The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz

My thoughts:  Having grown up in a southern town that played a somewhat important role in the Revolutionary War, (or should we say, the War for American Independence?) and that was also steeped in pre-revolutionary war and later the Civil War history, I grew up fascinated by history. I have also read previous publications by the author Laura Frantz and found her writing style a joy to read and her attention to historical research and detail impeccable. So the opportunity to read The Lacemaker was met with much anticipation.

From the beginning of this story I was able to visualize the streets of Williamsburg where much of the story played out. The scenes were easily imaginable based on a visit I made years ago to Williamsburg and the author's apt descriptions.

Now the story...... This is a work of fiction though there is of necessity a sprinkling of real people involved in the story and the staging of the story is pretty much true to the history of the area and time. It is the cusp of the American Revolution and Williamsburg, Virginia, is about the explode. The Patriots and the Tories seethe with the fervor of their cause - be it King and Country, or Freedom and Liberty. Our heroin is a lovely Tory lady who is left, deserted by her father, friends, and fiance on the eve of their wedding. Then her home is trashed and confiscated by the Patriots and she is left bereft of home, protection, fortune, and livelihood.

She determines not to be defeated and seeks employment - unheard of for a Lady - but she does have the lady-like skill of lacemaking and needle-work that she begins to market.

Not trusted by Tories or Patriots, she is in danger. Her rescuer is a Patriot, a gentleman, a protector.

The story unfolds amidst the conflicts of the time and war ensues and with it the dangers to each person. Lady Elizabeth who becomes known as Liberty and Noble Rynallt are both strong, believable characters. Their faith shines through strengthening them for what they have to endure.

Laura Frantz has penned a wonderful story and one I highly recommend.

Watch for a Giveaway soon!

About the book: When colonial Williamsburg explodes like a powder keg on the eve of the American Revolution, Lady Elisabeth "Liberty" Lawson is abandoned by her fiance and suspected of being a spy for the hated British. No one comes to her aid save the Patriot Noble Rynallt, a man with formidable enemies of his own. Liberty is left with a terrible choice. Will the Virginia belle turned lacemaker side with the radical revolutionaries, or stay true to her English roots? And at what cost?

Historical romance favorite Laura Frantz is back with a suspenseful story of love, betrayal, and new beginnings. With her meticulous eye for detail and her knack for creating living, breathing characters, Frantz continues to enchant historical fiction readers who long to feel they are a part of the story.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Revell a division of Baker Publishing House, to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

God Made the World By Debbie Rivers-Moore & Emma Haines

ISBN: 9780825445200
$11.99 | Rag book
Kregel Children's Books

My thoughts:  Years ago when my grown children were tiny, I was delighted to obtain a little cloth book. It was fabulous. Soft enough for them to take to bed. Washable. Sturdy. Wonderful for little hands to hold and carry around. A grand way to introduce love of books to the smallest.
 
I love that God made the World is crinkly and squishy. Lovely softness and soft colors. The fabric has a almost silky feel to it. The text is simple and different from the usual "God made the World" ideas. Simply stated God made.... the oceans, the skies, the meadows, the woods, my friends. and ME! Baby can learn very early that this beautiful World in which baby now lives was made by God and so was "baby/me."

Lovely. I recommend this for those upcoming baby shower gifts, Christmas, or just "Auntie loves you" gifts.

About the book: Charming illustrations help infants and toddlers discover God's natural world, from dolphins to foxes to kittens! This squishy fabric book features crinkle cloth for sensory development and hours of baby fun. God Made the World also includes a child-safety mirror so baby can see herself and know she's a part of God's design.

For parents, a Velcro closure keeps the book shut, and a hanging tab can attach the book to a stroller, purse, or toy so it can go wherever they do. It comes packaged in a bag to keep it clean and includes a header card for easy hanging display.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy from Kregel Books to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and freely given.

The Elusive Miss Ellison (Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace) By Carolyn Miller

ISBN: 978-0825444500
$14.99 | Paperback
Kregel Publications

My thoughts: Delectably sweet and genteel and a highly recommended read for teens and adults of any age. The author takes the reader back to a gentler, nobler time and shows the differences between the haves and have nots and how one sweet pastor's daughter seeks to help the have nots.

The story is infused with a budding romance between the Earl and the pastor's daughter although their society's mores coupled with Miss Ellison's strong minded will and contempt for the arrogance she perceives in the Earl (Nicholas) seems to doom it from ever blossoming.

A serious illness coupled with Miss Ellison falling ill and collapsing along the path home during a raging winter storm brings the two together although it still looks as though a relationship is doomed.

I am looking forward to reading more from the author, Carolyn Miller as she carries us further into the lives of those who lived during this period of history.

About the book: "Handsome appearance counts for naught unless matched by good character and actions." That's the firm opinion of not-so-meek minister's daughter Lavinia Ellison. So even though all the other villagers of St. Hampton Heath are swooning over the newly returned seventh Earl of Hawkesbury, she is not impressed. If a man won't take his responsibilities seriously and help those who are supposed to be able to depend on him, he deserves no respect from her. In Lavinia's pretty, gray eyes, Nicholas Stamford is just as arrogant and reckless as his brother--who stole the most important person in Livvie's world. Nicholas is weighed down by his own guilt and responsibility, by the pain his careless brother caused, and by the legacy of war he's just left. This quick visit home to St. Hampton Heath will be just long enough to ease a small part of that burden. Asking him to bother with the lives of the villagers when there's already a bailiff on the job is simply too much to expect. That is, until the hoydenish, intelligent, and very opinionated Miss Ellison challenges him to see past his pain and pride. With her angelic voice in his head, he may even be beginning to care. But his isn't the only heart that needs to change. These two lonely hearts may each have something the other needs. But with society's opposition, ancestral obligations, and a shocking family secret, there may be too many obstacles in their way. Fans of Georgette Heyer, Lori Wick, and Julie Klassen will enjoy the spirited exchanges between the bluestocking minister's daughter and the bruised war hero as they move past pride and presumption to a humbled appreciation of God's grace and the true strength of love.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Kregel Publishing on behalf of the author to facilitate a review. Opinions are solely my own and I was not compensated.

A Moonbow Night by Laura Frantz

My thoughts: First of all, I was struck by curiosity about the probability of a "Moonbow" (think.... "rainbow" but at night). So as I began reading Laura Frantz's latest frontier story, I did a bit of research - specifically into the Moonbow in the Kentucky area. Fascinating bit of information and, yes, they do exist!

The first pages of A Moonbow Night left me feeling the cold icy sting of a Winter storm in the mountains of Western North Carolina and East Tennessee. As the surveyors trekked through the woods trying to avoid the Indians by being as quiet as possible and not lighting the fire that could warm their feet and cook food that would bring their body temperatures to more normal range, the cold seeped into their very being.

It is 1777 and the surveying party of men was surprised to find three women and a man managing an inn of sorts in an isolated part of the wilderness, but they were delighted to partake of the wonderful food and shelter from the elements after being on the trail so long.

Frantz is a true-to-the-period author as she writes of happenings, people, and the land of early frontier days in the settlement of America. In this story, the British were inciting the Indians against the westward movement of settlers and particularly surveyors. It simply was not a safe land through which to perilously journey.

This is a book of historical Christian fiction that brings the reader a terrific frontier adventure and a sweet romance as it develops between two individuals who have previously experienced great personal loss and who are strong characters.

About the book: After fleeing Virginia, Temperance Tucker and her family established an inn along the Shawnee River. It's a welcome way station for settlers and frontiersmen traveling through the wild Cumberland region of Kentucke--men like Sion Morgan, a Virginia surveyor who arrives at the inn with his crew looking for an experienced guide. When his guide appears, Sion balks. He certainly didn't expect a woman. But it is not long before he must admit that Tempe's skill in the wilderness rivals his own. Still, the tenuous tie they are forming is put to the test as they encounter danger after danger and must rely on each other.

With her signature sweeping style and ability to bring the distant past to vivid life, Laura Frantz beckons readers to join her in a land of Indian ambushes, conflicting loyalties, and a tentative love that meanders like a cool mountain stream.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher to facilitate a review of my personal opinions. I was not compensated for a reward.

Conspiracy of Silence (The Tox Files #1) by Ronie Kendig

ISBN13: 9780764217654
Bethany House Publishing

My thoughts: When you crack the spine of Conspiracy of Silence by Ronie Kendig, you'd best prepare for an enthralling read packed with fast paced action. Having never read a Ronie Kendig book, I wasn't prepared for the detailed action description and the intriguing multi-layered story.

This was a hard-to-put-down book; although when I first looked at my copy, I thought to myself this is going to be a long, strung-out read. I was so surprised that those 400 plus pages just rapidly flipped by with multi-continental locations, a dip into ancient and medieval history involving holy censors and the Codex (early bound Biblical leaves, sheets), and a plague of Biblical proportions.

I can hardly wait to read book two in "The Tox Files" to see just what Cole 'Tox' Russell gets himself involved. I loved the interaction in the team of men that worked with Tox and, of course, the character of Kelsy and her history and current interaction with Tox.

About the book: When an archaeological dig unleashes a centuries-old virus, paramilitary operative Cole ‘Tox’ Russell is forced back into action. With the help of archaeologist Tzivia Khalon and FBI agent Kasey Cortes, Tox searches for answers—and becomes entangled in a web of deception. As the team races to stop a pandemic, a secret society counters their every move.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by Bethany House Publishing to facilitate this review of my original opinions. I was not compensated for a review.

Fatal Frost (Defenders of Justice #1) by Nancy Mehl - Mehl Ramps Up the Suspense in This Brand-New U.S. Marshals Series [review & giveaway]

Read an Excerpt - click here

My thoughts: Previous books by Nancy Mehl have focused on Mennonite or Amish communities interacting amongst those in secular communities and often laced with a strong element of suspense. In Fatal Frost Mehl steps firmily into the suspense genre aligning her characters in the U.S.Marshal camp and with the world of protection, gang-bashers,  and drug cartels.

I say this is a good fit for Mehl's talents as she takes the reader into the corruption that drugs, murder, and ill-gained money place characters. As the title indicates, the death defying chill of a severe winter storm and the deadly pursuit of evil men takes the reader into the mind, actions, and horrors of a spine chilling suspense read. Frosty indeed!

Character development is excellent and reveals weaknesses and strengths of each of the major players. Corruption in high places as well as low-life gang members run a strong thread of fearful encounters throughout the book. There is, however, a promise of hope as characters share their Christian faith.

As the first book in a series of Defenders of Justice, Fatal Frost has given me a sure-fire appetite for additional "defenders of justice" stories. Thanks Nancy Mehl for a good, Christian read.

About the book: Mercy Brennan followed in her father's footsteps in a law enforcement career, but she has no interest in any other connection to him. A U.S. Marshal in St. Louis, Missouri, she's assigned to a joint task force with the St. Louis PD that puts her back into contact with her father and in the sights of St. Louis's most powerful gang.

When the gang has reason to believe Mercy has possession of some highly sensitive and incriminating information, her boss assigns Mark St. Laurent--a Deputy U.S. Marshal and Mercy's ex-boyfriend--to get her out of town until they can guarantee her safety.

Initially unaware of the danger she's in and uncomfortable working with Mark, Mercy's frustration escalates when she discovers the extent her boss and Mark have been keeping her in the dark. It isn't until a freak ice storm hits, stranding them at a remote location and out of contact with the district office, that the full severity of their situation becomes clear. As the storm worsens, the forces of nature combine with a deadly enemy closing in to put their lives at imminent risk. Can they survive long enough for help to arrive--if help is even coming at all?

GIVEAWAY E-Book Copy of Fatal Frost

Begins January 2, 2017 @  8:30 p.m.

ENDS January 21, 2017 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Find it at Bethany House (a division of Baker Publishing)

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the author to facilitate a review of my honest opinions. I was not compensated and opinions are given freely.

Where Does Love Hide? by Mary Manz Simon

ISBN13: 9781496411686

Tyndale House Publishers

TyndaleKids

About the book: In Where Does Love Hide? children are reminded that they not only receive love but have the opportunity to share love. Looking under the fun, lift-a-flap feature, children will see examples of everyday love opportunities. Each page includes a memory verse and an example of a way to share God's love. In life, children hear the words "I love you" repeatedly, often beginning before birth. However, because love is an abstract concept and young children are concrete thinkers, they must gradually learn to understand love by what they experience. In Where Does Love Hide? children are given the opportunity to see love in action and learn what love looks like.

My thoughts: One of the first and most precious verses I taught my five children when they were wee ones was, "We love Him, because He first loved us." I John 4:19. This truth of God's love and the root of all Earthly love is so important to convey to children at an early age.

In Where Does Love Hide? the text simplifies acts of love by showing that love is shown by helping, sharing, being respectful. As the book is read to the young child, he or she can lift the flap and see how love is conveyed (clue: it is hiding behind the flap as well as in what we do).

This is a board book of medium size. The "board" pages and covers are softer than those of many board books, but quite durable. As with any "lift the flap" books, care should be taken to gently lift the flap.

A nice little book and a great lesson to teach the little ones.

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the
Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant  per mailing address, per  giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

1 John 4:10-19King James Version (KJV)

10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.
12 No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.
13 Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
14 And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.
15 Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.
16 And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.
17 Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.
18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
19 We love him, because he first loved us.

Lucifer's Harvest The Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton, Surgeon (Book 9) by Mel Starr

9781782641889 | $14.99
Paperback | Lion Fiction

About the book: King Charles of France has announced that he is confiscating Aquitaine, and Prince Edward has sent for knights and men-at-arms from England to assist him in opposing the French king. Lord Gilbert Talbot is required to provide five knights, twelve squires, and twenty archers and men-at-arms, and he wishes his surgeon--Hugh de Singleton--to travel with the party, leaving Hugh's wife Kate to oversee the castle in their absence.

It won't be an easy journey. Among the party will be Sir Simon Trillowe, Kate's former suitor, who had once set fire to Hugh's house. After a brawl on the streets of Oxford, Sir Simon had nearly lost an ear; Hugh had sewn it back on, but when it healed crooked, Simon blamed Hugh for the disfigurement.

Finding himself in the company of his old nemesis, Hugh resolves not to turn his back on the knight--but it is Sir Simon who should not have turned his back.

My thoughts: I have read several in the Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton, Surgeon by Mel Starr and found each to be entertaining, enlightening as to the historical aspects, and refreshing. I was looking forward with delight to another Hugh de Singleton read and romp through the paths and over the streams of medieval England. That was not the case in this shortened episode in the ongoing tale.

This story centers around the battle between English (Prince Edward) army and the France ending with the routing of the French from Limones. It is essentially the march of the English toward French after crossing the English Channel, the encampment, and the activities of the men in the entourage of the Prince.

Hugh de Singleton becomes embroiled in solving the murder of a soldier and is given latitude to try find the true murderer because of a certainty Hugh de Singleton did no murder. Singleton proceeds with his usual methodical analysis of location, people, and deeds and does come to the solution; and in finding out who did it, the cause becomes apparent. The deed was accomplished by and as a result of a perversion.

I was surprised that perversion was a part of one of these stories. It was handled well and as Singleton said, "You cannot escape death..... No man can do so. But you may escape sin. To those who confess their wickedness the Lord Christ is merciful, though men are not. The Lord Christ judges a man, I think, not by where he has been, but by where he is going - the way he faces."

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Kregel to facilitate an honest review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated.

Also an Octopus by Maggie Tokuda-Hall & illustrated by Benji Davies [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts: At first glance upon picking up Also An Octopus one thinks, "Oh! Another adorable kiddie picture book." But then upon delving into this first-time author's debut (redundant, huh!) book, there is a bit more meat to the story than cutsie octopuses and kiddies and fantastic folks in unreal places.

Now we don't want to overthink a kid's book because that might just take away from the fun of reading. But what is the harm in discovering that the "rest of the story" is the beginning of the story or the making of the story.

We start with a character - like a kid. We add in others - also an Octopus and that makes for fun - and as they say, "...a little bit of nothing." And then if you struggle through the making of the story and it flops, then you can take that and a little bit of nothing and go again for another try.

So it is cute story line that encourages and gives a basic story structure beginning with "..a little bit of nothing." And it is also simply a cute kid's picture book with delightful characters, smiles, happiness, and positive thoughts.

About the book: Even the most totally awesome story starts with a little bit of nothing. What happens next is up to you! A delightfully meta picture book that will set imaginations soaring.

It begins with an octopus who plays the ukulele. Since this is a story, the octopus has to want something—maybe to travel to faraway galaxies in a totally awesome purple spaceship. Then the octopus sets out to build a spaceship out of soda cans, glue, umbrellas, glitter, and waffles. OK, maybe the octopus needs some help, like from an adorable bunny friend, and maybe that bunny turns out to be . . . a rocket scientist? (Probably not.) But could something even more amazing come to pass?

GIVEAWAY - 2 winners each win a copy

Begins December 1

ENDS December 10 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to US/CANADA. No PO Boxes

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Candlewick Press to failitate a review of my honest opinions which are freely given. Giveaway copy is provided and mailed directly to winner by Candlewick.

As the Leaves Kiss the Stream by Terry Barnes

My thoughts: Occasionally one is given the opportunity to delve into the pages of a story that grips the heart, angers, encourages, blesses, and leaves you in awe. I felt as though I was reading a true, biographical novel of a father and daughter. Based on truth? I don't know, but it rings true with the depth of love, frustration, anger that is revealed in the persons of the father and daughter.

I admit that I'm simply not someone who knows a whit about fishing - especially fly fishing. There is a lot about the art and skill and actions involved in fly fishing. The writer uses this quite aptly and ingeniously as a descriptive tool that digs deep into the emotion, spiritual, and physical angst of the time and place.

Well written and worth sharing with friends. Caution though..... there is a lot of anger on the part of the teen daughter as she lashes out at her mother and father, against life in general, and especially against all things religious.

This is a clean read and one I can easily recommend to my readers. A short 116 pages rich in wisdom.

About the book: ... a story about a father and his seventeen-year-old daughter. He is a missionary; she is a problem.

Together they go camping and fly fishing in the Ozarks. Together they clash and argue.

Then one cold, October morning as they fly fished beside the pure water of the stream, together they learned something about grace.

For the tears of a father ... are as the tears of God ... that fall silently and caress the one beloved, much as the autumn leaves that gently fall and kiss the stream.

GIVEAWAY

Begins November 26

ENDS December 10 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway 
DISCLOSURE: I was given a complimentary copy by the author to facilitate a review of my own opinions which are freely given.

Trust My Heart by Carol J. Post

My thoughts: To begin with I'll share my "take away" thoughts from this book. It seems to focus mainly on trust and lies. Relationships are built on truth and trust and when lies are present the foundational trust is lost.

I was excited to have the opportunity to review a book set in my beloved state of North Carolina. Tucked away in the mountainous area of Western North Carolina, the areas surrounding and in Murphy conjur up beautiful sites that travelers and native North Carolinians totally love. Mountains, streams, rivers with white water rafting, picnics, beautiful trees and wonderful fresh air and great folks to get to know.

Trust My Heart involves a young successful though "burned out" attorney visiting his deceased grandparents' home and estate which he has inherited. True, he could handle the disposition of this property without going there; but he wanted to see the place his father grew up. The father he never knew. The father who was estranged from his parents and therefore the son, Grant, was kept from a relationship with the grandparents.

Upon arriving there, he meets a sweet, young lady who is a newspaper journalist and Grant detests journalists. So even though their association seems frought with mindfields from the onset, it seems that they are drawn together despite their differences.

I enjoyed the story and the book. I found Grant's reactions to some situations a bit over-the-top when a bit of time and explanation would have cleared the air and made for better outcomes. However, the author was presenting Grant with all his flaws, so that's o.k., too.

There was a bit of romance which was safe and clean and also predictable. Well, with a title like "Trust My Heart" you'd expect a bit of falling in love. Grant though a believer, did not seem to be a Christian - at least not a commited or faithful Christian. Jami is a devoted Christian.

This is a new author and a new publishing group for me. I look forward to reading more from Carol J. Post and more publications from Waterfall Press.

About the book: Grant McAllister arrives in Murphy, North Carolina, with one aim: to sell his inherited property and leave as quickly as possible.

The big-city lawyer has no interest in his late, estranged grandparents or the dilapidated mansion he just acquired. After his high-profile divorce, he should be avoiding perky reporters, too. But Jami Carlisle is honest, funny, and undeniably appealing.

After breaking up with her safe-but-smothering boyfriend, Jami is determined to ace her first big assignment. A story about the McAllister estate is too intriguing to ignore---much like its handsome, commitment-phobic heir. Thanks to her digging, the pieces of Grant's fraught family history are gradually fitting into place, but also upending all his old beliefs.

The two draw closer as they share their dreams, until misread signals and misunderstandings begin to test their trust. But in the unspoiled beauty of the Smoky Mountains, there's healing and forgiveness to be found. And for Grant, this unplanned detour may be just what's needed to finally guide him home...

 Learn more & purchase a copy

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Litfuse Publicity Group on behalf of the author and publisher to facilitate this review. I was not compensated.

We Found A Hat by Jon Klassen from Candlewick Press [Review & Giveaway - USA/CANADA]

My thoughts:  Jon Klassen seems to have a knack for the understated, the sparse, the hidden meanings when he puts forth his gems of children's books.

When I reviewed I Want My Hat Back and Sam and Dave Dig A Hole I was surprised at the simplicity of his illustrations and yet they seemed to grab your attention and shout, "I'm not simple, I'm simply understated." Again in We Found A Hat Klassen has taken the simple palette of neutrals - browns, black, and white to show how two friends or companions act when they find a hat.

One hat. Two companions or friends. As in much of life, the telling is in the eyes and so it is when one friend really, really likes and wants the hat.

Who will enjoy this children's book? Well, the dry, understated humor and art work will appeal to the sophisticated adult and the cuteness of the story and the illustrations will appeal to kids. Usually, kid's books are explosions of brilliant or perhaps pastel colors. Klassen shows how a simple palette works equally as well.

I recommend this for libraries and homes where you enjoy subtle humor, simplicity and understated story and art.

About the book: Two turtles find one hat – and it happens to look great on both of them.

GIVEAWAY - 2 Winners
Begins November 18

ENDS December 6 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to USA & CANADA addresses only. NO P.O.BOXES

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I received a complimentary copy from Candlewick to facilitate this review of my own opinions. I was not compensated. Winner's giveaway copy is provided and shipped by Candlewick directly to the winner.

Tangled Webs by Irene Hannon from Revell a division of Baker Publishing

About the book: Finn has packed away his combat instincts--but he may need them again when danger begins to stalk his quiet hideaway . . .

After a disastrous Middle East mission ends his six-year Army Ranger career, Finn McGregor needs some downtime. A peaceful month in the woods sounds like the perfect way to decompress. But peace isn't on the agenda once he crosses paths with publishing executive Dana Lewis, a neighbor who is nursing wounds of her own. Someone seems bent on disrupting her stay in the lakeside cabin she inherited from her grandfather. As Finn and Dana work together to discover who is behind the disquieting pranks, the incidents begin to take on a menacing tone. And when it becomes apparent Dana's foe may have deadly intent, Finn finds himself back in the thick of the action--ready or not.

Bestselling author and three-time RITA Award winner Irene Hannon draws readers into a web of psychological suspense where danger lurks in dark corners . . . and keeps them captive until the very last page.

My thoughts: Irene Hannon has proven time and again to be an author whose books I look forward to reading. She has not disappointed with Tangled Webs which is the third and concluding book in the series of the McGregors - Men of Valor.

I found it interesting that two damaged folks are secluding themselves, in close proximity yet separated by a veil of forest, in an effort to recover from their personal injuries and emotional scars. Not much is given to lay a foundation for their flaws, but that doesn't truly hamper the reading of their story. It might have given a bit more substance as to their limitations and their powers to overcome said limitations.

When danger comes to visit their quiet woods, Finn bounds into rescue mode and stays there throughout the book. The lovely Dana is quietly pursing her professional life albeit disconnected from the outside world by phone or Internet.

The locals are tangled up a bit in Finn and Dana's stories presenting multiple layers of danger, suspense, and mystery. I loved their trips into the quaint town for the diner's wonderful pies.

I have read all three books in the Men of Valor series and found them simply enjoyable reads. Looking forward to more from Irene Hannon's pen.

I received a complimentary copy from Revell a division of Baker Publishing Group.

If You Were Me & Lived in... Brazil & If You Were Me & Lived in... The American West by Carole P. Roman [Review & Giveaway]

The author continues her tried and true series of books written from the perspective of a 12-year-old living in the featured country or specific historical period and country. There are two distinct series yet they follow basically the same formula of the child experiencing life in the country and/or time period.

If You Were Me and Lived in . . . Brazil

ISBN: 9781532877988
Paperback $10.99
32 pages

About the book: Visit the stunning and diverse land of Brazil in the newest book of the informative "If You Were Me and Lived In...." series. Learn about the varied customs and cultures. Travel to South America to discover what you would eat and do for fun. See the land through the eyes of a youngster like you and understand what life is like in this exciting place.

My thoughts: Flipping the pages of Roman's new introduction to cultures book about Brazil will take the child on a fun trip with a 12 year old at the helm. The illustrations show features unique to Brazil - Christ the Redeemer statue atop a mountain, Brazilian Carnival (much like Mardi Gras in New Orleans), and the Amazon Rain Forest.

Discovering what Brazilians name their children, how they shop, foods they eat, attend school, watch sports, and play games is much like the reader's own life. The illustrations depict smiling and happy people with beautiful dark skin and lavish curly hair.

Roman again provides a Pronunciation Guide with short definitions at the end of the book.

This respected and loved series now covers the globe with featured countries enabling armchair journeys for children. These make good additional reading for social studies and geography studies.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

If You Were Me and Lived in the American West

ISBN: 9781532877841
Paperback $14.99
Pages 58

About the book: In Carole P. Roman's new history series, young readers travel through time to visit the most interesting civilizations throughout history in the first four books of her new series: Ancient Greece, Renaissance Italy, Viking Europe, Ancient China - and now in the American West. Learn what kind of food you might eat, the clothes you wore, what your name could be, and what children did for fun. If You Were Me and Lived in... does for history what her other award-winning series did for culture. So get on-board this time-travel machine and discover the world through the eyes of a young person just like you.

My thoughts: What Roman's cultural series has done for studying and learning about how people live in various countries, the new series touches on history and the cultural aspect of living in each of these specific time periods. In The American West book, the reader journeys aboard a wagon train in the mid 1800s with the westward migration from the eastern portion of the United States. The reader will discover this unique life event, walking vast distances, and learning how they managed to carry the items for survival needed for the journey and also for the life they would begin once they reach their destination.

Roman writes of peaceful encounters with the Native Americans along the way. I found this interesting as most accounts of wagon trains and the journey westward relate hostile actions on both sides - Native Americans and migrating settlers.

As with each book in both the cultural and historical series, daily life and relationships are a major part of the book. The glossary at the back of the book with words specific for the story defined can add instructional value to the book. Also, the two pages of short bios of famous people of the time period is especially nice.

The American West is a nice addition to a classroom or home library.

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All Summer Long by Melody Carlson, published by Revell (Contemporary Christian Fiction)

ISBN13: 9780800723583

Tia D'Amico is thrilled to move to San Francisco to help her aunt transform an old luxury yacht into an upscale floating restaurant. What's not to love? Sunset dinner cruises, posh wedding receptions--the possibilities are endless and far more appetizing than staying in a monotonous job in her Podunk hometown. Besides, some of her best memories are tied to San Francisco--especially the memory of Leo Parker, her crush from a long-ago sailing camp.

When Leo Parker himself turns out to be the yacht's captain, Tia is floating on air. But will it all come crashing down around her when she discovers his heart belongs to someone else?

My thoughts: This is a light, sweet read. So pull up a chair on the porch or at the beach or wherever you're retreating, and relax. All Summer Long moves gently through the renovation of an old yacht basking in the sun and breezes of San Francisco and the Bay. Nearby are the fabled houseboats of Sausalito and the male lead lives on one he inherited.

Having visited San Francisco several times and enjoyed the many captivating views of the City, the Bay, and the quaintness of Sausalito, I looked forward to a story set in those environs. I was not disappointed. I've seen scenes across the bay at night and in the fog and when the sun glistened on the water. I've felt the wonderful breeze. So when these were described, I felt I was there.

This is a heartwarming story that holds a charm unlike so many modern novels. Uplifting in that the main characters are people of faith and not afraid to voice their desire to pray. I love the scenes where the young folks gather on deck for gatherings around the firepit, singing and playing varied musical instruments.

This is a story that while mainly about young adults is a good read for teens, young adults, and the rest of us who have a few more years on us. A safe, clean read.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy from the publisher, Revell, to facilitate this
review. I was not compensated for the review and opinions are my own, alone.

Through the Shadows (Book #3 Golden Gate Chronicles) by Karen Barnett [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts: Stepping into history with Karen Barnett is a treat as she develops very realist characters, scenes, and events.

As San Francisco continues to reconstruct after the historically catastrophic earthquake and fire that gutted the city, corruption and evil manipulate the lives of the populace. The evils of criminal politicians, human trafficking, and racism are rife.

The good folks still exist, though, and Elizabeth King and Charles McKinley muddle through discovering how God's grace and His strength can imbue one with wisdom and virtue to carry on.

This is an absolutely riveting read and a fine conclusion to the Gold Gate Chronicles.

About the book: As San Francisco rises from the ashes, an age-old battle looms between corruption and the promise of new beginnings.

The devastating earthquake is just two years past, but the city of San Francisco is still trying to recover. Destruction of this magnitude is not so easy to overcome---and neither are the past regrets shadowing Elizabeth King's hopeful future.

Hoping to right her wrongs, Elizabeth dedicates herself to helping girls rescued from slavery in Chinatown brothels, even if it means putting her own life at risk to sneak through the gloomy alleys and rooftops where dangers lurk.

Putting her life on the line for a worthy cause is admirable. But opening her heart is even more terrifying. So when Elizabeth meets attorney Charles McKinley---a man who dreams of reforming San Francisco's crooked politics---Elizabeth begins to doubt: Can she maintain her pretense and hide her past? Or will her secret jeopardize both their futures?

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Litfuse Publicity Group to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated. Giveaway copy is provided directly to the winner via Litfuse.

My Toddler Bible By Juliet David & Chris Embleton-Hall from Candle Books

ISBN:9781781282410
$12.99 | Hardback| Candle Books​

My thoughts: Getting the little ones to sit still while we share God's Word with them can be daunting at times. So we resort to imparting God's truth to them with various tools. These can either be too dense and wordy or either too short and trite.

With the My Toddler Bible I found that the size of the book is just right for toddler's hands. The illustrations clear, bright, and enticing to the young child. Now the meat of the book is really what it says or the truth it imparts, isn't it? Well, Juliet David again does a fabulous job of giving enough, well worded text that the story is told with enough detail to gain the attention of that little listener and yet not bore them.

The clincher is this..... at the end of each little story, the truth of the story is effortlessly stated so that not only is it "story-time" but it is also "truth-in-learning" time. Wonderful!

For example: with the story of the lost sheep, the last lines are...

How pleased the shepherd was that he'd found his lost sheep again. God is happy too, when Jesus finds lost people and they return to Him.

And the parable of Sowing the Seeds....

Jesus explained this story to his friends. "Sowing the seeds is link sowing God's message," Jesus said. "Some falls on the path, or on rocky ground. People get excited by God's message - but soon they give up. But some falls on good soil. People hear God's message, and keep it in their heart.

The stories are separated into Old Testament and New Testament and follow the same sequence in which they would be found in the regular version of the Bible. Each of the 20 stories is several pages long with several lines of text and a picture on each page. The text flows effortlessly in "story-time" style.

An ideal little book for toddlers and one that they will fall in love with and ask repeatedly for "Bible Time." The toddler probably will still love this book when they begin reading on their own. And families with several children will find that this is a great way for the older children to read to the young ones.

About the book: Fans of Chris Embleton-Hall's cheerfully distinctive artwork will be eager to see this new Bible! Twenty stories--nine from the Old Testament and eleven from the New--are retold in a concise and friendly manner in a rounded, easy-to-read font. Very, very bright, and very, very fun!

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Kregel on behalf of the author and Lion Hudson publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and I was not compensated.

Whose Story Is This, Anyway? by Mike Flaherty, Oriol Vidal (Illustrations) [Interview, Review & Giveaway]

ISBN13: 9781454916086

About the book: What’s this book about? That depends on who you ask. Our humble narrator thinks he’s got a great story for you, but he barely begins before he’s interrupted . . . by a scallywag pirate with a thrilling legend of mermaids and sea monsters! Soon an entire cast of colorful characters—including a hungry dinosaur, an alien bent on world domination, and a heroic knight—derails the boy’s saga. Everyone has a tale to tell—but if they can all get on the same page, this might turn out to be the best story ever!

Let's pick the brain of this unusual tale's author, Mike Flaherty, and see a bit of what makes him "tick"......

1. I know you have children. Boys. Right? Other than the constant children's interruptions when adults are talking about something, what motivated you to write your children's story Whose Story Is This, Anyway? Was there an "ah ha!" moment that you decided this was a good direction to pursue and why?

I have two boys, 8 and 6. And while they disagree on pretty much everything, the one thing that unites them is their crusade to delay bedtime. When it comes time to pick a story, well, neither one can agree which one to read…imagine that.

 “I want the pirate story.”
“But I want the dragon story.”
“No, the time-traveling ninja robot story!”
“There is no time-traveling ninja robot story.”
“Yeah. Well, we should make one before lights out.”
“Can we read them all?”
“Yeah, we should just read ALL THE STORIES.”

While I’d love to read them all, for the sake of sanity we need bedtime stories to be done before the next full moon, so I came up with a story that crammed in as many of their favorite characters as I could. Yes, my ‘a-ha’ moment was born from a need to streamline bedtime. Now, about that time-traveling ninja robot story…

2.  Is this your first book? If so, does your current career contribute to the genesis of this new branching out to being an author?

This is my first book to be published (we shall speak nothing of the many books stashed away in the “Story Graveyard” folder on my laptop). And despite protests from 5-Year-Old Me, I grew up to be a financial advisor. Not to knock the field, but I wouldn’t say it directly contributes to my work as an author. Unless I can find a publisher for my board book “The ABCs of Prudent Financial Planning."

 3. What piece of advice would you offer to 1) parents and 2) children?

Trust your instincts. With all the advice, tips, life-hacks, and patronizing judgement that parents are bombarded with every day, it’s all too easy to lose sight of the fact that for the most part, you’re doing the parenting thing right already. Love your kids, live your life. For kids, always be curious and ask questions, but don’t stop there. Find your own answers. 

I don't know about my Chat With Vera readers, but I'm seeing the beginning of a really good children's book author and can hardly wait to see what more he has stored in that "Story Graveyard folder" on his computer. Hey publishers, are you listening????

My thoughts: This is the story of one frustrated little boy. He's got a story he is just hankering to tell and he just can't get past all the interjections, interruptions, and interfering voices of creatures, pirates, and what-all. He wants to tell HIS story and he doesn't want them butting in on him while he is getting HIS story told. The author captures this kid's frustration and lets it build and build until.....

..... in desperation and realization it dawns upon him that HIS story CAN involve all these others, too.

Love the cute, funny art drawn with bold lines and bright bold colors. Great at capturing the tone and vibrancy of the book.

I love the great sense of humor of both the author and illustrator have obviously poured into this cute book. Another good Sterling Children's Book I can heartily recommend for fun reading times at home and in libraries everywhere.

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Sterling Children's Books to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review. Illustrations provided and reprinted with permission from Whose Story Is This, Anyway? © 2016 by Mike Flaherty, Sterling Children’s Books, an imprint of Sterling Publishing Co., Inc. Illustrations © 2016 by Oriol Vidal.

The Unquiet Bones (The Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton, Surgeon #1) by Mel Starr

ISBN13: 9781854248855

Lion Hudson Publisher

Kregel Pub.

About the book: Hugh of Singleton, fourth son of a minor knight, has been educated as a clerk, usually a prelude to taking holy orders. However, he feels no real calling—despite his lively faith—and he turns to the profession of surgeon, training in Paris, and then hanging his sign in Oxford.

Soon after, a local lord asks Hugh de Singleton to track the killer of a young woman whose bones have been found in the castle cesspool. Through his medical knowledge, Singleton identifies her as the impetuous missing daughter of a local blacksmith.

The young man she loved—whom she had provoked very publicly—is quickly arrested and sentenced at Oxford. But this is just the beginning of the tale.

The story of Singleton's adventure unfolds with realistic medical procedures, droll medieval wit, romantic distractions, and a consistent underlying sense of Christian compassion.

My thoughts: To my sorrow I  began reading Melvin R. Starr's books featuring the chronicles of Hugh de Singleton, Surgeon, about mid-series. After reading several in a row, I now have the opportunity to begin at the beginning and that is with The Unquiet Bones.

If you're not familiar with Starr's wonderful qualifications to write about this period of medieval life, check him out. (click here) And if you've not read any of his "Hugh de Singleton" adventures you have missed a treat. Set in a real historical site that contains remains of Church of St Beornwald near the castle of Bampton.

Cloaked in terminology and tone that take you back to the 1300s and yet entirely readable here in the 21st century, these stories easily bring you to the place of walking the paths and conversing with the Lords, villeins, and fair maidens of that time. In the opening of The Unquiet Bones the cesspit (oh my what a stinking horror to clean) is being cleaned out and bones are found. Thought to be pig bones (and why on Earth would pig bones be in a cesspit?) but on closer examination they are found to be human. This is where the surgeon, Hugh de Singleton, is called in to do some 1300s forensic science and identify the bones and cause of death.

As the story progresses, a high ranking man's fancy garment is found in the woods and covered in leaves. This leads to more investigation. 

I have inadequate words of my own to express how enjoyable Starr's stories are. The droll expressions of Hugh de Singleton, the terse comments, and the wonderful flow of story and character development.

I highly recommend the series to anyone who wants a delightful romp in the 1300s with Hugh de Singleton, Surgeon.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Kregel on behalf of Lion Fiction and the author.

The Illustrated Compendium of Amazing Animal Facts by Maja Säfström

About the book: An artfully playful collection of unexpected and remarkable facts about animals, illustrated by Swedish artist Maja Säfström.

Did you know that an octopus has three hearts? Or that ostriches can't walk backward? These and many more fascinating and surprising facts about the animal kingdom (Bees never sleep! Starfish don't have brains!) are illustrated with whimsical detail in this charming collection.

My thoughts: When this little book arrived, I removed it from the shipping box which I disposed of and then immediately found a seat in my recliner to delve into the pages of this rather unique little book of black and white drawings and sparse text.

What a delight! What fun! And interesting wee bits of fact to tuck away knowing that you are probably the only one in your acquaintance that knows that little nugget.

I found the style of imparting facts interesting and entertaining. Just the right amount of quirky prose that educates and entertains populated generously with Maja Säfström's quirky black and white drawings that are on-spot like the critters and  yet fun to look at.

Who is it for? Well, it is not touted as for children ages this to that or grade whatever to grade whichever. It is simply ageless. Children will enjoy it and ponder it and laugh at it. Adults will enjoy it and ponder it and laugh at it. They'll all stuff wee bits of odd facts into their craniums waiting for that momentous trivia moment. So get one and share it and laugh and giggle and say "Wow!" a bit.

Stockholm-based Maja Säfström is a very gifted graphic designer and you can learn more about here by clicking here.  @MajasBok Instagram And more from Penguin Random House

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the Blogging For Books Review Program on behalf of the publisher and author. Opinions are my own and freely given.