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About the Book
Author: Mollie Rushmeyer
Genre: Christian Contemporary Fiction
Publisher: Love Inspired Trade
Release Date: October 25, 2022
A collection of lost books holds the clues to her family's legacy…and her future.
Hope Sparrow has mastered the art of outrunning her tragic past, learning never to stay anywhere too long and never to allow anyone control over her life again. Coming to Wanishin Falls in search of her family's history already feels too risky. But somewhere in the towering stacks of this dusty old bookshop are the books that hold Hope's last ties to her late mother—and to a rumored family treasure that could help her start over.
Only, the bookshop is in shambles, and the elderly owner is in the beginning stages of dementia and can’t remember where the books lie. To find the last links to the loved ones she's lost, Hope must stay and accept help from the townsfolk to locate the treasured volumes. Each secret she uncovers brings her closer to understanding where she came from. But the longer she stays in the quaint town, the more people find their way into the cracks in her heart. And letting them in may be the greatest risk of all…
Hope Sparrow has mastered the art of outrunning her tragic past, learning never to stay anywhere too long and never to allow anyone control over her life again. Coming to Wanishin Falls in search of her family's history already feels too risky. But somewhere in the towering stacks of this dusty old bookshop are the books that hold Hope's last ties to her late mother—and to a rumored family treasure that could help her start over.
Only, the bookshop is in shambles, and the elderly owner is in the beginning stages of dementia and can’t remember where the books lie. To find the last links to the loved ones she's lost, Hope must stay and accept help from the townsfolk to locate the treasured volumes. Each secret she uncovers brings her closer to understanding where she came from. But the longer she stays in the quaint town, the more people find their way into the cracks in her heart. And letting them in may be the greatest risk of all…
My Thoughts
As soon as I saw the cover of this book I knew I wanted to read it. I mean what is not to love about a setting that is in a bookshop?! I mean that is a book nerds dream. Not only is the book cover amazing but the storyline is spectacular. This is Mollie Rushmeyer's debut novel and she did such an amazing job with it. I truly did not what to expect but the story is so much more than what the summary relays.
I was completely captured by the characters. We meet Hope who steps into Dusty Jackets a bookshop owned by an elderly couple. She is looking for her mothers books that she has left her. Immediately you can tell that she has secrets that she doesn't want to divulge them. She is closed off and doesn't like people getting close to her but she can't help it after all she in a small town where everyone knows everyone and everything. Her mother has left her these classic books with clues to a treasure. In trying to find her books she meets wonderful people in the town including Ronan which is the grandson of the owner of the bookstore. He is not without his own hurts and past but together they manage to overcome their hurts.
I can't tell you too much because it will ruin it for you but know that this story definitely has its twists and turns. It has a bit suspense and of course there is romance. But most of all there is a strong element of faith and the way the author incorporates it into the clues of the treasure hunt is very unique. Kudos to the author as well for tackling some deep subjects that some may shy away from. The topic of dementia and human trafficking are a big part of the story and the author does present them in a gentle but touching way. She does make you feel the pain and suffering that Hope has gone through and truly connects you to the character.
Overall I really enjoyed this story and I cannot wait to read Mollie's future books. I am hoping she writes about one of the characters in this story. I think she could use her own book! (I won't tell you who it is but if you read this I think you will see who I am talking about!)
My Rating: 4 Stars/Really Liked it!
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
About the Book
Book: The Lost Melody
Author: Joanna Davidson Politano
Genre: Historical Christian Romance
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: October 4, 2022
When concert pianist Vivienne Mourdant's father dies, he leaves to her the care of an adult ward she knew nothing about. The woman is supposedly a patient at Hurstwell Asylum. The woman's portrait is shockingly familiar to Vivienne, so when the asylum claims she was never a patient there, Vivienne is compelled to discover what happened to the figure she remembers from childhood dreams.
The longer she lingers in the deep shadows and forgotten towers at Hurstwell, the fuzzier the line between sanity and madness becomes. She hears music no one else does, receives strange missives with rose petals between the pages, and untangles far more than is safe for her to know. But can she uncover the truth about the mysterious woman she seeks? And is there anyone at Hurstwell she can trust with her suspicions?
Fan-favorite Joanna Davidson Politano casts a delightful spell with this lyrical look into the nature of women's independence and artistic expression during the Victorian era--and now.
The longer she lingers in the deep shadows and forgotten towers at Hurstwell, the fuzzier the line between sanity and madness becomes. She hears music no one else does, receives strange missives with rose petals between the pages, and untangles far more than is safe for her to know. But can she uncover the truth about the mysterious woman she seeks? And is there anyone at Hurstwell she can trust with her suspicions?
Fan-favorite Joanna Davidson Politano casts a delightful spell with this lyrical look into the nature of women's independence and artistic expression during the Victorian era--and now.
My Thoughts
Wow!! Another amazing story from Joanna! I always look forward to her books. They are always filled with depth and the characters are so believable. This book is no different. I honestly did not know what to expect the summary truly is just a little sampling of what this book entails. There is SO much happening here and it was hauntingly beautiful and I must admit this was one of those books that I tried really hard not to look at the back of the book to see how it ended. Trust me it is hard not to an I'm glad I didn't because I would've ruined all the surprises.
Vivienne Mourdant is the main character in this story. She is a concert pianist who wants to not only play music because it flows through her but she wants to help women in need. Those that come from abusive homes. Her father was not the kindest of men and when he passes she sees her future as it should be but boy do things go awry as she tries to uncover who this ward is that her father has been hiding at Hurstwell Asylum. While she is at the asylum twists and turns begin to happen as she is admitted as a patient rather than an employee. I will not spoil it for you so you will definitely have to find out on your own.
Politano does an excellent job at bringing life at an asylum to life. You can tell that she has done her research especially in that time period that she is writing in. The reasons that people ended up in asylums was unbelievable. The treatable reasons that we may know today such as dementia, post-partum depression, autism are some of the reasons people ended up in these institutions. Sadly even if you were of another race, culture or even if someone wanted to hide you away they could do so if enough payment could be provided.
I absolutely loved how music played a part in this story. I believe that music does play a huge part on our mental health and it resonates with those that their mind may have wondered. It releases endorphins and gets the mind going. The way that music resonated with the patients was beautiful. I think this is the part of the story that stayed with me because despite the circumstances you see how Vivienne has grown. How she has let God truly let her be the light amongst the dark circumstances. She starts seeing who she really is in God and how he wants to use her.
There is romance in this story as well. It is not the grandiose because its not the complete focus of the story but it was there and it was so perfect. Here is another thing that I absolutely loved and probably because I have read a few of Politano's book but the storyline that is in the book that goes along with characters from her book A Midnight Dance was perfect and what an amazing close to those characters. I will admit I stopped in disbelief when I realized who they were. Again I will not spoil it for you but it was amazing!
This book was beautiful, touching, hard, sad and perfect in every way. I cannot talk it up more if I could give it more than 5 stars I would! If you enjoy her stories you will enjoy this book. If you have never read her books add them to your list!
My Rating: 5 Stars/Absolutely LOVED it!
Favorite Musings/Quotes:
"Perhaps God saw fit to to break down who you were becoming and help you build back up the right way. To prepare you for something greater."
"That light shining out of you is not some sort of magical glow of your own, you know. It's him. It's God in you, and what candle God lights..." "What God has set ablaze , no man can extinguish."
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Joanna Davidson Politano freelances for a small nonfiction publisher but spends much of her time spinning tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives. Her manuscript for Lady Jayne Disappears was a finalist for several contests, including the 2016 Genesis Award from ACFW, and won the OCW Cascade Award and the Maggie Award for Excellence. She is always on the hunt for random acts of kindness, people willing to share their deepest secrets with a stranger, and hidden stashes of sweets. She lives with her husband and their two babies in a house in the woods near Lake Michigan and shares stories that move her at www.jdpstories.com.
About the Book
Book: The Love of a Princess
Author: Ashton E. Dorow
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Series: The Royals of Acuniel
Release Date: September 20, 2022
Princess Adelaide of Acuniel forsook her dreams of a love match the day she agreed to a marriage treaty with the Crown Prince of Trilaria. While nothing like her childhood expectations, her life with Prince Miles is simple, comfortable. But then a plague ravages Trilaria, leaving her a widow and the kingdom without a ruler, and her new life is thrown into chaos. Her mother-in-law begs her to return to her father’s house, but Adelaide refuses, pledging to stand by the newly widowed queen and the kingdom she has come to love. No matter what the future may hold.
Two potential heirs are found in the twin nephews of the late king, but only one can ascend the throne. Upon the discovery of critical information, Adelaide’s mother-in-law contrives a daring plan to have the right man chosen. Acting on this plan could cost Adelaide everything… Or it could open the door to a future beyond her wildest imaginings.
My Thoughts
It was lovely to return to the Royals of Acuniel. After reading Ashton's debut novel The Peasant Queen I was anxiously awaiting this book. Her first book was amazing and I must say she did an excellent job with this story as well. While her first book was a retelling of Esther this one is a loose retelling of Ruth. If you have ever read that story in the Bible you will be able to tell the similarities and also the differences that the author includes in the story.
This story definitely takes you on an emotional journey. There were times I was close to tears, then I was holding my breath to see what would be coming next and if it would turn out the way I wanted it to. At times I was so upset at certain characters that weren't doing what they were supposed to! It was definitely a journey that was well worth reading and being consumed in. It definitely made you turn the pages.
The characters of Adelaide and Nicholas!! Gosh could they be more real?! Adelaide was so giving of herself and never hesitated to not only marry someone she wasn't completely in love with but tragedy strikes she decides to remain with her mother-in-law and her new home. Nicholas is an amazing male character. He is definitely swoon worthy. The way he takes care of Adelaide and pursues her is worthy of a dreamy sigh!
I am not going to tell you too much of the story because you really need to read if for yourself but know that Ashton does an amazing job with this book. For a moment towards the end I didn't know what was going to happen and it took everything in me not to turn to the back of the book to find out right away. She also does an amazing job at putting God in the forefront of the story. The thread of faith and sacrifice within these characters is very evident. It was also great to see Adelaide's parents in this story who were the main characters of the first book.
Overall I thought the book was great and I can't wait to see what Ashton writes next! Whatever it is I am sure it will be excellent! I definitely recommend both of her books to you.
My Rating: 4 Stars/Really Liked it!
I received this book from the author for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Ashton has loved books for as long as she can remember, and at age fourteen, that love became a passion when she began writing her first novel. She currently resides in Conroe, TX, with her hubby and spoiled-rotten furbabies. When not writing, Ashton can be found reading, spending time with family, or serving at the church she grew up in. Her greatest desire as a writer is to point readers to the ultimate Author—Jesus.
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About the Book
Book: If Mama Ain't Happy
Author: Rachel Norman
Genre: Christian Non-Fiction
Publisher: Tyndale
Release Date: October 11, 2022
Are you weary? Stressed? Depressed, anxious, and annoyed? And, to top it all off, do you feel guilty for feeling bad? Rachel Norman gets you, mama. She knows how much you love your kids. And how, day after day, you put your family's needs first, which means your own needs come last. Or don't come at all.
Rachel used to be a mom who spent her days weary, anxious, and guilt laden. She had five kids in five years, lived on three different continents, and then was blindsided by a devastating health diagnosis. Neglecting her own physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional needs for so long--in an effort to be a selfless mother--had left her utterly depleted. And physically unwell. Then she began asking a question she'd never considered before: Could it be that taking good care of myself is not actually selfish, but maybe, just maybe, something a responsible adult does? In this countercultural book, Rachel takes some weight off your shoulders by
offering hands-on, rubber-meets-the-road strategies to cultivate a life you aren't trying to constantly escape
teaching you to discover and claim your own limits and boundaries so you can be a calm, resilient, peaceful mother
showing you how to shape your daily life and values around the few things that really matter, and how to let the rest go
If mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy. But when mama is at peace? Everyone benefits.
Rachel used to be a mom who spent her days weary, anxious, and guilt laden. She had five kids in five years, lived on three different continents, and then was blindsided by a devastating health diagnosis. Neglecting her own physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional needs for so long--in an effort to be a selfless mother--had left her utterly depleted. And physically unwell. Then she began asking a question she'd never considered before: Could it be that taking good care of myself is not actually selfish, but maybe, just maybe, something a responsible adult does? In this countercultural book, Rachel takes some weight off your shoulders by
offering hands-on, rubber-meets-the-road strategies to cultivate a life you aren't trying to constantly escape
teaching you to discover and claim your own limits and boundaries so you can be a calm, resilient, peaceful mother
showing you how to shape your daily life and values around the few things that really matter, and how to let the rest go
If mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy. But when mama is at peace? Everyone benefits.
My Thoughts
You know that old saying “If Mama Ain’t nobody’s happy…” Well author Rachel Norman has written this book If Mama Ain’t Happy to remind all mamas out there that setting boundaries for yourself is good for your whole family!
You know I’m not a huge non-fiction reader but I thought this was pretty interesting read. The author does a great job at giving you some ideas on how to take care of yourself and taking time for you is equally important as being the “mama and wife” in your household. There are parts on the chapters for you to pause and reflect with questions that will dig deep on how you should balance life within your family.
This is a great book for overwhelmed mamas that just don’t know how to let go of some things and let others help out within your immediate family. To take some time for you for being you
You know I’m not a huge non-fiction reader but I thought this was pretty interesting read. The author does a great job at giving you some ideas on how to take care of yourself and taking time for you is equally important as being the “mama and wife” in your household. There are parts on the chapters for you to pause and reflect with questions that will dig deep on how you should balance life within your family.
This is a great book for overwhelmed mamas that just don’t know how to let go of some things and let others help out within your immediate family. To take some time for you for being you
About the Author
Rachel Norman is a mother, Language of Listening® parent coach, and certified baby and toddler sleep consultant. She is the founder of A Mother Far From Home - an online community dedicated to helping young mothers create peaceful and enjoyable lives for their families - reaching more than two million readers each year. Rachel resides in DeFuniak Springs, Florida with her husband and their five children.
About the Book
Author: Jane Kirkpatrick
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: September 6, 2022
Mollie Sheehan has spent much of her life striving to be a dutiful daughter and honor her father's wishes, even when doing so has led to one heartbreak after another. After all, what options does she truly have in 1860s Montana? But providing for her stepfamily during her father's long absences doesn't keep her from wishing for more.
When romance blooms between her and Peter Ronan, Mollie finally allows herself to hope for a brighter future--until her father voices his disapproval of the match and moves her to California to ensure the breakup. Still, time and providence are at work, even when circumstances are at their bleakest. Mollie may soon find that someone far greater than her father is in control of the course of her life--and that even the command to "honor thy father" has its limits.
New from New York Times bestselling author Jane Kirkpatrick, Beneath the Bending Skies is a sweeping story of hospitality, destiny, and the bonds of family.
When romance blooms between her and Peter Ronan, Mollie finally allows herself to hope for a brighter future--until her father voices his disapproval of the match and moves her to California to ensure the breakup. Still, time and providence are at work, even when circumstances are at their bleakest. Mollie may soon find that someone far greater than her father is in control of the course of her life--and that even the command to "honor thy father" has its limits.
New from New York Times bestselling author Jane Kirkpatrick, Beneath the Bending Skies is a sweeping story of hospitality, destiny, and the bonds of family.
My Thoughts
Okay this definitely was not what I was expecting from this book. I have a hard time reading books that read like a diary as they lose my interest and this was how this book was. It took me way too long to get into it and I can't say I was fully immersed into it. The topic was a bit way too heavy for me and it felt like it didn't quite flow at times. That being said I have heard wonderful things about this author and her writing and in that aspect she did not disappoint. You can tell that she did her research and this being a true story she definitely kept to the time period and was very detailed in aspects of her story.
This story may have possible triggers for those that may have been in parental controlling households. Mollie is a like able character but your heart definitely goes out to her situation. Thank goodness for Peter who brought something different to the story and Mollie's life.
Overall this story was not for me, however if you enjoy American history and the first person narrative then this story is for you and I am sure you will enjoy it immensely.
My Rating: 3 Stars
I received a copy of this book through the publisher Revell. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
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Welcome to the Takeover Blitz for A Quilt for Christmas by Melody Carlson, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: A Quilt for Christmas: A Christmas Novella
Author: Melody Carlson
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: September 6, 2022
Genre: Christian Romance
Recently widowed Vera Swanson is having a hard time getting in the Christmas spirit in her new town. When asked to make a quilt for an ailing neighbor, she pulls together a diverse circle of quilters, including freespirited Tasha Ellison. The group becomes stitched together through shared stories, trust, and a little romantic weaving.
Christmas should be celebrated with family. But for Vera Swanson, that's not an option this year. Widowed and recently relocated, she is lonely in her condo-for-one--until little Fiona Albright knocks on her door needing help. With her mother seriously ill and her father out of town, Fiona enlists Vera's help, and when she finds out her new neighbor is a quilter, she has a special request--a Christmas quilt for Mama.
Vera will have to get a ragtag group of women together in order to fulfill the request. Between free-spirited artist Tasha, chatty empty nester Beverly, retired therapist Eleanor, and herself, Vera has hopes that Christmas for the Albright family will be merry, after all--and she may find herself a new family of friends along the way.
Bestselling and award-winning author Melody Carlson invites you to cuddle up this holiday season with this cozy story of giving, forgiving, and a little bit of romance.
PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Christianbook | BookBub
Excerpt
So Vera would be alone for Christmas—not that she planned to acknowledge the holiday. Whowas there to celebrate with anyway? After five months in Fairview, she hadn’t made a single friend.She’d heard that as one got older it grew more difficult to make new friends. Perhaps her loneliness was proof of that.
A loud knocking at her door brought Vera’s little pity party to a halt. Hurrying to see who waspounding so urgently—since no one ever called on her here—she suddenly remembered she was still in her pajamas and robe. She cracked open the door with a cautious hello? but could see no one.
“Please, please, can you help me?” a small voice pleaded from down below.
Vera blinked at the small child who stood on her doorstep. With two messy blond pigtails, barefeet, and widened blue eyes, the little girl looked somewhat lost and confused. And like Vera, the child was dressed in sleepwear, except hers was a thin, summery nightgown that looked none too warm.
“Wh-what?” Vera fumbled to unlatch the chain and fully open the door. “Who are you?”
“I’m Fiona,” the girl reached for Vera’s hand and, grasping it tightly, tugged. “We live right there.”
She pointed to the opened door across the hallway. “Mama is sick. Please help me!”
“Oh my!” Leaving her own door wide open, Vera let the child lead her across the hall and intothe condo.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a print copy of A Quilt for Christmas, a $10 Starbucks gift card, and quilted coasters!
Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight October 12, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on October 19, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
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About the Book
Book: The Bride of Blackfriars Lane
Author: Michelle Griep
Genre: Christian/Romance/Historical
Release date: September, 2022
Author: Michelle Griep
Genre: Christian/Romance/Historical
Release date: September, 2022
Detective Jackson Forge can hardly wait to marry the street-sly swindler who’s turned his life upside down. Kit Turner is equally excited to wed the handsome detective, and what better way to show her love than providing him with a gift any man of the law would love? She determines to bring to justice the men who years ago hurt his brother—despite Jackson’s warning to leave the past in the past. As she digs into the mystery of what happened, she unwittingly tumbles into her own history and endangers her future happiness with Jackson.
Click here to get your copy!
My Thoughts
What a great book this was! I have not read the first one but other than learning the backstory of the characters you will be able to follow this one pretty well. That being said I am going to read the first one which is waiting for me on my TBR shelf! This story was full of action from beginning to end and definitely kept you turning the pages.
The characters were great. Kit is spunky, resourceful and extremely stubborn while Jackson is her true balance being steady, devoted but equally as stubborn which is cause for some very fun times throughout the story. I did chuckle out loud once or twice.
There are definitely some twists and turns I was not expecting which always makes for a great read. The thread of faith is strong as the characters learn not only about each other but truly relying on God for everything.
Overall I enjoyed this read and I definitely recommend it!
My Rating: 4 Stars/ Really Liked it
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Michelle Griep’s been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. She is the Christy Award-winning author of historical romances: A Tale of Two Hearts, The Captured Bride, The Innkeeper’s Daughter, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, The Captive Heart, Brentwood’s Ward, A Heart Deceived, and Gallimore, but also leaped the historical fence into the realm of contemporary with the zany romantic mystery Out of the Frying Pan. If you’d like to keep up with her escapades, find her at www.michellegriep.com or stalk her on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
And guess what? She loves to hear from readers! Feel free to drop her a note at michellegriep@gmail.com.
More from Michelle
A Visit to Borough Market
Whenever I skip across the pond, I make it a point to stop at the Borough Market for some great meals. This area was—and is—a popular place to shop and an absolute must-see for food lovers. From grocers, fishmongers, cheese sellers, and butchers to all kinds of ethnic eats, it’s hard not to want to sample everything.
Believe it or not, Borough market has been in operation for the past thousand years. Yes, you read that correctly. It actually began as a bridge, constructed in 990. But let’s fast forward to the Victorian era, shall we?
In the nineteenth century, a railway viaduct was constructed through the middle of the market, which brought in more people—but also brought in more noise, soot, disruption, and crime. In such a hotbed of activity, it’s easy to imagine cutpurses and pickpockets of all sorts.
And that’s the perfect scene for a certain con-artist turned investigator to meet with an informant. In The Bride of Blackfriars Lane, Kit Turner is up to her old shenanigans, much to Jackson’s chagrin. You can visit Borough Market along with her in this wild ride through Victorian London. It’s just one of the many stops in a city that never gets old.
Blog Stops
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 27
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 27
Life of Literature, September 27
All-of-a-kind Mom, September 27
Texas Book-aholic, September 28
Book Looks by Lisa, September 28
Bigreadersite, September 28
Betti Mace, September 29
Genesis 5020, September 29
Remembrancy, September 29
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 30
Christina’s Corner, September 30
A Baker’s Perspective, September 30
She Lives to Read, October 1
Inklings and notions, October 1
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 1
For Him and My Family, October 2
Blogging With Carol, October 2
Daysong Reflections, October 2
Hallie Reads, October 2
Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, October 3 (Author Interview)
Where Faith and Books Meet, October 3
deb’s Book Review, October 3
Locks, Hooks and Books, October 4
Jeanette’s Thoughts, October 4
Holly’s Book Corner, October 4
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 5
Bizwings Blog, October 5
Back Porch Reads, October 5
Connie’s History Classroom, October 6
Books I’ve Read, October 6
Blossoms and Blessings, October 6
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 7
Splashes of Joy, October 7
Simple Harvest Reads, October 7 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)
The Write Escape, October 8
Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 8
Vicky Sluiter, October 8
Through the Fire Blogs, October 8
Pause for Tales, October 9
Cover Lover Book Review, October 9
Labor Not in Vain, October 9
Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, October 10
Melissa’s Bookshelf, October 10
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 10
A Good Book and Cup of Tea, October 10
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Michelle is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon e-gift card and a copy of The Bride of Blackfriars Lane!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/21aab/the-bride-of-blackfriars-lane-celebration-tour-giveaway
About the Book
Book: A Gem of Truth
Author: Kimberley Woodhouse
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Series: Secrets of the Canyon, Book 2
Release Date: September 20, 2022
Julia Schultz has a reputation for being a storyteller--or as others see it, a liar. But with a dark and painful past, stories were all that kept her company and made her interesting to others. Longing for a fresh start and a second chance to earn real trust, Julia takes a job as a Harvey Girl at the El Tovar hotel, where she's challenged to be her true self.
Learning the trade of a master jeweler is hard work, but Christopher Miller takes pride in running his family's small shop and earning the respect of the people around him. But when he discovers that he has six weeks to buy his shop from his landlord before it is sold, he must find a way to save his grandfather's legacy.
United by the discovery of a legendary treasure, Chris and Julia find hope in each other. But when Julia's past catches up with her, doubt creeps into Chris's heart. Can he really trust her and her stories?
Learning the trade of a master jeweler is hard work, but Christopher Miller takes pride in running his family's small shop and earning the respect of the people around him. But when he discovers that he has six weeks to buy his shop from his landlord before it is sold, he must find a way to save his grandfather's legacy.
United by the discovery of a legendary treasure, Chris and Julia find hope in each other. But when Julia's past catches up with her, doubt creeps into Chris's heart. Can he really trust her and her stories?
My Thoughts
I love stories that mention the Harvey Girls and Harvey Hotels that period of history sounds so intriguing. This was such a good story filled with secrets, adventure and suspense. Kimberley Woodhouse does a great job in the setting of this story. She makes you feel like you are at El Tovar and at the Grand Canyon. You can also tell that she has done extensive research and you read all the little details that brings the story to life as you read. Her detail to jewelry making was fascinating.
The characters were believable and relatable. You can feel the struggle that Julia has within herself. Chris is the master jeweler is such a fantastic leading male character. He has this huge heart and pride for his family's business that he will do anything to make sure that legacy does not die. Of course there is romance between Julia and Chris and it was a perfect match. He helps her see what love is.
There is a good thread of faith throughout this story. God loves us despite any circumstances and He pursues us to follow and love him unconditionally. It was a great reminder for us readers. I love when christian fiction books gives us these reminders.
Overall I really enjoyed the book. This is part of a series and I do recommend you reading the first one just so you know some of the characters that pop up in this one plus you will get to know the location a bit more if you read them in order! I can't wait for the next book.
My Rating: 4 Stars/ Really enjoyed it
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Kimberley Woodhouse is an award-winning and bestselling author of more than twenty-five books. A lover of history and research, she often gets sucked into the past and then her husband has to lure her out with chocolate and the promise of eighteen holes on the golf course. She loves music, kayaking, and her family. Her books have been awarded the Carol Award, Holt Medallion, Reader's Choice Award, Selah Award, Spur Award, and others. A popular speaker/teacher, she's shared with over 1,000,000 people at more than twenty-five hundred venues across the country. Married to the love of her life for three decades, she lives and writes in the Poconos where she's traded in her hat of "craziest mom" for "coolest grandma." Connect with Kim at: www.kimberleywoodhouse.com
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