A Heart Adrift by Laura Frantz

A Virginia chocolatier and a privateering sea captain collide once more after a failed love affair a decade before. Will a war and a cache of regrets keep them apart? Or will a new shared vision reunite them?

 

It is 1755, and the threat of war with France looms over colonial York, Virginia. Chocolatier Esmee Shaw is fighting her own battle of the heart. Having reached her twenty-eighth birthday, she is reconciled to life alone after a decade-old failed love affair from which she's never quite recovered. But she longs to find something worthwhile to do with her life.

Captain Henri Lennox has returned to port after a lengthy absence, intent on completing the lighthouse in the dangerous Chesapeake Bay, a dream he once shared with Esmee. But when the colonial government asks him to lead a secret naval expedition against the French, his future is plunged into uncertainty.

Will a war and a cache of regrets keep them apart, or can their shared vision and dedication to the colonial cause heal the wounds of the past? Bestselling and award-winning author Laura Frantz whisks you away to a time fraught with peril--on the sea and in the heart--in this redemptive, romantic story.

Publisher: Revell, 2022

Genre: Historical Romance

Setting: York, Virginia, 1755

Series: standalone novel

My Review

What a swoon-worthy romance! Esmee and Henri are the perfect pairing. I loved the slow-burn romance as well as their character growth. The turbulent times in this pre-Revolution era kept me turning the pages. I've visited Williamsburg, VA before so it was so fun picturing all of those places in my mind as the story went along. The supporting characters were a great addition to the story, and though some parts were tragic, I'm glad the plot was portrayed realistically for the time period and not wrapped up perfectly in a pretty bow. The only downside to this book is that it made me crave chocolate the entire time. That being said, where it's a perfect historical romance for any time of the year, it's especially so as we near Valentine's Day. Just make sure to have your faves on hand as you read. 

Come Back to Me by Jody Hedlund

The ultimate cure that could heal any disease? Crazy.

That's exactly what research scientist Marian Creighton has always believed about her father's quest, even if it does stem from a desire to save her sister Ellen from the genetic disease that stole their mother from them. But when her father falls into a coma after drinking a vial of holy water believed to contain traces of residue from the Tree of Life, Marian must question all of her assumptions. He's left behind tantalizing clues that suggest he's crossed back in time. Insane. Until Marian tests his theories and finds herself in the Middle Ages during a dangerous peasant uprising.

William Durham, a valiant knight comes to Marian's rescue and offers her protection . . . as his wife. The longer Marian stays in the past, the more she cares about William. Can she ever find her father and make it back to the present to heal her sister? And when the time comes to leave, will she want to?

Bestselling author Jody Hedlund is your guide down the twisting waters of time to a volatile era of superstition, revolts, and chivalry in this suspenseful story. 

Publisher: Revell, 2021

Genre: Time travel fiction, romance

Series: Waters of Time, book one

Setting: present day and England 1381

My Review

First off, I have to say that time travel books and movies are not my thing (even though I LOVE historical novels). I think it's hard to take a character from present day with all the technology and medical advancements, drop them into a historical world that's entirely different from what they're used to, and make their existence in that new world work. That being said, for some reason, I've read two time travel novels this year. The first one I did not enjoy at all (poorly written and bland), so I was hesitant to pick up Come Back to Me because I was afraid I would be disappointed. However, I'm a HUGE fan of Jody Hedlund, and I know her writing is stellar, so I gave it a try. 

I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED! I was engrossed from the first page and read the book in three days. I had a hard time putting it down. As always, Jody's writing was phenomenal, her characters were complex and delicious, the science and fantasy-science within the plot were easy to follow, and the romance was sizzling. 

This book was a pure, pull-me-out-of-the-stress-of-life-and-entertain-me kind of book. Different, but fun. I am eagerly awaiting the second book in the series, as Jody set the upcoming main characters up so well as secondary characters in Come Back to Me. 

I would recommend this book to anyone who loves to escape into a good story. 
 

Hadley Beckett's Next Dish by Bethany Turner

GET READY FOR A HEAPING HELPING OF HUMOR, 

ROMANCE, AND SECOND CHANCES

Celebrity chef Maxwell Cavanaugh is known for many things: his multiple Michelin stars, his top-rated Culinary Channel show To the Max, and most of all his horrible temper. Hadley Beckett, host of the Culinary Channel's other top-rated show, At Home with Hadley, is beloved for her Southern charm and for making her viewers feel like family.

When Max experiences a very public temper tantrum, he's sent packing to get his life in order. When he returns, career in shambles, his only chance to get back on TV and in the public's good graces is to work alongside Hadley.

As these polar-opposite celeb chefs begin to peel away the layers of public persona and reputation, they will not only discover the key ingredients for getting along, but also learn the secret recipe for unexpected forgiveness . . . and maybe even love. In the meantime, hide the knives.

Fan-favorite Bethany Turner serves up a heaping helping of humor and romance with this thoroughly modern story centered on cooking, enemies, and second chances.

Publisher: Revell, 2020

Genre: contemporary romance; romantic comedy

Setting: Nashville, TN

Series: standalone novel

My Review

I was so excited for the opportunity to read this book. I love the premise. I love the cover art. I love romantic comedies. Bethany Turner was a new-to-me author and I found her writing witty, refreshing, and entertaining. The plot took twists and turns that kept the pages turning, the reality TV angle was unique, and Hadley was so down-to-earth and lovable I would watch her on TV if she were a real-life chef with her own show. However, the story fell short for me with the hero. I didn't love his character or even start rooting for him until almost 3/4 of the way through the story. I enjoyed his character growth at the end, but his behavior during the first half of the book was so despicable I couldn't understand why Hadley was attracted to him at all. I think some redeeming qualities thrown in with his flaws would've balanced him enough for me to like him from the beginning. 


I will read more of Bethany Turner's books, as her writing style and unique premises intrigue me. I gave this book three stars. This review is my honest opinion.

Praying God's Promises by Linda Evans Shepherd

The Scriptures tell us that when we pray the will of God, he delights to answer our prayers. But what is God's will in any given situation? How can we know it? And if we don't know it, how can we pray it?

Linda Evans Shepherd shows readers that God's will is not a mystery--it's clearly laid out in his Word through his many promises. Through stories, practical application, examples of prayers, and guided reflection, Shepherd leads readers toward a more powerful prayer life. Arranged by topic for ease of use, this book shows how to pray God's promises

- of his presence
- of love
- of peace
- of joy
- of hope
- for provision
- for health
- for breakthroughs
- for our relationships
- over children and loved ones

Shepherd includes a chapter on God's powerful answers to prayer that will inspire readers to search the Scriptures, pray God's will, and wait expectantly for his promised answers.

My Review

Prayer is such an important part of the Christian life, and I’m always looking for books and lessons on how to strengthen my prayer life. Therefore, I jumped at the chance to read and review Praying God’s Promises by Linda Evans Shepherd. My feelings about this book are mixed, however, and completely my own opinion. 

I love the way the book is set up: short, punchy chapters that each have a different theme and the truth within the verses listed. But I had a very hard time following along with my Bible, as I like to do with these kind of books. This author uses so many different versions of the Bible (to keep the book non-denominational, I’m sure) that it got confusing at times. Some references didn’t even match up with my Bible (I use KJV), or the verse used in the book has a different meaning than my version. 

This review isn’t based on my belief over which version of the Bible should be used but is based on how user-friendly and informational it is (or lack thereof). 

The book points people to the promises of God and that can never be a bad thing. But for me, the book didn’t meet my devotional criteria (which is entirely my own preference and opinion). 

I give it three stars.

Where Two Hearts Meet by Liz Johnson

In her kitchen at the Red Door Inn, executive chef Caden Holt is calm, collected, and competent. But when her boss asks her to show off their beautiful island to impress a visiting travel writer and save the inn, Caden is forced to face a world much bigger than her kitchen--and a man who makes her wish she was beautiful. 
Journalist Adam Jacobs is on a forced sabbatical on Prince Edward Island. He's also on assignment to uncover a story. Instead he's falling in love with the island's red shores and Caden's sweets. 
When Caden discovers Adam isn't who she thought he was, she realizes that the article he's writing could do more than ruin the inn's chances for survival--it might also break her heart. 
Readers will discover hope for the hurting, joy for the broken, and romance for the lonely at the enchanting Red Door Inn.


Publisher: Revell, 2016
Genre: Contemporary Romance


My Review
Where Two Hearts Meet is book two of Johnson's Prince Edward Island Dreams series. This standalone romance also features the continuation of Seth and Marie's story from book one. I enjoyed seeing these characters again, as well as meeting new ones.

Caden Holt loves to cook. She's finally stepped out from under her dad's bakery to make a career of her own as Rose's Red Door Inn's chef and a culinary teacher to local teenagers. But the financial status of the inn, the return of her arch nemesis, and the presence of a handsome reporter threaten everything she's worked for.

Adam Jacobs is on a forced leave of absence from his journalist job to recoup and break through his writer's block. A recent tragedy has knocked his world off axis and he's hoping the beauty and seclusion of the island will help him find his way again. However, the inn's cute cook, her scrumptious food, and a misunderstanding have him more distracted, and confused, than ever. But nothing is more challenging than Taco Bed...

Full of heart and lessons learned, Where Two Hearts Meet is a winner.

Wild Montana Skies by Susan May Warren

Bestselling Author's New Series Delivers Romance and Adventure as an SAR Team Searches for Others--and Finds Themselves 

Search and rescue pilot Kacey Fairing is home on leave in Mercy Falls, Montana, twelve years after she joined the military to escape the mistakes of her past. With a job waiting for her as the new lead pilot of Peak Rescue in Glacier National Park, Kacey hopes to reconnect with the now-teenage daughter she sees only between deployments. What she doesn't realize is that someone else is also back in town. 

Ben King has been building his country music career since the day Kacey shut him out of her life. Now all of that's on hold when his injured father calls him home to help run Peak Rescue until he's fully recovered. It doesn't take long, though, to discover his father's ulterior motives as Kacey Fairing walks into the house and back into his heart. 
With Mercy Falls in a state of emergency due to flash floods, Kacey and Ben are forced to work together to save lives. But when floodwaters turn personal, can they put aside the past to save their future?



Publisher: Revell, 2016
Genre: Contemporary Romance


My Review
Wild Montana Skies is the first book in Warren's Montana Rescue series. True to Susan May Warren fashion, this book held me captive from the first page. Kacey Faring is strong, independent, and full of regrets. After an absence from the military, she's back home and ready to start anew. Ben King is famous, available, and still has feelings for Kacey after all these years. Working together brings them closer together but the secrets they hold may just tear them apart for good.

A solidly written romance full of emotion and heart.

Anchor In The Storm by Sarah Sundin

For plucky Lillian Avery, America's entry into World War II means a chance to prove herself as a pharmacist in Boston. The challenges of her new job energize her. But society boy Ensign Archer Vandenberg's attentions only annoy--even if he "is" her brother's best friend. 
During the darkest days of the war, Arch's destroyer hunts German U-boats in vain as the submarines sink dozens of merchant ships along the East Coast. Still shaken by battles at sea, Arch notices his men also struggle with their nerves--and with drowsiness. Could there be a link to the large prescriptions for sedatives Lillian has filled? The two work together to answer that question, but can Arch ever earn Lillian's trust and affection? 
Sarah Sundin brings World War II to life, offering readers an intense experience they won't soon forget.


Publisher: Revell, 2016
Author: Sarah Sundin
Genre: historical romance


My Review
Anchor In The Storm is book two in the Waves of Freedom series. I highly enjoyed Through Waters Deep (see review here) and feel Anchor In The Storm to be the perfect accompaniment.

Lillian Avery defies her odds. She's a female pharmacist, an occupation rarely held by a woman, she refuses to let her prosthetic leg hinder her from living, and she refuses to be duped by any man's false affections. But when her brother brings home his Navy friend Ensign Archer Vandenberg for the holidays, his attraction to Lillian raises the stakes.

Can Lillian conquer her new life in Boston as a pharmacist for her crabby boss, fend off her growing feelings to Arch, and solve the mystery of the forged prescriptions?

With an unexpected twist at the end and a delightful mix of mystery and romance throughout, I give this book 5 stars!

Where She Belongs by Johnnie Alexander

Can Love Redeem

A Broken Past?

Shelby Kincaid is ready to move on from her grief. With high hopes for the future, she longs to purchase her family's ancestral homestead so she can raise her young daughters in the only place she ever truly belonged. She plans to transform the abandoned house into the perfect home of her memories. But she'll have her work cut out for her.

AJ Sullivan never wanted the homestead. Inherited as a punishment from his grandfather, it has sat empty for fifteen years and fallen into ruin. He's glad to finally unload it. But a clean break isn't possible when he can't get the young widow Shelby off his mind.

Welcome to Misty Willow, a place that will have as great a hold over the reader as it does over its inhabitants. With writing that evokes a strong sense of place and personal history, Johnnie Alexander deftly explores the ties that bind us to home--and the irresistible forces that draw us to each other.

Publisher: Revell, 2016

Cover Design: Studio Gearbox

Cover Collage: Shutterstock

Author Photo: Jodie Westfall Photography

My Review

A beautiful novel that explores the meaning of home and the people we share it with.

Widow Shelby Kincaid returns to the family farm established by her ancestors to raise her two daughters in a place that holds so many wonderful memories for her. Upon her arrival, she meets AJ Sullivan, the man who inherited Misty Willow, who has finally agreed to a rent-to-own contract. Their families have been rivals for years, and Shelby can't wait to have the farm back in her family's possession. But as time passes, Shelby realizes AJ isn't like the rest of the Sullivan's and despite her attempts to shut him out, he slowly works his way into her heart. 

Full of twists, emotion, and lovable characters, I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys contemporary romance, family sagas, and those who believe in the meaning of home. I give this book 4 stars!

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Johnnie Alexander is the award-winning author of Where Treasure Hides. Johnnie is an accomplished essayist and poet whose work has appeared in the Guideposts anthology A Cup of Christmas Cheer. In addition to writing, she enjoys reading, spending time with her grandchildren, and taking road trips. She lives near Memphis, Tennessee. Learn more at www.johnnie-alexander.com.

Proverbs Prayers by John Mason

Experience the wisdom of God in your life.

The book of Proverbs is a wellspring of wisdom, offering practical guidance for life and the tools to make good choices, withstand pressure, prioritize relationships, and avoid unnecessary trouble. 

Now bestselling author John Mason helps you make that wisdom a part of your inner life. For thirty-one days, he takes you through each chapter of Proverbs, unpacking the wisdom within and providing a heartfelt prayer based on the insights from that chapter. As you read and pray, you’ll discover the principles found in this wisdom-packed book coming alive in your life in ways you may never have imagined.

Publisher: Revell, 2015

Author: John Mason

Cover Design: Paula Gibson

My Review

The book of Proverbs holds an astounding amount of wisdom for all areas of life. To couple that wisdom with the power of prayer is amazing. I highly enjoyed this book. I used it as an accompaniment to my King James Bible, reading the passage twice and then reciting the provided prayer. I recommend this book to anyone who's looking for a deeper study of the book of Proverbs, is seriously seeking wisdom, and to those who enjoy daily devotionals. I give this book 5 stars!

__________________________________________________________

John Mason is a national best-selling author, noted speaker and executive author

coach. He is the founder and president of Insight International and Insight
Publishing Group.
He has authored fifteen books including An Enemy Called Average, You’re Born An
Original-Don’t Die A Copy, and Know Your Limits—Then Ignore Them which have
sold over 1.5 million copies and are translated into thirty-five languages throughout
the world. These books are widely known as a source of sound wisdom, genuine
motivation, and practical principles. His writings have been published in Reader’s
Digest along with numerous other national publications. And four of his books have
reached the #1 spot on Amazon best-seller lists.
Known for his quick wit, powerful thoughts and insightful ideas, he is a popular
speaker across the U.S. and around the world.
John and his wife, Linda, have four children: Michelle, Greg, Michael and David.
They reside in Tulsa, Oklahoma

The Memory Weaver by Jane Kirkpatrick

Eliza Spalding Warren was just a child when she was taken hostage by the Cayuse Indians during a massacre in 1847. Now the young mother of two children, Eliza faces a different kind of dislocation; her impulsive husband wants them to make a new start in another territory, which will mean leaving her beloved home and her departed mother's grave--and returning to the land of her captivity. Eliza longs to know how her mother, an early missionary to the Nez Perce Indians, dealt with the challenges of life with a sometimes difficult husband and with her daughter's captivity.

When Eliza is finally given her mother's diary, she is stunned to find that her own memories are not necessarily the whole story of what happened. Can she lay the dark past to rest and move on? Or will her childhood memories always hold her hostage?


My Review
This author's prose dances along the page and transports the reader to Oregon Territory, pre-Civil War, where a coming-of-age Eliza Spalding is running her father's household and caring for her younger siblings in absence of their mother. She catches the eye of Andrew Warren, a young man working to build his own cattle spread. Tired of her smothering lifestyle, Eliza sneaks away with Andrew and elopes. But the marriage ahead is not exactly what Eliza had envisioned. 

I enjoyed seeing the budding romance blossom and fight for survival during times of hardship. This is real, and Eliza fought valiantly. I did find some parts of the mother's journal confusing and hard to follow, but the Cast of Characters and the Oregon map at the beginning were very helpful, as I don't often read historical fiction. 

I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction that's real and gritty. I give this book 3.5 stars!

___________________________________________________

Jane is inter-nationally recognized for her lively presentations and well-researched stories that encourage and inspire.  Her works have appeared in more than 50 publications including  Decision, Private Pilot and Daily Guideposts.  Jane is the author of over 25 books including historical novels. Many of her titles are based on the lives of real people or incidents set authentically in the American West.  Her first novel, A Sweetness to the Soul, won the coveted Wrangler Award from the Western Heritage Center.  Her works have been finalists for the Christy, Spur, Oregon Book Award, WILLA Literary Award and Reader’s Choice awards.  Several of her titles have been Book of the Month and Literary Guild selections. For more about Jane, visit her website at www.jkbooks.com.

Through Waters Deep by Sarah Sundin

War is coming.

Can love carry them through the rough waters that lie ahead?

It is 1941 and America teeters on the brink of war. Outgoing naval officer Ensign Jim Avery escorts British convoys across the North Atlantic in a brand-new destroyer, the USS Atwood. Back on shore, Boston Navy Yard secretary Mary Stirling does her work quietly and efficiently, happy to be out of the limelight. Yet, despite her reserved nature, she never could back down from a challenge. When evidence of sabotage on the Atwood is found, Jim and Mary must work together to uncover the culprit. A bewildering maze of suspects emerges, and Mary is dismayed to find that even someone close to her is under suspicion. With the increasing pressure, Jim and Mary find that many new challenges--and dangers--await them.


Publisher: Revell, 2015
Author: Sarah Sundin
Cover Photography and Illustration: Brandon Hill

My Review
I was hooked from the first page. With a gripping plot set amidst the enchanting and war-torn era of the 1940's, Through Waters Deep will stick with you long after the first page. 

Boston Navy Yard secretary Mary Stirling reunites with high school acquaintance Ensign Jim Avery during the USS Atwood's sabotaged christening. Together they embark on a journey of clues to find the saboteur. As they narrow down suspects, their friendship blossoms into something more. Will their feelings for one another survive the start of war? Or will they drown in deep waters?

I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries, romance stories, and/or historical fiction. 

I gave this book 5 stars! This is the first novel of Sarah's I've read, and I'll definitely be reading more!

_____________________________________________________

Sarah Sundin received the Writer of the Year at the Mount Hermon Christian Christian Writers 

Conference. A graduate of UC San Fransisco School of Pharmacy, she works on-call as a hospital pharmacist. During WWII, her grandfather served as a pharmacist's mate (medic) in the Navy and her great-uncle flew with the US Eighth Air Force in England. Sarah lives in California with her husband and three children. To learn more, visit her website at www.sarahsundin.com.

To Capture Her Heart by Rebecca DeMarino

In an uncertain time, she faces a choice that will change her life forever.

The Southold Chronicles

It is 1653 and Heather Flower, a princess of the Montauk tribe, is enjoying her wedding feast when her groom is killed and she is kidnapped by a rival tribe and held for ransom. Though her ransom is paid by an Englishman, she is nonetheless left to die in a Connecticut forest--until she finds herself rescued by handsome Dutch Lieutenant Dirk Van Buren. Torn between her affection for Dirk and her long friendship with family friend Benjamin Horton, Heather Flower must make a difficult choice--stay true to her friend or follow her heart.

Publisher: Revell, 2015

Cover Design and Photography: John Hamilton Design

Author is represented by WordServe Literary Group

My Review

Full of rich history and emotion, this story will surely capture your heart. 

Dutch Lieutenant Dirk Van Buren rescues Montaukett princess Heather Flower after being stolen from her tribe. Her best friend Benjamin Horton wants nothing more than protect Heather from future attacks, as well as from Lieutenant Van Buren. As the two men attempt to capture her affections, the reader will be eager to capture the unexpected twists. 

I did find this book a little hard to follow at the beginning because of the large cast of characters, but this story is well written, and I love how the author uses her own ancestry as inspiration for her novels. 

I give this book 3.5 stars!

___________________________________________________________________

When Rebecca DeMarino traveled to Horton Point, Long Island, with her mother, Helen Jean Horton

Worley, in 1999, passions collided: her love of faith, family, travel, history, and writing. Rebecca's debut novel, A PLACE IN HIS HEART, is a historical romance based on Mary and Barnabas Horton, Rebecca’s ninth great-grandparents. Set in 1600’s Southold, Long Island, book one of The Southold Chronicles will be released by Revell in June, 2014. She lives in the Pacific Northwest and when not writing, she enjoys family and genealogy, travel, reading, running, baking and gardening. Rebecca is represented by Greg Johnson of WordServe Literary Agency.

Laugh Out Loud Pocket Doodles for Boys by Rob Elliott

Rob Elliott's Laugh-Out-Loud joke books have brought laughter to more than half a million households. His last book invited kids into the action as he teamed up with cartoonist Jonny Hawkins to create "Laugh-Out-Loud Doodles for Kids." Now the dynamic duo is back with two brand-new books for boys and girls who love to draw and love to laugh! Packed with jokes that will keep boys and girls giggling for hours, and unfinished doodles for them to complete any way they want, these books keep little hands and minds busy. Perfect for road trips, lazy summer days, or anytime the kids say, "I'm bored!"

Publisher: Revell, 2015
Author: Rob Elliott
Illustrator: Jonny Hawkins


This review was so much fun, as I was able to get the kids involved. Good, clean entertainment, perfect for a rainy day or long road trips. My boys did many of the pages in the car while traveling to Disney World. Others, they finished when we got back home. This book is perfect for ages 5-12. Have a sharpened pencil and crayons handy, and be prepared to laugh!

My boys give this book four thumbs up!

(Five stars in the book review world) 

"My favorite part of this book was the jokes. I can tell them to my friends." -- Silas, age 11

"I like to draw." -- Hudson, age 5


As a mother, my favorite sound in the world is my kids' laughter. If they're laughing that means they're happy, and happy kids make a happy mama. I highly recommend this book. 

In Firefly Valley by Amanda Cabot

She's lost her dream job--

But has she found the man of her dreams?

Marisa St. George is devastated when she is a victim of downsizing and has no choice but to return to the small Texas town where she grew up. Though it's a giant step backward, she accepts a position as business manager at the struggling Rainbow's End resort. The only silver lining is Blake Kendall, a new guest who is making her believe in love at first sight. But will her dreams of happily-ever-after be turned upside down when she discovers who he really is?


Publisher: Revell Books, 2015
Cover Design: Peter Gloege | LOOK Design Studio
Cover Photo: Aimee Christenson


My Review

Like the first fireflies of summer, this story brings light to the darkness, brings promises of things to come, and is delightful while it lasts. 

Marisa St. George became successful despite her rough upbringing. So when her employer downsizes, forcing her to return to her hometown of Dupree, Texas, she accepts--a little begrudgingly--a position as business manager at Rainbow's End resort. Blake Kendall--AKA Ken Blake--has lost his creativity. With a deadlines looming, he grasps at straws, doing everything he can to regain his muse. When Blake discovers his friend, Greg, is getting married in Texas at Greg's newly owned resort, Blake heads to Dupree, hoping a change of scenery will renew his spirit. What he doesn't expect is the enchanting Marisa St. George. 

As Marissa's past returns to haunt her, will she forgive those who've wrong her and move on with her life? Can Blake keep his secrets from Marisa and continue his career? 

I recommend In Firefly Valley to anyone looking for a great summer read. I gave this book 4 stars. 

______________________________________________________

With both parents avid readers, it's no surprise that Amanda Cabot learned to read at an early age. From there it was only a small step to deciding to become a writer. Of course, deciding and becoming are two different things, as she soon discovered. Fortunately for the world, her first attempts at fiction were not published, but she did meet her goal of selling a novel by her thirtieth birthday. Since then she’s sold more than thirty novels under a variety of pseudonyms. When she’s not writing, Amanda enjoys sewing, cooking and – of course – reading.

Visit Amanda's website at https://www.sff.net/people/amanda.cabot/.

Every Bride Needs a Groom by Janice Thompson

Somewhere in a sea of tulle and taffeta, satin and crepe, 

Katie Fisher needs to find a key ingredient of the perfect wedding--the groom. 

Small-town girl Katie Fisher is planning her wedding. Sure, her boyfriend hasn't managed to pop the question just yet, but that doesn't mean she shouldn't enter a contest in "Texas Bride" magazine to win the dress of her dreams, right? But when her boyfriend breaks up with her and takes a job in another town--the very same day Katie wins her dream dress--her world is turned upside down. Should she claim her prize? And will the hunky former pro-basketball player who runs the swanky Dallas bridal shop--yeah, you read that right--catch on to her humiliation if she does?

Publisher: Revell, 2015

Cover Design: Studio Gearbox

Cover Photography and Photo: Julie Line/Big Event Studios

Author represented by MacGregor Literary Agency

My Review

Fun, light-hearted, witty. Thompson will take you on an unusual journey through Texas where family is #1, lost loves are found, and the Baptists and Presbyterians finally agree on something. 

Katie Fisher has been mentally planning her wedding for years. Though her boyfriend hasn't proposed yet, she's sure he will any day and enters the Texas Bride essay contest, winning a custom-made gown of her dreams. What she doesn't expect is her boyfriend to dump her for the big city. 

She arrives at the bridal shop for her consultation with the designer, prepared to forgo the gown when she meets the handsome Brady James--pro-basketball star on hiatus and the bridal shop's new manager.  As if his masculinity in a sea of white frills isn't awkward enough, Brady turns out to be the designer's son. How will Katie ever reveal her secret now?

I recommend this book to anyone who adores weddings and bridal shows, a light humorous read, or enjoys expecting the unexpected. 

I gave this book 4 stars! 

____________________________________________

Janice Thompson lives in Spring, Texas, where she leads a rich life with her family, a host of writing friends, and two mischevious dachshunds. She does her best to keep the Lord at the center of it all. You can find out more about Janice at www.janiceathompson.com or www.freelancewritingcourses.com. 

The Christmas Cat by Melody Carlson

He felt his face flushing as Cara opened the door. Wearing a garnet-colored knit dress and with her dark hair pinned up, she looked even prettier than he remembered. Suddenly he wished he'd thought to bring a hostess gift. Like a cat. 

After years abroad, Garrison Brown returns home to Vancouver to build a new life. When his beloved grandmother passes away a few weeks before Christmas, Garrison goes to her house to sort out her belongings, including six cats who need new homes. While Garrison hopes to dispense with the task quickly, his grandmother's instructions don't allow for speed. She has left Garrison with some challenging requirements for the future homes of her furry friends--plus a sizeable monetary gift for the new owners. Garrison's job is to match the cats with the right owners without disclosing the surprise gift. Along the way, he may just meet someone who can make him stay. 

Author: Melody Carlson

Publisher: Revell, 2014

Cover Jacket Design: Smartt Guys Design

My Review

As a cat lover, the cover art and title immediately caught my attention. The story begins with Garrison Brown receiving tragic news about his grandmother's death, followed by a strange request--to find homes for all six of her cats per a list of requirements she left behind. Garrison, despite his feline allergies and phobia, is determined to carry out his grandmother's last wishes and sets out to find her furry children the perfect families.

I enjoyed Garrison's adventure and how each cat had its own distinct personality. I recommend this book to anyone who's looking for a clean, light-hearted Christmas story and, of course, to cat lovers everywhere! I give this book 3.5 stars!

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Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books, including Christmas at

Harrington's, The Christmas Pony, and A Simple Christmas Wish. Melody recently received a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books. She and her husband live in central Oregon. For more information about Melody, visit her website at www.melodycarlson.com