Betrayal by Robin Lee Hatcher

Julia Grace had been married for eleven years to Angus Grace, and now that he was dead, she finally truly felt free, and truthfully cared less if she ever married again. Thing is her husband's half brother wants her ranch, and marriage might be the only way that she can keep it. When Hugh Brennan, a drifter winds up at her farm looking for work , she allows him to stay, he recognizes a kindred soul, and feels drawn to Julia. Will he perhaps be the answer to Julia's problems, and can she open her heart to another man?

Historical fiction has always been an interesting genre for me, and I found the time frame and setting in this story drew me right in. Julia and Hugh were two characters who were dealing with issues stemming from the past. Both characters seemed very realistic and had me wanting to know their story. While "Betrayal" is the second book in the Where The Heart Lives series, it can easily be read as a stand alone book. Betrayal was the first book I have ever read by Robin Lee Hatcher, but it won't be the last. I enjoyed the sneak peek of the next book in the series titled "Beloved" and anxiously await it's release. Historical inspirational fiction with a western setting made this a very appealing story for me. 

rating 4/5

The Gaither Homecoming Bible ~ review

I don't ever remember a time when I wasn't a fan of Bill and Gloria Gaither, and their wonderful ministry. So when I learned that there was a Bible being published that featured not only them but many wonderful people who have come into contact with the Gaither's during the years.

There are so many things that make this Bible unique. First of all we are introduced to the people who contributed to the writing of the Bible by providing short devotionals that are peppered through the pages. Then there is a page that has several different pictures of the Gaither Vocal Band. Another wonderful feature is the Hymns and songs that are included. I loved reading the lyrics to some of my favorite gospel songs. The pages are filled with soft colors and soothing background pictures that add to the overall uniqueness. If this isn't enough there is a section that allows the owner to fill in their family tree, as well as important dates ensuring that this Bible will easily become a family heirloom. A wonderful gift for anyone who has ever enjoyed the Gaither Homecoming show whether live or on TV  but it is also perfect for anyone just looking for a special Bible, written in the easy to understand translation of NKJV. I have already purchased a few to give as Christmas gifts and I am certain the recipients are going to love it! 

A complimentary copy of this Bible was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

The River by Michael Neale ~ review

 "  The River" by Michael Neale was a comfortable read, the opening lines in the prologue really describe     how I felt about this book," it's hard to explain how a powerful story can resonate within us on so many levels, but it's often the way they speak with passion, heartache or even joy. Maybe it's the way they unknowingly reach into our hear of hearts with their words." A story that allows us to glimpse the journey that a boy takes on his way to manhood. Gabriel Clark was forever changed when he saw his father drown in the River. It changed his life forever, he became angry, and steered clear of any real challenges, instead always opting for safe and comfortable while growing up in Kansas. When he gets an opportunity to go on a trip that will allow him to face his fears, he decides that it is time to face his past in the hopes of a new future.

This book was a quick read, one that really makes the reader think. There are several spiritual messages woven into the story, and the greatest one for me had me examining how I handle my own problems. A great story for anyone who needs a bit of spiritual encouragement.  

A copy of this book was provided by Booksneeze for review.All opinions are my own.

The Reason by William Sirls ~ review

"The Reason" was different kind of read for me, one that once I started reading I was loathe to put down. I will admit the first couple of chapters took a bit to get thru, but that was because we were learning all the characters in the story, but once I figured out who was who I was drawn in. 

When a severe thunder storm strikes a tiny Michigan town, part of the aftermath is that a fifteen foot cross that been a landmark, a beacon and symbol for so many that had been in front of St. Thomas church is has been damaged, leaving everyone in the congregation wondering how and if it can be repaired. About the same time a mysterious stranger happens into town, who wants to help repair the cross, but in the end he does so much more.

This is one of those stories that really portrays its characters as real people with real problems,easy to connect with. The character that really stands out for me was Kenneth.He always seemed to be wherever he was needed, and the message of just believe was one that was needed. While I was a bit dissapointed with the ending, overall I did enjoy this book. There is a reading guide included which would make this book perfect for book group discussion.

A complimentary copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.

The Choice by Robert Whitlow ~ review

"The Choice" by Robert Whitlow is a book that really grabbed me from the beginning.It's a thought provoking story about choices and how they affect our lives.The year is 1974 and Sandy Lincoln seem to have everything a young girl could want. She is a popular girl has her dream boyfriend and is a cheer leader. Her world is turned upside down though when she winds up pregnant. The choices she decides to make aren't easy, but she makes them none the less. 

Then we fast forward and the second half of the story becomes about a grown up Sandy, as a teacher she finds herself helping a teen girl in the same position she was in all those years ago."The Choice" is one of those books that once you start reading you really can't put down. I found myself drawn to the characters and what they were going thru. As a male reader of this story, I found myself thinking about the time period in which Sandy had to make her choice verses the difference in the way the world views things thirty years later when she is helping to guide someone else. Even though I hadn't heard of this author before picking up this story, I now will be looking for more of his work, because he certainly has a way of telling a story that will have it worming into your head and staying put even after you finish reading it.

This book was provided by Booksneeze in exchange for an honest review.

What You Need To Know About Bible Prophecy by Max Anders

"What You Need To Know About Bible Prophecy" is an easy to use and understand workbook that teaches the user the basics of  Christian faith. It is written in down to earth easy to understand manner, which makes it easy to understand.Perfect for someone that is new to Christianity, but also great for someone who is looking to expand their knowledge a bit. Great to use alone, but also because of the way it is written it would work very well in a group setting and even provides a teaching outline to help teachers get the most out of this book.


There are twelve chapters and within each chapter the user is presented with a topic of study that is generally several pages long. Then there are a few pages filled with question, with subheadings such as Speed Bump, which is questions about what was just read, fill in the blank, which is just what it says, it is a statement which leaves an intricate part out and the user fills in the blank. A section called for further thought and discussion which pose questions for the user to ponder, a what if I don't believe area and then a section called for further study, that lists several scripture verses that the user can look up.


Overall a great little study tool that is easy to use and understand. A great way to learn a bit about Bible Prophecy.


A complimentary copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.


Synopsis from Goodreads:
Prophets. Rapture. Tribulation. Judgment. End times. Learn what the Bible has to say about prophecy, how Christians differ in their views of the end times, and what the universal aspects are on which all Christians agree. The Max Anders "What You Need to Know About" series is made up of ten 12-lesson study guides covering the fundamentals of Christianity. The ten books in the series together form a "Basic Knowledge" program for seekers, new believers, and veteran believers who want a stronger foundation in the Christian faith.

Features include:

12 lessons that can be completed in under 1 hour each

Real-life application of biblical truth

Explanations of prominent Christian views on each topic

Easy-to-teach lessons, including previews and summary features

Questions for discussion

Core teachings on Christianity that will challenge any seeker, new believer, or veteran believer looking for a stronger foundation.

Arms of Love by Kelly Long

"Arms of Love" by Kelly Long is really different than any other Amish story that I have read. First of all it takes place back in 1777, and secondly it deals with abuse. The time setting was unique, and the topic of abuse was one I don't think I had encountered before in Amish fiction.

Adam Wyse is in love with Lena Yoder, but he is also grappling with a dark secret,his father is abusive toward him but Lena's mother Mary knows the truth, and makes Adam make a death bed promise to her to back away from Lena until he can break free of his father's rule. Lena doesn't know about the promise and doesn't understand what is going on and finds herself turning to Adam's brother Isaac. Which brother will ultimately win Lena's heart? Will Adam ever be able to understand why his father is so cruel? Read this interesting story and find out!

I really loved the time period in which this story takes place, and while Adam and Lena are the primary characters in the story, there are several secondary ones to keep the plot moving at a pretty brisk pace. Adam was such a wonderful person, but honestly for most of the book I really didn't like his brother Isaac, it galled me that he could stand by and see his brother's maltreatment. I really thought it was clever how the character of Ruth, the Englisher wet nurse that came to help out after Lena's mother died during childbirth. I really hope to read more about her in a future novel. While I found this story an interesting read,I found parts of it repetitive. A good story but  I actually enjoyed her "Patch of Heaven" series much more. Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the genre of Amish fiction.

A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

American Patriot's Bible

As a person who enjoys reading history as well as studying God's word this Bible is perfect. No matter what I say my review can't do this Bible justice. From the vivid illustrations to the full colored sections that delve into different aspects of our countries history that literally captured my eye from the moment I opened the cover, has made this Bible the one that I pick up to read daily.

To describe the quality of the Bible I would say that it is very sturdy and will easily stand up to daily reading. The large print makes it easy to read and the antique white coloring of the pages are very eye appealing. As far as navigating this one its a snap with the subject index  that is included in the back. The concordance as well as the list of presidents and list of states and the date that they were admitted as a state are just added bonuses in my book!

A perfect blending of God and country! This Bible would make a wonderful gift, for anyone who loves history and loves the Lord. The dust cover on this Bible is so eye appealing that when I am not reading it I have it displayed on my coffee table. I can honestly say there isn't one thing I would change about this Bible!

Product Details

• Hardcover: 1640 pages
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson; Gift edition (February 14, 2012)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 141854891X
• ISBN-13: 978-1418548919

Book Description

Publication Date: February 14, 2012

THE ONE BIBLE THAT SHOWS HOW 'A LIGHT FROM ABOVE' SHAPED OUR NATION. Never has a version of the Bible targeted the spiritual needs of those who love our country more than The American Patriot's Bible. This extremely unique Bible shows how the history of the United States connects the people and events of the Bible to our lives in a modern world. The story of the United States is wonderfully woven into the teachings of the Bible and includes a beautiful full-color family record section, memorable images from our nation's history and hundreds of enlightening articles which complement the historic King James Version Bible text.

Heart of Gold by Robin Lee Hatcher ~ review

 

My thoughts about this book:
"Heart of Gold" is a historical fiction that takes the reader on a wonderfully adventurous journey to west during the heart of the civil war.Even though Shannon Dailey moves to Idaho territory with her father who is a minister.Her heart is back home in Virginia where the Civil War is raging. There she had an important job of nursing injured soldiers, and can't help but wish she was back home. She wonders if she will ever feel at home in her new home, but when an ill woman needs her help she finally realizes what her purpose is, it's to take care of the woman and help ease her pain.Matthew Dubois is one of the best drivers for Wells Fargo, but when his sister Alice tells him that she is sick and needs his help he goes to her and his nephew. What he finds out is that Alice is dying, and he is going to have to care for Alice's son Todd, he knows he is going to need help, and the help is Shannon. How will things work out for Shannon, Matthew and what about Todd?


I really enjoyed the setting of this story, the author really pulled me right back in time. I really enjoy historical fiction that is set around the civil war and this one fit the bill. The characters were very easy to like in this story, I found that the story that revolved around Alice was the most heart wrenching, knowing that she was dying and wanting the best for her son Todd. This book also deals with prejudices and accepting people for who they were. The romance that develops between the main characters was slow to build and sweet, very well written for an inspirational romance.
A great story for anyone who enjoys historical fiction that weaves together a bit of romance and inspiration into the mix, the fact that the story takes place around the civil war was an added bonus. My first book by this author but certainly it won't be my last.


A copy of this book was provided by Booksneeze review program in exchange for an honest review.

Book Description from Amazon.com:

Publication Date: February 14, 2012

The truest treasure is found deep in the heart.
Back in her beloved Virginia, Shannon Adair loved nursing injured soldiers back to health. But in Grand Coeur, Idaho-the rough-and-tumble place where her father has been called to lead the church-she's not sure where she fits in. Then a critically ill woman arrives, and Shannon knows her place at last: to care for this dear woman and ease her pain.
Matthew Dubois is the fastest and most reliable stagecoach driver on Wells Fargo's payroll. But his widowed sister is dying and he's about to inherit his young nephew. So he takes a job at the Wells Fargo express office in Grand Coeur until he can find the one thing he needs to get back to driving: a wife to care for the boy.

What neither of them knows is that God is at work behind the scenes-and is lovingly bringing them together to discover the true desires of their hearts.