Review of "A New Way To Dinner" by Amanda Hesser and Merrill Stubbs

First of all, this book is gorgeous. Beautifully bound, illustrated, and printed - it is an excellent addition to your cookbook collection. It would also make a lovely "coffee table" book.

Instead of the traditional approach to a cookbook and meal planning, authors Amanda and Merrill have created a very strategic way to multi task. Taking some ingredients and dishes than can largely be prepared a head, they provide a game plan, your shopping list, thoughts and ideas about the recipes, approximate prep and cook times, and much more. The strategy is also geared towards utilizing items that are in season and many can be frozen for later use.

I really can't say enough about the cleverness of this book! I was so impressed. Additionally, when you throw in the incredibly useful and well researched information, and then include some delicious sounding meals - this concept and cookbook is a total win. Bon Appetit!

I received this book for free from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "A New Way To Dinner" by Amanda Hesser and Merrill Stubbs

First of all, this book is gorgeous. Beautifully bound, illustrated, and printed - it is an excellent addition to your cookbook collection. It would also make a lovely "coffee table" book.

Instead of the traditional approach to a cookbook and meal planning, authors Amanda and Merrill have created a very strategic way to multi task. Taking some ingredients and dishes than can largely be prepared a head, they provide a game plan, your shopping list, thoughts and ideas about the recipes, approximate prep and cook times, and much more. The strategy is also geared towards utilizing items that are in season and many can be frozen for later use.

I really can't say enough about the cleverness of this book! I was so impressed. Additionally, when you throw in the incredibly useful and well researched information, and then include some delicious sounding meals - this concept and cookbook is a total win. Bon Appetit!

I received this book for free from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "A New Way To Dinner" by Amanda Hesser and Merrill Stubbs

First of all, this book is gorgeous. Beautifully bound, illustrated, and printed - it is an excellent addition to your cookbook collection. It would also make a lovely "coffee table" book.

Instead of the traditional approach to a cookbook and meal planning, authors Amanda and Merrill have created a very strategic way to multi task. Taking some ingredients and dishes than can largely be prepared a head, they provide a game plan, your shopping list, thoughts and ideas about the recipes, approximate prep and cook times, and much more. The strategy is also geared towards utilizing items that are in season and many can be frozen for later use.

I really can't say enough about the cleverness of this book! I was so impressed. Additionally, when you throw in the incredibly useful and well researched information, and then include some delicious sounding meals - this concept and cookbook is a total win. Bon Appetit!

I received this book for free from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Fatal Frost" by Nancy Mehl

The first book in Nancy Mehl's new Defenders of Justice series focuses on the drug trade in St. Louis. It's escalating largely due to the involvement of a major cartel, and US Marshal Mercy Brennan is right in the thick of it. Although she is unaware of how closely the cartel is watching her, after she is shot in a raid her long estranged police officer father reaches out to see her. Mercy is not convinced of his apology or sincerity during their meeting, but she quickly discovers that her connection with him (though tenuous) has tied her into the cartel's schemes more deeply than she thought possible.

Her boss creates a plan to draw the cartel and local drug dealers out and protect Mercy at the same time. However, their safety is quickly compromised, there is a mole in the Marshal's office, and it is unknown who can be trusted. An unexpected ice storm complicates the entire plan - will any of the good guys make it out alive?

Although I generally enjoy Nancy Mehl's books, this felt like a second or third book in the series rather than the first. The back stories of the characters (Mercy's relationship with her best friend Tally and former boyfriend Mark) were presented in a way that seemed like a recap rather than an introduction. I am looking forward to the next book in this series and hope that it will resolve my confusion.  :)

I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Waves of Mercy" by Lynn Austin

This is my first time reading anything by Lynn Austin, but this book has made me a total fan. Well written, compelling, and interesting - it has it all.

Anna Nicholson was engaged to a prominent banker in Chicago society. He broke off the engagement when Anna refused to stop attending a local church (not the "acceptable" one for her station). Although she was initially devastated, when she arrives at her luxury hotel for a vacation in Holland, Michigan, she is wrestling with thoughts of should she apologize and work things out? If she does, will it be for love? Duty? Fear?

Holland, Michigan resident Geesje de Jonge emigrated to America as a teen 50 years before, and has a pretty compelling back story. When the town plans it's Semi-Centennial celebration, she is asked to write down her experiences for their town's book of history. Although it is difficult for her to remember and write things down, she begins to use the time as a way to work through the deep challenges she went through. And in the end, she just might find some healing and solve a great mystery of her past, while helping Anna discern some truths as well.

The book bounces back and forth between Anna and Geesje's perspectives, both present and past. The women are tied together in inexplicable ways - and the author's resolution is satisfying and well done. I can easily recommend this book, and am eager to read more from this author.

I was given a free copy of this book by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Crash the Chatterbox" by Steven Furtick

Quite possibly one of the best non fiction books I have ever read. I am pretty sure I don't know anyone who doesn't (at least from time to time!) struggle with overcoming the negative thoughts that are so subversive to an emotionally healthy life - and this book gives clear understanding of why and how we can overcome, or Crash the Chatterbox.

In his conversational style writing mixed with stories, the author dissects four main areas that what he has named The Chatterbox (internal dialogue) will negatively impact your life: insecurity, fear, condemnation, and discouragement. He describes how accurately understanding what God says about you will overcome the voice of insecurity. Overpower the lies of fear with the truth about what God says He will do. Squelch the lies of condemnation with the fact that God says He has. Kick to the curb the lies of discouragement with the truth that God says you can.

This book will help you to understand your enemy, to realize that you indeed do have a choice, and gives specific ways to win. I can't recommend it enough.

I received this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "A Lady Unrivaled" by Roseanna M. White

The third and presumably final novel in the Ladies of the Manor books, author Roseanna M. White provides an interesting and satisfying conclusion to this beautifully written Edwardian series. This installment focuses on Lady Ella Myerston, sister of the Duke and Duchess Nottingham (The Reluctant Duchess) and good friend of Duchess Brook Stafford (The Lost Heiress). Although her family and friends have long considered her to be unfailingly cheerful, she is certainly not shallow or unintelligent. Via her brother, she unwittingly takes the "Fire Eyes" with her on a trip to visit her friend Brook. While there she begins to spend time with Lord James Cayton, a former cad who has left a string of broken hearts, relationships, and trust behind him....but who has now had an enormous change of heart and longs to be honorable. Ballerina Kira Belova also joins the cast of characters - as a spy, posing as a ladies maid for Kitty.

To add to the suspense, brother and sister duo Kitty and Rush are back on the scene with (always) questionable motives. Who is the real villain here? Will the Fire Eyes cause even more death and destruction? Will they and their loved ones ever be truly safe?

If this is truly the last of the series, I'm sad. It is easy to recommend this book, as well as the entire series. Although A Lady Unrivaled can be read as a standalone novel, you will have a greater understanding and enjoyment if you read both The Lost Heiress and The Reluctant Duchess prior to this one.

With so many Edwardian novel choices out there, this author has found the perfect combination of this time period, romance, and mystery. One of the best - well done!

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Catching Heat" by Janice Cantore

The third and final book in the Cold Case Justice trilogy, we pick back up with Detective Abby Hart and PI Luke Murphy just as their new task force is getting off the ground. They receive their first cold case and are simultaneously continuing to seek justice in the Triple Seven murders. And, Abby and Luke are both emotionally free to explore how they might work personally (finally!). The story is also interspersed with the point of view of recently convicted and disgraced police officer Kelsey Cox, who may not be done doing the bidding of the Governor and his wife.

A satisfying ending to this series, I enjoyed both the closure and the suspenseful storyline. We are finally able to understand some of the motivation of the criminals, and the story maintains a strong level of tension throughout. I recommend this entire series.

I was provided a free copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "The Promise of Jesse Woods" by Chris Fabry

A coming-of-age story that bounces back and forth between the 70's and 80's, baseball aficionado Matt Plumley is challenged to find the depth of strength to stand up for what he believe in - and that life will not always turn out as expected.

The book opens with Matt and his family having just moved to Dogwood, West Virginia, where his dad (who grew up there) has been recently hired as the pastor of the local church. Matt quickly learns that not everyone in Dogwood is considered an "appropriate" candidate for his friendship. He also discovers that there are some severely prejudiced folks with a serious agenda that exert their control, not only over the area but eventually his father; and there will be some long term consequences rooted in that issue.

Dealing with some serious social and justice issues that still resonate today, The Promise of Jesse Woods is well-written and thought provoking. I am very glad to have read it and can definitely recommend it.

I was given a copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "They Danced On" by Carre Armstrong Gardner

The third book in the Darling Family series, this installment focuses on Jane Darling and her husband Leander, in their valiant struggle against his diagnosis of ALS. Laura Darling also is featured prominently in this book, as she comes to grips with the real depth of her addictions. As before, the author bounces back and forth between the perspectives of multiple family members, yet still weaves the entire story together in a way that is both cohesive and beautiful.

One of Jane's biggest challenges is meshing her belief that God can and WILL heal her husband with his conviction that although he is sure that God can, he believes he won't....and he wants to move forward in faith, as best they can. Compounding Jane's life is her difficult relationship with her sister; the youngest child moves out and Jane feels at loose ends and without purpose; and, she has a long-held secret she must make some decisions about.

This entire series has been a bright spot in my fiction world, as the author is a wonderful storyteller. The characters seem real and people you would want to know and have as friends. I was delighted to be a part of their world for these three books. More, please.

I was given a copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "An Elegant Facade" By Kristi Ann Hunter

Book two in the Hawthorne House series, here we are given the back story on Miranda's challenging sister, Lady Georgiana. Told with a method I haven't seen before (and I read A LOT), a fair portion of this book overlaps with the author's debut book (and first in the series, "A Noble Masquerade"). I actually loved it! The author provides a note of explanation, and truly, being written in this way crated an extra layer of depth. You can easily read and understand this book independently of the first one, but it does provide a unique perspective - one that I appreciated.

Lady Georgiana, on the surface, appears to be extremely vain and conniving. Her single focus is to make the perfect match in her debut season, which she has worked tirelessly for years to prepare for-all so she can feel safe.

A friend of the family, investment manager Colin McRae, is successful-but not titled-and although Georgiana initially intrigues him, he is convinced she is too shallow. However, he soon begins to see glimpses of the real Georgiana behind the mask...and once he inadvertently learns her secret, realizes she is in his heart. And he isn't sure he wants her to get out.

I greatly enjoyed both of the books in this series and it is easy to recommend them highly. In no way do they "read" like they are from a new author! The characters are interesting and believable. Both books are incredibly well-written and a wonderful take on this time period of history.

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "From This Moment" by Elizabeth Camden

I have truly enjoyed all of this author's books - but this one by far is my favorite. Stella West (nee Westergaard) and Romulus White are professionals with somewhat interconnecting lives - Stella is an acclaimed artist, and Romulus has been pursuing her for years to provide illustrations for the science magazine that is his pride and joy. He is thrilled to discover that Stella is now in Boston, but her reason for crossing the pond is tragic - Stella's sister died under somewhat mysterious circumstances, and she is determined to discover what really happened.

Although she was initially reticent to work for Romulus, when she is opposed at every turn in her investigation, she decides that his relationships and connections with people in positions of power within the city may provide her with the answers she needs. However, the truth goes much deeper than either of them could have imagined, and evidence suggests that the continued investigation will have far reaching consequences that neither of them would have imagined.

Note: If you have not already read the companion short, "Summer of Dreams: A From This Moment Novella" I suggest you read that first. It will greatly enrich this novel and give deeper context to not only Romulus' motivation but also the subplot of the relationship with his cousin and her estranged husband.

It is very easy to recommend this book! I was given a copy of this book by Bethany House publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "The Alliance" by Jolina Petersheim

Told in alternating viewpoints between the two lead characters, Leora and Moses, the author opens the story with Moses' plane crash into the Mennonite community that Leora lives in. The plane crash is quickly suspected to be the result of an EMP (electromagnetic pulse) - but whatever it is has rendered all current technology useless. The enigmatic Moses soon becomes invested in the community's survival - along with a few other "Englischers" who agree to help protect the area and ration the food supply the community possesses.

The author paints beautiful word pictures that make for poignant storytelling. Overall, I enjoyed this book but did have some difficulty truly caring about the characters. Yet, it was still an interesting story. Personally, it would have helped me to better process the pace of the book if I had understood from the outset it was the first either in a series, or of two books...which I (somehow!) missed completely until the end. And, although the end is not necessarily a cliff hanger, I cannot completely describe this as a standalone book.

All in all I do recommend this book and encourage you to get it and see what YOU think!

Review of "Her One and Only" by Becky Wade

The conclusion of the wonderful Porter Family series, this final installment features youngest child (and only girl) Dru Porter. Dru is a former Marine and "Executive Protection Agent" who has just been assigned to the detail of NFL player Gray Fowler. Dru feels that she has a lot to prove, and Gray is struggling with his own past. Together, they are a fiery combination.

Gray was assigned protection because he has been receiving threatening letters from a stalker. Dru is determined to not only keep him safe but solve the mystery as soon as possible. She is also determined not to become attached to or involved with her client - but the chemistry runs high and her resolve weakens as she begins to see behind the walls he has firmly in place around his true emotions.

Both main characters have deeply ingrained reasons for why they respond the way they do, and the author does a beautiful job of portraying all of her characters with multiple layers. Gray had a rough background and still has a challenging relationship with his mother; Dru has struggled to find her place in her family and the world, and really understand how God made her.

A substory of the book also brings the series full circle, focusing on Bo & Meg Porter: after numerous years of infertility, they have finally conceived - and are having twins! However, there are some complications that force Meg to trust God much deeper than she would prefer.

I loved this entire series, and am sorry to see it wrap up. Becky Wade's writing is fun and moving and thought provoking and engaging....it is easy to recommend this book! Please note: although all of them could technically stand alone, if you haven't read 1-3 of this series I would suggest starting at the beginning. Enjoy!

Review of "Lead Me Home" by Amy K. Sorrells

James Horton pastors a small community church in the also small town of Sycamore, Indiana - a church that is just weeks away from shutting the doors. Still grieving the death of his wife, and father to a (once vibrant and now difficult) teenage daughter, he is broken hearted in all areas of his life. He's been at this church for the last 20 years and views the closure as a personal failure.

Nearby neighbor Noble Burden grew up with James' daughter, Shelby. He is a gifted musician who has inherited the responsibilities of the dairy farm that his abusive father abandoned when he left their family. He struggles to reconcile his feelings about the weight of responsibility to the farm and his family, with his musical dreams.

Amy K. Sorrells is such an interesting writer. She clearly paints a clear picture of the challenges AND the rewards of being small. Everything I've read of hers has been thought provoking - "Lead Me Home" is her third book, and I strongly recommend you check out the other two.

I was given a copy of this book by Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Like Never Before" by Melissa Tagg

Local newspaper editor Amelia Bentley has lived in Maple Valley for the past few years. Relatively recently divorced (and still grieving a failed adoption she anticipated immediately preceding the divorce), she has poured herself into the local community and history.

Logan Walker and his daughter Charlie currently live in Los Angeles, where is an accomplished speechwriter. A widower who is about to be tapped to be part of a Presidential campaign, he travels home to Maple Valley when he unexpectedly inherits the local newspaper. Amelia and Logan connect quickly, in ways that surprise them both.

Although this could be read as a standalone, you will certainly get more out of it when you start at the beginning and read the Walker Family books in order (including the e-book short). The author flawlessly weaves this storyline into the Maple Valley history. Melissa Tagg is quickly becoming one of my favorite writers as she incorporates compelling characters, believable storylines, and a message of hope and redemption through a relationship with Jesus - all in a way that is never preachy or "expected". It is a pleasure to recommend this book.

"Like Never Before" was provided to me by Bethany House publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Flirtation Walk" by Siri Mitchell

Set in and around the US Military Academy of West Point in the mid-1800's, the author trades chapters between the points of view of Lucinda Pennyworth and Cadet Seth Westcott.

Lucinda has recently been informed of her father's death, and travels to her mother's sisters' house for both a place to live and an attempt at respectability. There she finds a life that is quite different than how she was raised; she never really knew her mother, and her father was a swindler - and she was brought up to participate in his schemes.

Seth Westcott is at the top of his class and a true gentleman to boot! (The saying you can't be both an officer and a gentleman certainly does not apply to him.) His mother passes away and the army will not allow him leave to attend to any of the family's affairs. When he later receives word from his sister that she has been swindled out of the money from the sale of their family farm, he is determined to find a way to locate this con man and bring him to justice. However, as he sees it, the only chance at doing this is to lose his standing academically and rack up as many demerits as possible.

I was incredibly excited to read this book, and it did not disappoint. The author's trademark wit and the character's verbal repartee are a delight. I found myself smiling constantly as well as laughing out loud from time to time. It is easy to fall in love with these characters, and the pacing and storylines are flawless.

I was provided a copy of this book by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Change of Heart" by Courtney Walsh

Evelyn and Christopher Brandt met in high school and eventually married. 10 years later, Christopher is arrested for embezzlement and Evelyn has no idea what is going on. As his crimes begin to be investigated it is soon discovered that he has been cheating on her for years, perhaps for their entire relationship. She starts to question if anything she believes is really true.

Trevor Whitney was also one of their high school classmates who has been in love with Evelyn for years. He is carrying tremendous guilt for even feeling this way, but it's compounded by the fact he knew Christopher was cheating and he remained silent.

I have such mixed emotions about this book. It's a standalone novel (but companion to her book Paper Hearts). Unfortunately some of the characterization simply did not ring true for me - but to be fair, I have never been married to a total narcissist or gotten a divorce. Her Senator husband was just an oddly developed character to me; I can usually find a shred of decency in a character, but he is completely awful - and so, it was difficult to process that she NEVER NOTICED ANYTHING.

Although I can't give this book rave reviews, I will have to suggest that you read it and decide for yourself. I was given a copy of this book by Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Love, Lexi" by Sherry Kyle

Such a great idea, this book! It's a seamless combination of story/journal/bible verses/idea articulation assistance - this one truly has it all for the tween and teen!

From the story, Lexi is a seventh grader who is actively trying to find her way, both in her relationships with friends and family as well as God. She writes in her journal to tell God what happened that day. At the end of each chapter, there is a little love note from God with some relevant-to-what-happened-today verses. The author also includes a directed devotional section with room for the reader to write their own letter to God. They also help the reader to come full circle, ending each journal entry by asking them to write how God can resolve the challenge. There is also a "God, thank you for...." and "God, help me to..." that are relevant to that day's journal entry (both by Lexi and the reader.)

The story is great; the idea is interesting; it is well written and fun and poignant and touching all at once. On a personal note, the author had me at "....the grand prize (for a school fundraiser) is a limousine ride and a pizza lunch with up to three friends at Pizza My Heart." - which just happens to be my all time favorite pizza place! When I read that, I knew it was going to be good.....and I was right.

I was provided a free copy of this book by Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for my honest review which I have given here.

Review of "Step by Step" by Candace Calvert

The second book in Candace Calvert's Crisis Team series, this installment focuses on ER nurse Taylor Cabot, who believes she is in the final stages of recovery after the tragic death of her husband, Greg. Taylor has moved to San Diego and is systematically checking points off her personal Survival List. Crisis chaplain Seth Donovan is in town for professional reasons, and the more he sees Taylor the more he realizes the depth of his feelings - but he is afraid it's too late. He is also processing his next steps in life, and although he continues to be there for her, it is starting to cost him a great deal emotionally.

I enjoyed this story, and appreciated the author's authority on 'medical speak' and hospital procedures - they provide a great foundation, but she did not get SO technical that those of us not in that vocation got lost. This book was also an excellent set up for the next book featuring Sloane Wilder. A sneak preview chapter is included at the end. Although Step by Step can be read as a stand alone, you would likely get much more out of it if you read the first one, By Your Side.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book by Tyndale Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Under Our Skin" by Benjamin Watson

Like many, I was moved by Benjamin Watson's post on Facebook in the aftermath of what happened in Ferguson. Initially, I was touched, enlightened, thoughtful...and I clicked "follow" on Facebook, because I respected his words and found there to be wisdom in his writing. I was especially excited to have the opportunity to read and review this book. I was not disappointed.

Each chapter begins with a segment of his Facebook post, followed by background/support information of why he wrote what he did. He includes family stories, history, social commentary, movie dialogue, opinion, and so much more in this enlightening and thought provoking book. I do not have Mr. Watson's background or experiences and I am not only enriched, I am changed by the opportunity to read about his. I would recommend it to anyone who is willing to learn.

"I'm ENCOURAGED because ultimately the problem is not a SKIN problem, it is a SIN problem.....the gospel gives mankind hope."

I was given a complimentary copy of this book by Tyndale Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Through Waters Deep" by Sarah Sundin

The first in her new "Waves of Freedom" series, Through Waters Deep tells the story of Naval Officer Jim Avery and Navy Yard secretary Mary Stirling. Set in Boston at the beginning of WWII, this is also a tale of intrigue, possible sabotage, romance, and courage.

In high school, Jim was infatuated with Mary's dearest friend, Quintessa. Although he hadn't seen either of them in years, he always thought of Mary as quiet and unassuming. Now Jim begins to see her in a new light - but he is still learning how to speak up rather than "float" along with the current - and he has to make some courageous decisions.

Mary has lived in fear for much of her life after a traumatic childhood event. She comes to realize that she is letting the fear control her, and also recognizes that her concerted efforts to stay out of the limelight are a form of pride.

Through Waters Deep is a wonderful blend of emotion and technical detail, and the author captures the feel of the times and attitude very well. I recommend this book for those interested in history with a touch of mystery and romance.

I was provided a copy of this book by Revell Publishers in exchange for my honest review.