse. Which helps to obtain a better view than one that covers the entire book in general terms.
I was given this book by Moody Publishing in exchange for my honest review.


Friday, December 13, 2019

The Afternoon Tea Club by Jane Gilley

The Afternoon Tea Club: The new, most uplifting feel good fiction book to read in 2019 by [Gilley, Jane]Jane Gilley wrote a feel-good book with The Afternoon Tea Club.
Although it was difficult to become attached to any of the characters until half-way through, from that point on they became characters that the reader can care about.
I enjoy books that make me smile. Filled with friendship this is a good book to read.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Tuesday, December 10, 2019

Naturally, Kim's Knitting - Episode 189

The Vow by Felicity Goodrich

The Vow: A Novel by [Goodrich, Felicity]The Vow by Felicity Goodrich is a heart touching book. I had difficulty putting it down once I started it.
It takes place in Poland during WWII but the author doesn't spend too much time on the facts that many should know.
It moves quickly, and as the title suggests, it centers around a couple and a vow. Life doesn't help them to keep this vow, though plus their emotions make it difficult. It is a touching book.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.




Monday, December 9, 2019

Sit, Stay, Love

Sit, Stay, Love (Love Unleashed Book 1) by [Mentink, Dana]I love this book. Gina is a dog sitter for a professional baseball player, Cal. Cal's mother has a 12 year old dog which has passed on to Cal when she passed away. This is not the only thing going on in Cal's life though. He has a stalker, his father returned, a dog napper and Gina quirkiness. Cal also has to decide if he will forgive his father as God is wanting him to do.
The things that Tippy does in this book are so funny but this is what makes it such a nice story. The tears that will be shed will not be from sadness but from laughter.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.


Friday, November 29, 2019

A Sister’s Courage by Molly Green

A Sister’s Courage: An inspiring wartime story of friendship, bravery and love (The Victory Sisters, Book 1) by [Green, Molly]Molly Green wrote and interesting book, A Sister's Courage, about the women who became pilots in the ATA. This is also a historical romance between Raine, the female pilot and Dog and Alec. Doug was Raine's instructor when she was 14 and then during WWII. Alec is a young pilot. This book is filled with information about the ATA and women during the war. It is sweet and enjoying.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Monday, November 25, 2019

The Sheila Stories 1935 - 2005 by Patrick Kelly

The Sheila Stories: 1935 - 2005 by [Kelly, Patrick]A single father in Australia, worried that his daughters are not going to have a female influence in their lives creates The Sheila Stories.
These are wonderful stories which pulled at my heart. It was a hard book to put down. The characters were well written and drew me into the story, especially Sheila. The writer, Patrick Kelly is also able to paint a picture so I felt like I was there in the middle of everything.
I can see me reading these stories to my grandchildren when I visit them. Thank you for this wonderful set of stories.
I was given this book by NetGalley and BooksGoSocial in exchange for my honest review. Thank you so much. This book will be kept and re-read many times. Highest praise and recommendation.

Saturday, November 23, 2019

Grandmothering: Building Strong Ties with Every Generation

Being a grandmother, this book appealed to me on its cover alone. Inside, Kathleen Stassen Berger, is able to reach women who love their children in ways that they cannot express. She shows how to help grandchildren grow in scientific curiosity, with a political conscience and to determine their needs and to guide them,
It is a guide for every grandmother, no matter who they are. I love this book and recommend it all grandparents or grandparents to be.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.


Friday, November 22, 2019

Moments of Peace for Moms

This is a nice devotional for busy moms. Each page has a Bible reading along with a Scripture for the day. This is followed by a reflection for the day. I believe that this book can help moms have a positive moment for themselves. I highly recommend this book.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

A Tango Before Dying

A Tango Before Dying Georgie Shaw Cozy Mystery #7 (Georgie Shaw Cozy Mystery Series) by [Burke, Anna Celeste]This is a great book when you want to sit down to a quick book to read.
Madame Chantel, a ballroom champion, and Carol Ripley are discovered dead. Georgie and Jack, her husband are told to solve this case by Mad Max Marley. There are clues, and twist throughout the case. I found this to keep my attention throughout the book.
I recommend this book to mystery lovers.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.


Monday, November 18, 2019

The Child of Auschwitz by Lily Graham

The Child of Auschwitz: Absolutely heartbreaking World War 2 historical fiction by [Graham, Lily]This is an interesting book. I read this kind of book to get some insight to a world I cannot comprehend. The Child of Auschwitz is very well written. Eva is one of the many women who are in Auschwitz. This is her story.
The story line shifts from Eva's time with Michael, including the time of the persecution of the Jews during the war. The other time line tells about her time at Auschwitz, looking for Michael and the birth of their own child.
It is easy to see how endurance would be needed to survive this camp, but this book deals with so much more.
The author did a great deal of research to capture the feeling of the time and relate it in this book. She isn't afraid to tell about the horrors of the camp but she builds in a sense of empathy too.
I saw this work as a way to remember that happiness can be found even in the most horrid of places. The happiness may just last a moment but it give something to hold onto.
I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy historical fiction.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.


Snowdrops on Rosemary Lane Ellen Berry

Snowdrops on Rosemary Lane: A heartwarming read to curl up with this winter by [Berry, Ellen]I suppose our recent snow has made me in the mood for wintery books. Ellen Berry, author of Snowdrops on Rosemary Lane, created a fun book to read.
Lucy Riddock enjoyed spending her summers in Burley Bridge. It was while she was here that she found Rosemary Cottage. So for her 10th anniversary she encourages her husband to move here and make Rosemary Cottage a Bed and Breakfast.
As the story continues sh faces the sudden death of her husband in an accident. Then she meets a friend from her school years. The changes bring with them many questions as to her and her children's future or for Rosemary Cottage?
I enjoyed this book very much and I recommend it to readers of this genre. Even though it was part of a series which I had not read I was able to connect with the characters and the story easily. This book shows the importance of family and second chances. It made a home in my heart.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
#SnowdropsOnRosemaryLane #NetGalley


Wild Life by Keena Roberts

Wild Life: Dispatches from a Childhood of Baboons and Button-Downs by [Roberts, Keena]Keena Roberts is a girl divided. Some of her time is spent in Botswana on an island camp, but she also spends time at a Philadelphia private school. While in Philadelphia she is inundated by preppy school rules and hierarchy. This is the same girl that can sleep, and cook at a campsite and lives close to a baboon colony so her parents could study the animals.
This girl who enjoys dreaming and going on adventures isn't sure how to fit in with spoiled kids. She would rather be in Botswana where her primatologist parents taught her how to make bread and to carve bird whistles from palm nuts. 
This is a wonderful touching memoir by Keena Roberts. It shows how this girls America life influences her life in Botswana and vice versa. It is very funny at times but yet has its tender moments. It tells the story of a girl, coming of age, who is trying to find where she fits in. I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys nature and travel. This is a fun, educational book. 
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. 


Friday, November 15, 2019

Memories and Murder by Lynn Cahoon

Memories and Murder (A Tourist Trap Mystery Book 10) by [Cahoon, Lynn]I love cozy mysteries. They are easy to read yet have enough twists to keep my attention.
Memories and Murder, by Lynn Cahoon, is such a book and Lynn Cahoon is an exceptional writer in this genre.
This is part of a series but I was not lost a bit when I picked this title to read. Jill Gardner owns a combination coffee shop/bookstore in South Cove. Across the street from her shop is another owned by Harrold Snider. He was engaged to her Aunt Jackie until the aunt broke the engagement. Jill becomes suspicious when she discovers why.
I enjoyed this book so much and feel like this is a good addition to any cozy mystery collection.
I was given this book by NetGalley and Kensington in exchange for my honest review.


Christ Among Other gods

Christ Among Other gods: A Defense of Christ in an Age of ToleranceI feel that this book, Christ Among Other gods, is a great resource for understanding how and why Jesus Christ is above the other gods on Earth. I find it easy to accept others' views of religion without standing up for Jesus. He is sinless and is the only Truth we sould place faith in.
I recommend this book to any Christian as a reference and a reminder of what we should put our faith in.
I was given this book by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

Thursday, November 14, 2019

The Lilac Princess Wanda Luthman

I have a granddaughter who loves everything about princesses. It was no surprise when she also fell in love with the Lilac Princess. It is filled with the things that make this kind of story great. There is love, adventure, dragons and forgiveness. Having made a princess and dragon story for my little girl I loved it when she met the dragon in the lilac patch and then climbed aboard to fly. What a wonderful story filled with bravery and forgiveness.
Thank you to the author, Wanda Luthman for writing such an enchanting story.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Becoming C.S. Lewis by Harry Lee Poe

Becoming C. S. Lewis (1898–1918): A Biography of Young Jack Lewis by [Poe, Harry Lee]I found this book, Becoming C.S. Lewis, to be a well-researched volume. This is to be the first of three-volumes on the gentleman. It talks about the first 20 years of Lewis' life. His time in Northern Ireland, England and in WWI. He had his troubles during this time - his education was hit and miss, and difficulties with religion.
The author, Harry Lee Poe was able to use his research, including recent published letters, memoirs and more to show the details of Lewis' life,
I found this book to be very thorough and knowledgeable. I highly recommend it.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.


Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Revelations of Divine Love by Julian of Norwich

This work, Revelations of Devine Love, is not well known. Julian of Norwich questions existence and it can take the reader to deeper thinking. Her religious views we far advanced of others of that age. This book was enlightening and fascinating.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Daily Wisdom: 3-Minute Devotions for Women

This is a nice devotional that is easy to fit into any busy day. I found it to be enjoyable and it helped me to reflect on scripture each day.There are also questions for those that would like to take this mediation further.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.


The Solace of Stones by Julie Riddle

The Solace of Stones: Finding a Way through Wilderness (American Lives) by [Riddle, Julie]This is a beautifully written book. It takes the reader on a path from bad experiences to forgiveness of self. This is an inspirational read, but it will tear at the heart.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.


Sunday, November 10, 2019

Book Review: Perfect Joy by Kerry Walters

Perfect Joy: 30 Days with Francis of Assisi by [Walters, Kerry]I found this month-long devotional very insightful. My husband and I used it as our study for one month. It was not complicated but yet allowed us to use the life of Francis of Assisi to help us find joy.


Saturday, October 19, 2019

book Review: Sawbones Melissa Lenhardt

Sawbones by [Lenhardt, Melissa]This book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
When I opened Sawbones I felt like I was sitting with my father while he would regale in his westerns, especially if they were by Louis L'amour.
In this book Dr. Catherine Bennett left New York because she was accused of murdering a doctor by his wife. Bennett doesn't have any idea why the wife would do this and she does not have an alibi for the time in question. After changing her name to Laura Elliston, she felt she would be safe. Unfortunately some one recognized her so she went to Colorado and the wild territories. This proves to be a dangerous choice but she decides to make the best of it.
The writing is very good as I was transported to the West and felt the story of Bennett/Elliston was touching. Very good book.

Friday, October 18, 2019

The Joy of Advent

This is a lovely book for Advent. It is filled with comfort and joy. Pope Francis made this a book filled with reflection and what better time than at the Advent.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Thursday, October 17, 2019

The Atonement by Beverly Lewis

The Atonement by [Lewis, Beverly]I know when I read a book by Beverly Lewis I will come away from it feeling at peace. Her writing is amazing. I feel like I can connect with each of her characters easily and like I am a part of the story. The Atonement is a very good book filled with Christian love and faith in God.

Monday, September 30, 2019

In the Kitchen with Grandma

I don't get to see my grandchildren nearly as often as I would like so when we visit, I like to have activities we can do that they may remember. This book is fantastic. There are seasons of cooking for the section. I think this is creative. Some of the recipes that I cannot wait to try with my grandchildren include the mac 'n' cheese cups and the scones. I think this is a great cookbook for anyone that wants to cook with children.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.


The Summer Before the War by Helen Simonso

The Summer Before the War: A Novel by [Simonson, Helen]I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I loved this book! It was a little slow at the start but very soon I was captivated by the story. Even though this book is about the war, it is not a book that will bring the reader down. The characters are well-written and some that I will remember.

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Book Review: Jesus In Me

Anne Graham Lotz creates books that help Christians grow in their walk with God. This book made me excited. It is inspiring as it shares the author's testimony. As you read you come across scripture, her experiences and how these can be used to help the Christian learn to walk more closely with God.
As I read I was able to reflect many of the testimonies with times in my life where I have struggled or even looking forward to when I may come across these times. I felt that the author wrote honestly in a way that I was able to relate with.
I was given this book by Multnomah in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.




Wednesday, September 18, 2019

More Than A Promise

More Than a Promise by [Herne, Ruth Logan]I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
This was a beautiful story, written with great emotion. Ruth Logan Herne writes with her heart and soul and that's why her books are so precious. The reader feels the heart of each character, even the children, in her books. And her spiritual themes are just wonderful, too. I enjoyed every minute of this one and am now looking forward to her next book.
I highly recommend this book.

Margeau Chapeau: a new perspective on classic knit hats

Margeau Chapeau: a new perspective on classic knit hatsI was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

I have been a knitter for over 50 years. I enjoy knitting most items but am always looking for a challenge or a new pattern. Margeau Chapeau: A New Perspective on Classic Knit Hats is a great book for my needs. There are a variety of techniques such as brioche or fair isle, both of which I wanted to try. Plus there are patterns for the beginner to the intermediate level. This is a great book for those knitters who are like me and enjoy knitting new patterns or for those that enjoy knitting hats.
Each pattern is written out using knitting language that is familiar to even the beginner and the illustrations are beautiful. 



Book Review: Sisi: Empress on Her Own

Sisi: Empress on Her Own: A Novel by [Pataki, Allison]This touching book is the sequel to the Accidental Empress. I did not read the first book, however, I became so engrossed in this book that I will read the first book soon. This is a historical novel, which is the reason I asked for it. It is filled with the duty that nobles had in the time. They have no say in who they marry, so quite often they end up unhappy, they have everyday filled with rules and correct way of doing everything. It is very well written and I found myself in the position of not wanting to put it down once I began reading it.
History buffs will want to read this book but have tissues at hand for the parts that pull on your heartstrings.


Sunday, September 15, 2019

The Best Place on Earth

The Best Place on Earth: StoriesThis was a good collection of short stories.
I was given this book by the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Thursday, September 5, 2019

Book Review: The English Son

The English Son: The Amish Millionaire Part 1 by [Brunstetter, Wanda E., Brunstetter, Jean]Before I begin I thought that I had reviewed this book before, but after re-reading it I realized that this was a different book. This book is the first of the Amish Millionaire series by Wanda and Jean Brunstetter. 
Joel Byler, in my opinion, was an impulsive man. He purchased an car which was going to keep him from buying a ring for Kristi Palmer, his fiancee. This has made him act differently to Kristi and this confuses her. 
Joel then goes to ask money of his father, who turns him down. He was going back home when there was an accident.
This book is an easy book to get through and has enough twists and turns to keep the reader turning the pages.

The authors are masters at their trade and I felt this book reflects this.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.


Book Review: The Prophetess

The Prophetess (Daughters of the Promised Land Book #2): Deborah's Story by [Smith, Jill Eileen]The story of Deborah, in the Bible, is a story that some pass over. I find it fascinating. In this book she is one of the characters in the book who are calling to God to help save the Israelite from the oppression of Sisera and Jabin.
 Deborah is called on to lead them but the story is about Israel and how they face worshiping of idols and other issues.
The author did research Deborah in the Bible and stayed true as far as the biblical story goes. I enjoyed this book as it helped me to see Deborah from a different angle.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. 


Thursday, August 29, 2019

Dear Grandchild, this is me

What a wonderful book. This book is filled with questions for a grandparent and is meant to be passed on to their grandchildren. There is plenty of space to elaborate on answers, place photos and share memories. This is a hardcover book yet is made to lay open to help ease writing on each page. The book covers different stages of a grandparent's life beginning with information about beginning years through being a grandparent. I also enjoy the other sections, such as a cooking section, and travel. I cannot say enough good things about this book. I am going to fill it up for my own grandchildren.
I received an advance reading copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The review is in my own opinion.

Sunday, August 18, 2019

Where I Found You

Where I Found You: A gripping powerful uplifting story of a mother̢۪s love by [Robinson, Emma]This is a well written story about a difficult subject matter.
Ruby is a three year old who doesn't talk much, and depends on routine. Her father walks out on her and her mom, Sara. However, Sara feels like there is something wrong with her little girl. Ruby is diagnosed with autism.
I have read many non-fiction books about autism but this is the first fictional one that grabbed my heart and helped me to see autism from the family perspective. This is so well-done that I felt like I was part of the family from the beginning.
Beautifully written. Thank you Bookouture and Netgalley for allowing me to read the arc of this story.

I was given this book by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

Wednesday, August 14, 2019

Diagnosis by Lisa Sanders

Diagnosis: Solving the Most Baffling Medical Mysteries by [Sanders, Lisa]It has been a while since I have read a non-fiction medical book. When I did read them, they would fascinate me. Each case took me right into the medicine of the case. None of them are long, however, at times I would catch myself dissecting the technical language and forget about the people involved.
 I felt detached from the cases instead of being in the center of it.
For readers who enjoy medical non-fiction concerning complex cases, I would recommend this.

Monday, August 12, 2019

Seven Letters of Love

Seven Letters of Love: A story of heartbreak, family drama and a mother's endless love by [Moriarty, Sinéad]Being a mother is what Sarah is all about. She loves it. Her daughter, Izzy, is seven years old. Sarah's family is excited when she becomes pregnant again, however when she collapses a few months into the pregnancy things start to fall apart in Sarah and Izzy's world. All at once, the family's future is being fought over by Sarah's husband and her sister.
The sister, Mia is trying to connect with Sarah by walking through Sarah's house. She finds the seven letters that Sarah has written to Izzy, one for each year of her life, so far. These letters are filled with so much love, and yet it feels like Sarah is planning for the day she may not be around. Filled with the words in these letters, Mia and Sarah's husband now have their world changed forever.
This book is an emotional one that takes the reader through the roller coaster that is life, never knowing from one day to another what will occur. A box of tissues is needed to get through this book but I recommend it highly.


Thursday, August 1, 2019

Whenever I am out in nature I am amazed by the beauty that God created. The Signature of God: His Name Written into Our Lives & the World  by Rhonda Dawes Milner brings this wonder tot he forefront as she helps us see all the delicate beauty in nature and how they are related to God and his works.
I love reminders of God's love and this books helps us to remember what surrounds us and see it in a new way. I highly recommend this book.
I was given this book by NetGalley and River Grove books in exchange for my honest review.

Friday, July 26, 2019

Overcoming Fear by Dawna de Dilva

Overcoming Fear: The Supernatural Strategy to Live in Freedom by [De Silva, Dawna]I was not sure what to expect from this book as the subject matter can be overwhelming at times. This book was not like that. It is filled with encouragement. The author, Dawna De Silva shared about discerning the voice of God so we can hear and be healed by Him. This leads freedom from fear. Much of her teaching uses personal stories as a counselor. There are also questions throughout to help the application of the teaching to life. Along with this there are quotations from other well-known authors and Scripture to help guide.
I highly recommend this book, but I would suggest reading a chapter at a time and letting it sink in.
I was given this book by Chosen Books in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Wednesday, July 24, 2019

From Junk Food to Joy Food by Joy Bauer

From Junk Food to Joy Food: All the Foods You Love to Eat......Only Better by [Bauer, Joy].From Junk Food to Joy Food caught my attention because I am always on the lookout for meals that are good for me but yet don't taste that way. This book shows you how to do the exchanges, yet not feel deprived. The author, Joy Bauer, shows where there are hidden calories in the food that you choose. It also gives choices of foods that allow you to feel energized and healthy.
There are recipes from Chicken Parmesan to Key Lime Pie.
This book is very useful if you need to eat healthier but don't want to give up on comfort food. Each recipe gives the calories for the food we are used to eating and then the lower calorie equivalent.
I may have to get the hard copy of this book so I don't make my Kindle too messy while preparing the meals.
I was given this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. 


Monday, July 22, 2019

The Secret Letter

The Secret Letter: Gripping and heartbreaking WW2 historical fiction by [Rix, Debbie]This historical fiction is set during WWII in Germany and England.
Magda, one of the main characters lives near Augsburg, Germany on a farm. Her brother, Karl, attends Oxford University. Magda misses her brothers so much, so when she received a letter telling about the war she kept it, even though he asked her to destroy it. This action leads to danger for her family. Magda has also been encouraged to join a German Girls League.
Another of the characters, Imogen, who lives in England with her friends. They have all been sent away from home to live in other towns.
The story grows by telling each girl's story as the war goes on. Including their plans when they grow up.
This story is so moving. It caught at my heart from the beginning. I recommend this book highly.
This book was sent to me by NetGalley, and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. 

Sunday, July 21, 2019

Hearing God by Nathan Finochio

Hearing God: Eliminate Myths. Encounter Meaning. by [Finochio, Nathan]This book spoke to my heart from the first page. The author, Nathan Finochio, approaches different myths then shows us how to confront them and to look at things differently. He also tells why God speaks to us. It is not to fulfill our inconsequential needs but to help us be transformed into Jesus' image, without the barriers that keep us from hearing him.
I liked this book because it tell us to take our own responsibility for hearing God. He includes stories, humor and suggestions to help us to understand his teaching.
I was given this ARC by the publisher. All comments are my own words and thoughts. This is my honest review.



Thursday, July 18, 2019

The Woman in the White Kimono

The Woman in the White Kimono: A Novel by [Johns, Ana]The author of "The Woman in the White Kimono" has a gift of choosing words that drew me into the book quickly. This historical fiction fascinates and captivates. The story takes you into the lives of Japanese women during WWII. These women were ostracized because they found love in nontraditional places. They were cut off from family and loved ones.
The story is written in a beautiful style that shows the author has researched the topic well. I highly recommend this book to those who love historic fiction.
Thank you NetGalley, Legend Press and the author for allowing me to have an advance copy of this book to review. The opinions of this review are entirely my own.


Sunday, July 14, 2019

Tom Gates Extra Special Treats (Not)

Tom Gates: Extra Special Treats (Not) by [Pichon, L.]I was given this book by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
This book is so much fun to read. I love when I read a book and I catch myself laughing out loud at parts. Tom Gates wants to receive a Star Pupil badge. Along the way he comes across other special treats such as days off because of heating problems at school, visits with the "Fossils" (his grandparents) and hidden treats.
Throughout the story L. Pichon places little illustrations that would catch every kids imagination. The doodles and drawing are as much fun as the story. I could see this book being ideal for 4th through 6th grade students.

Monday, June 24, 2019

Peaches and Creamed

Peaches-N-Creamed (The Dinner Club Murder Mysteries Book 6) by [Whalen, Karen C.]This cute mystery is a part of a series but I had no difficulty getting into it. The characters and the writing are fun.
In this book, Jane and Dale have gone to Colorado, staying in a B&B while they look for a place for their wedding. As is normal with Jane a murder is coming her way, as usual. With Dale there with her, they go about exploring the circumstances of the death.
I loved the way the murder was solved little-by-little while Dale and Jane continue their courtship. Also as usual, Karen C. Whalen includes recipes in the book. I now look forward to reading more by this author.
I recommend this book for those that enjoy cozy mysteries.
I received this book from NetGalley and The Wild Rose Press in exchange for my honest opinion.

Sunday, June 23, 2019

The Inn at Hidden Run

The Inn at Hidden Run (Tree of Life Book 1) by [Newport, Olivia]This book tugs at the heart strings.
The Inn at Hidden Run by Olivia Newport is the first of a series.
Nolan Duffy and Jillian Parisi-Duffy are father and daughter. He is a lawyer and she is a genealogist.
In this book the past and present are presented in a pleasing way, with humor and faith. The story line from the past shows how a generation were able to deal with an epidemic with faith. The past generation deals with Eliza in 1878, the present story deals with Meri but they are blended in a way that shows skill and love for the story.
I truly enjoyed this book and recommend it to all readers.
I received this book from Barbour Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. This review reflects my opinion on this book.

Friday, June 21, 2019

The Start of Summer by [Walsh, Alison]This is my kind of summer reading. I like to read books in the summer that I want to pick up and read again at any time.
This book revolves around four women who are each trying to find out who they are after having a child. I like how each character evolves throughout this book which is set in Dublin. 
In the beginning of the book three of the women had already formed a tight group, Gracie, Jane and Lina. Elise sees them at the park and tries to join the group. The others know each other from antenatal classes so Elise has some mountains to climb to become a part of the group.
I feel that the author is able to keep the book moving by following each character and adding unexpected twists throughout. This book tugged at my heartstrings as I could relate to each and wanted to make their stories part of me, even though each woman's story was unique.
This is the first book by Alison Walsh that I have read but I will look forward to reading more in the future. 
I received this book from NetGalley and Hachette Books Ireland in exchange for my honest review.

Thursday, June 20, 2019

The Nurses of Lark Lane by Pam Howes

The Nurses of Lark Lane: A heartbreaking Liverpool saga by [Howes, Pam]I was given this book by Bookouture and NetGalley. The review and opinions are my honest words.
This book is part of a series by Pam Howes. I had not read the previous ones but I still enjoyed this book.
This book is set in 1955 in Liverpool, England. Alice has an abusive alcoholic for a husband who uses all of her wages to drink. Cathy is her eldest daughter. Cathy's desire is to be a nurse but the family budget does not allow it. She leaves school to find and work at a job, without qualification.
The characters in this book are very interesting and easy to relate with. Cathy is created with amazing determination and inner strength.
The time period was reflected well throughout the story, also as well as friendships which are built.
I feel that this book is a book that can draw the reader in easily. I didn't want to put it down, once I began it. It definitely left me wanting to know more about the other ladies.
I recommend this book highly.




Wednesday, June 19, 2019

Book Review: While You Were Mine

While You Were Mine by [Creel, Ann Howard]I was given this book by NetGalley with the understanding that I will give an honest review.
This book drew me in by being set after WWII, plus the fact that it is historical fiction.
Gwen Mullen, a nurse who left her family in Colorado, moved to New York City to find other women who are taking care of wounded soldiers, like herself. She finders herself caring for a friend's baby, giving it love and care like a mother. When the child's father returns from the war, she feels torn apart. She and the father, John McKee, begin to spend time together to the child can be comfortable with him. As she spends more time, Gwen finds herself falling for John, knowing that he could take what has become her world away.
This was a endearing book, which made it difficult to put down once I began reading it. I like being reminded of what it was like when I first fell in love. Even though it is listed as historical fiction, I don't believe that is the correct heading. Historical romance would be a better fit. It was a fun book to read which is nice when facing stressful to not-so-pleasant days. If the reader is looking for a light-read, then I would recommend it.