Waiting for Morning by Margaret Brownley ~ review

In "Waiting For Morning" I was transported back to the year 1896. Life hadn't been easy for Molly Hatfield and her brother Donny. Their parents are dead, and Donny is bound to a wheelchair, something that Molly blames herself for. She works in a saloon and takes care of Donny the best that she can, but when a fire causes them to lose the only home they have she knows she will have to do something else. Unfortunately finding a job isn't such an easy thing to do, so when she learns of a job opening in Arizona where a ranch owner is looking for someone to take over the management of his ranch in return of owning it in the future,she jumps at the chance. Working on The Last Chance ranch is far from easy but Molly is determined to make it work. As if she doesn't have enough on her plate the towns unmarried doctor takes an interest in her and Donny. Will she find what she was looking for at The Last Chance Ranch and realize that God has something great in store for her and Donnie?

A very enjoyable historical read. I found myself totally drawn to the character of Molly. It was easy to see that she sincerely loved her brother Donny. There are several secondary characters that really move the plot of this story along. I also enjoyed the story of  Orbit and Magic and think there appearances really enhanced the story. As a historical fiction this was an engaging story that I would recommend. 

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

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.