Claiming Mariah - Review

about the book:

After her father’s death, Mariah Malone sends a letter that will forever alter the lives of her family. When Slade Donovan, strong willed and eager for vengeance, shows up on her front porch, Mariah is not ready to hear his truths: her father’s farm, the only home she’s ever known, was bought with stolen gold. With Slade ready to collect his father’s rightful claim and force Mariah and her family out on the streets, Mariah must turn to God for guidance. Though Mr. Frederick Cooper, a local landowner, promises to answer her financial woes if she agrees to be his bride, Mariah finds herself drawn instead to the angry young man demanding her home.

With the ranch now under Slade’s careful eye, he unearths more than he ever imagined as a devious plot of thievery, betrayal, and murder threatens the well-being of the ranch, endangering those who hold it dear. As the days dwindle until the rest of the Donovan clan arrives at the Lazy M ranch, Mariah and Slade must rise above the resentment of their fathers and see their true feelings before greed changes their futures forever.

my thoughts:

One of my very favorite Scripture is Romans 8:28--"And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them."

I think this story reveals this Scripture in such a beautiful way! Mariah and Slade are brought together through circumstances that will take both of them on a journey of truth and forgiveness! When Slade arrives demanding to take ownership of Mariah's home, and the farm too, Mariah is shocked to say the least! She has worked hard and doesn't want to let it go but Slade leaves her no choice but to sign it over. 

Both of them have allowed unforgiveness and guilt to rule their lives in some aspects and it keeps them from seeing the blessings that are right in front of their own eyes!  But then, haven't we all been guilty of that at some points in our lives! It is so moving to see Slade and Mariah work through each of their past and let go of that unforgiveness! 

Claiming Mariah is a WONDERFUL READ! I highly recommend it to any and all!

Thank you Litfuse for allowing me this complimentary book in exchange for my honest opinion!

To learn more about Claiming Mariah, you can go here

Maybelle in Stitches

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Maybelle In Stitches

Abingdon Press (March 18, 2014)

by

Joyce Magnin


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:


A word from the Author:

I am the author of seven novels. Five adult novels and two middle grade readers. I never wanted to do anything else but write and every day I wake up astonished that I get to do what I always dreamed about. My days are filled with words and images along with the usual family stuff. I have three children, Rebekah who is married to Joshua. They have three of the most adorable boys on the planet, Lemuel, Cedar and Soren. My daughter Emily Kate is a lovely young woman anthropologist and my son Adam is fourteen and a student--he's a genius who loves frogs and lizards and fish and plants. He amazes me.


I have never eaten a scallop. I love cream soda. Drink way too much coffee. I do not like elevators but I do enjoy needle arts and of course books. I prefer jazz over country (no offense), milk chocolate over dark, but not roller coasters although my life has often resembled a roller coaster ride.


One of my life's desires is to meet Amy Grant so I can tell her she saved my life.


ABOUT THE BOOK

Maybelle can’t sew. But when she finds an unfinished quilt in the attic of her mother’s house, she gets the crazy idea to complete it. At first, it’s just a way to fill the lonely nights while her husband, staff sergeant Holden Kanzinzki, is away fighting in World War II.


Yet when Maybelle discovers that the quilt is made from scraps of material that can be traced back through her family heritage, the project is suddenly much more important. Then word comes that Holden is missing in action, and with little else to do, Maybelle clings to the quilt as much as to the hope that her husband is still alive. As neighborhood friends gather around Maybelle to help her through the unknown days and nights ahead, it is the quilt that becomes a symbol of her unflagging belief that Holden will return—to her, to their home, and to their quilt-covered bed.


If you would like to read the first chapter of Maybelle In Stitches, go HERE.

Tide and Tempest

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Tide and Tempest

Bethany House Publishers (March 4, 2014)

by

Elizabeth Ludwig


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Elizabeth  Ludwig is an award-winning author whose work has been featured on Novel Rocket, the Christian Authors Network, and The Christian Pulse. Her first novel, Where the Truth Lies (co-authored with Janelle Mowery), earned her the 2008 IWA Writer of the Year Award. This book was followed in 2009 by "I'll be Home for Christmas", part of the Christmas anthology collection, Christmas Homecoming.


In 2011, her second mystery, Died in the Wool (co-authored with Janelle Mowery) was nominated for a Carol Award. In 2012, the popular EDGE OF FREEDOM series released from Bethany House Publishers. Books one and two, No Safe Harbor and Dark Road Home, respectively, earned 4 Stars from the RT Book Reviews. Book three, Tide and Tempest, received top honors with 4 1/2 Stars.


Elizabeth is an accomplished speaker and teacher, often attending conferences and seminars where she lectures on editing for fiction writers, crafting effective novel proposals, and conducting successful editor/agent interviews. Along with her husband and children, she makes her home in the great state of Texas.


ABOUT THE BOOK

Two years ago, her fiance perished during their voyage to America.


Now she discovers it may have been murder...



Dreaming of a better life, Tillie McGrath leaves Ireland behind and, with her beloved fiance by her side, sets sail for America. But when illness robs her of the man she holds dear, she's left alone with only a handful of tattered memories. While forging on proves difficult, Tillie soon finds some new friends at her New York boardinghouse, and begins pursuing a new dream--to open a home for orphaned children.


Despite two years passing, Captain Keondric Morgan has never forgotten the lass who left his ship so heartbroken. When a crewman's deathbed confession reveals her fiance's demise was the result of murder, the captain knows he must try to contact her. But his attention draws the notice of others as well--dangerous men who believe Tillie has in her possession something that could expose their crimes. And to their way of thinking, the best way to prevent such an outcome is to seize the evidence and then hand Tillie the same fate as her naïve fiance.


If you would like to read the first chapter of Tide and Tempest, go HERE.



MY THOUGHTS:

I had no idea that this was the 3rd and final book in a series, and to be honest, I wasn't happy about it at all. I just knew I wasn't going to know what in the world was going on, and who all the characters were but I was wrong! Tide and Tempest was an excellent book and I wasn't lost at all!

I just love Tillie and felt for her in so many situations. Her grief for her late fiancé and her own internal battle is just heart wrenching! I wanted just to shake her and then ever so gently share how the Grace of God will erase all of her wounds and her sins. I never really understood why this wasn't covered in a "Christian Fiction Book" but, it is what it is I guess. :)

I love Captain Morgan and his tender heart towards Tillie but it drove me crazy how long it took for them to learn of one another's feelings!

If you like Romance, Suspense, Drama, then Tide & Tempest is for you! You will LOVE as did I!

Poison Town ~ REVIEW

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Poison Town

David C. Cook (February 1, 2014)

by

Creston Mapes


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Creston has fond memories of his boyhood in Bath, Ohio, where he became enchanted with his future wife, way back in the fourth grade. His father, Bernie, owned and operated The Weathervane Furniture Shop in town. The whole family lived right upstairs in the century-old house known as "The Shop."

Creston studied journalism at Bowling Green State University, then began his writing career. During the past 30 years, he has worked as a reporter, corporate copywriter, creative director, freelance writer, and author.


ABOUT THE BOOK

There's More Than One Kind of Poison in This Town


People are sick and dying. Rumors are swirling. Some claim chemicals leaking from a manufacturing plant are causing the cancer that's crippling people on the poor side of Trenton City, Ohio. Yet nothing at the plant appears amiss.



The problem remains a mystery until reporter Jack Crittendon's long-time mechanic falls ill and he investigates. Soon Jack becomes engulfed in a smokescreen of lies, setups, greed, and scandal.


The deeper he digs, the more toxic the corruption he uncovers. As he faces off with the big-time players behind the scenes and tries to beat the clock before more people die, he realizes the chillingly unthinkable--he knows too much.


If you'd like to read the first chapter of Poison Town, go HERE.



My Thoughts:

WOW! WOW! WOW! This is the first time I have read a book by Creston Mapes and I am literally ready to download every single book he's written onto my kindle!

Poison Town is a fast paced, suspense-filled novel.  I LOVE reporter Jack Crittendon! He is very tenacious, determined, and he cares deeply for all of those he has a relationship with in Trenton City.
Demler-Vargas employees many residents in town but Jack learns that not only is his friend sick, but so are many others and they all have very similar symptoms, some have even died.

Jack refuses to give up until he finds an answer, no matter how dangerous things get, but along the way he also learns some very surprising truths. Is everyone involved in the deception and cover-ups of Demler-Vargas. Will he be enticed by the bribes as well? As he gets deeper and deeper into this Demler-Vargas mystery, his marriage and faith seem to be unraveling at the seams.

Will he find the truth and expose Demler-Vargas? Can his marriage be saved and his Faith restored?

This is by far one of my FAVORITE reads this year! I couldn't wait to pass it onto a friend and share this phenomenal read! 5 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥'s FOR SURE!

Thank you so much CFBA for allowing me this complimentary book in exchange for my honest review! Thank you for showcasing and introducing me to such an incredible author! I am now a HUGE FAN of Creston Mapes!

First Kisses Promotion

For a limited time only - Six unforgettable love stories 

99 cents! 

Buy now at Amazon - Barnes & Noble - Kobo - iBooks - Google Play

A brand new anthology from six of your favorite inspirational romance authors - no reprints here!

About the novellas:

From New York Times bestselling author Linda Goodnight, historical romance The Rambler's Bride: The kissing cowboy Jericho is bent on revenge, but discovers the truth and falls in  love with widow Esther.

From USA Today bestselling author Janet Tronstad, retro romance Lovebirds at the Heartbreak Cafe: Truck driver Buddy wasn't looking for love, but waitress Penny and her quirky family take over the cafe and his heart.

From bestselling author Debra Clopton, contemporary cowboy romance Her Mule Hollow Cowboy: Independent cowgirl Maddie swears she doesn't need help from bull rider Cliff. But the Mule Hollow Matchmakers seem to have other plans...

From bestselling author Margaret Daley, romantic suspense Deadly Hunt: Bodyguard Tess rescues wounded businessman Shane from dying in the wilderness, but can she protect her heart when Shane gets too close?

From fan favorite Camy Tang, romantic suspense Necessary Proof: Reformed ex-con Alex is on the run from those who have set him up to take the blame for a cop-killing. Will tech-expert Jane be able to prove him innocent?

From fan favorite Lacy Williams, contemporary cowboy romance Kissed by a Cowboy: Maddox has given up all his big dreams to care for his niece. When Haley returns to her hometown, will Maddox find a new dream with her?

Special promo - March 17-19 - #SENDAKISS

If you purchase First Kisses during our promo dates and send a special tweet, we'll gift a copy to a friend, absolutely free! Find out more at bit.ly/sendakiss .

What readers are saying:

 Six amazing books from six different authors. They are all Christian fiction set from the 1800’s to present time. Each is a stand alone book with great settings, story lines and characters. All the books had family and faith. Some of the authors were known to me and some I was unfamiliar with. I really enjoyed each book. I can not wait to check out books from these new authors. - Amazon reader

 I didn't know what to expect - I am not a fan of anthologies. Usually I find that the stories are too brief and the plots move too fast and don't go into any detail and don't make a lot of sense. Well, let me tell you that this anthology is not like this, not at all. It is wonderful! I enjoyed each of the novellas immensely. Each one has well developed, thought out characters and detailed plots that move at exactly the right pace. You have suspense, romance - everything in each of the novels. I enjoyed reading each of the novellas and couldn't put the book down. Even though I have about 15 other books waiting to be read - I plan on reading this book all over again in the next week or so - it is just that good. - Amazon reader

A visual look at the collection:





Interact with the authors:
www.inspykisses.com
facebook.com/inspykisses
@inspykisses

Buy now at Amazon - Barnes & Noble - Kobo - iBooks - Google Play

How Sweet the Sound ~ Review

I LOVED this book, "How Sweet the Sound." It was one of those books that has your emotions just about everywhere! I cried, I cheered, and I even got so mad I wanted to scream!!

How Sweet the Sound is the story of Anniston and her family. Anniston is just precious and has experienced some very difficult things at her age, but she is a fighter! Her family it would seem begins to unravel and with each new layer of pain comes yet a new level of hope and healing!

This was the debut novel from Amy Sorrells and it is one you definitely want to add to your reading list!

Thank you CFBA for allowing me this complimentary book in exchange for my honest opinion!

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

How Sweet the Sound

David C. Cook (March 1, 2014)

by

Amy K. Sorrells


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

An Indianapolis native and graduate of DePauw University, Amy lives with her husband, three boys and a gaggle of golden retrievers in central Indiana. After writing and editing for her college newspaper, she combined a nursing degree with journalism and creative writing, which led to publishing and editing a wide array of medical and nursing writing and multimedia projects over the past 21 years, a position as director of communications of her church’s children’s ministry, as well as a weekly column for a local newspaper which ran from 2009-2012.  She has been a two-time semi-finalist for the ACFW Genesis awards, and was the winner of the 2011 Women of Faith writing contest.


When she’s not reading or writing, Amy loves spending time with her three sons; spicy lunches and art gallery walks with her  husband; digging in her garden sans gloves; walking her dogs; up-cycling old furniture and junk; photography; and friends.




ABOUT THE BOOK

From a distance, the Harlans appear to be the perfect Southern family. Wealth and local fame mask the drama and dysfunction swirling through their family line. But as the summer heats up, a flood tide of long hidden secrets surface.


Devastation from a rape followed by the murder of two family members brings three generations of the Harlans together on their pecan plantation in Bay Spring, Alabama. Chief among them is Anniston, who by the time she turned thirteen thought she’d seen it all. But as her heart awakens to the possibility of love, she begins to deal with her loneliness and grief.


This tender coming-of-age tale, inspired by the story of Tamar in 2 Samuel 13, shows how true healing and hope comes only from God. Though our earthly family can wound and disappoint, our heavenly Father brings freedom to those long held captive through His mercy and grace.

If you would like to read the first chapter of How Sweet the Sound, go HERE.

Service Station Angel - review

ABOUT THE BOOK:

New Christian Fiction Novel, Service Station Angel, Is One Man’s Story of Picking Up the Pieces, Trusting God’s Plan, Spiritual Destiny and Faithful Forgiveness

God often place people in perplexing situations that seem purposeful. The question is can they trust his lead? New author explores that question in debut novel, Service Station Angel.

Highlands Ranch, CO – When trouble rocks a small town – leaving one man struggling with disabling injuries – a community is left to pick up the pieces. Their spiritual strife is the story behind author Lisa J. Schuster’s newly released debut novel, Service Station Angel, published by Outskirts Press.

Ernie Price is a middle-aged, humble-hearted man who owns and operates a service station in a rural Midwest town in Upper Michigan, back in a time when full service was the only service. Customers got service with a smile, windows cleaned and tires pumped for free. The man’s entire life is a reflection of God’s love: He gives of himself fully and graciously to his church and to the people of his community. As music director for the children’s choir or host of the annual Christmas party for disadvantages children in town, Ernie is loved by many and his life touches the lives of countless others.

But the town is rocked to its core when an accident leaves the beloved man physically incapacitated to offer his help to others. The community is left to pick up the pieces, mourn the turn of events and move on, while Ernie wrestles with troubling spiritual questions of his accident. Moving from grief to grace, Ernie is led by God’s healing touch and restored to his mission.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Lisa J. Schuster is a first-time author; Service Station Angel is her debut novel. She enjoys creative writing, reading, musical theater, ministry work with teens and youth in downtown Denver, and traveling. Fond of her hometown of Hubbell, Michigan, and the memories of the close-knit community, she wanted the place where she grew up to be the setting for her first novel. She currently resides in Highlands Ranch, Colorado with her husband, Jeff, daughter Savanna and son Grant.

MY THOUGHTS:

This book is HANDS DOWN one of the sweetest books I have read in a long time! I felt as if I had traveled back in time when life was simple, and everyone in town new everyone! Service Station Angel is a story about Ernie Price and his life in Michigan as a Service Station owner. Ernie is a humble man who loves to serve all of those in his community. I fell in love with Ernie and so many others in this sweet town. 

It was such a treat to read this story by Lisa Schuster. To see a man who is so humble, and has given so much of himself and his heart to all of those around him, was very moving. I loved how they all were able to give back to Ernie in so many ways while he was recovering - brought tears to my eyes a few times! 

Service Station Angel is one of those books that is a feel good book, and one that you could read to any age- young or old will love it! 

Thank you Lisa Schuster for contacting me to read and review your debut book! I was so blessed to be given this opportunity!