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. 

Never Leave Me by Jody Hedlund

In the last stages of a genetic disease, Ellen Creighton has decided to live out her remaining days at the estate of her longtime friend Harrison Burlington. Harrison cares deeply for Ellen, but as a wheelchair-bound paraplegic, he's never allowed himself to get serious in a relationship. However, he's desperately trying to save her by finding the holy water that is believed to heal any disease.

When he locates two flasks, Ellen refuses to drink one of them because she believes the holy water killed her sister and father. In an effort to convince her to take it, Harrison ingests the contents first, and when Ellen witnesses the effects, she can no longer deny the power of the substance in the bottles. Dangerous criminals are also seeking the holy water, and Ellen soon learns they will go to any lengths to get the powerful drug--including sending her back into the past to find it for them.

Bestselling and award-winning author Jody Hedlund plunges you into the swiftly flowing river of history in a race against the clock in this breathtaking, emotional second Waters of Time story.

Publisher: Revell, 2022

Series: Water of Time, book 2

Genre: Time travel, romance

Setting: England

My Review

I started my 2021 reading challenge with a Jody Hedlund title, and I ended it with a Jody Hedlund title. Time-travel is not a genre I typically read but the premise of Come Back to Me sounded so fascinating I had to give it a try. I loved it. Never Leave Me instantly went to the top of my 2022 reading list. Thanks to Revell, I received my copy right before Christmas. It was great to revisit Chesterfield Park and all the characters. I was instantly drawn into the story by Ellen’s compromised health issues and Harrison’s tender care and love for her. There were parts regarding the romance in the first quarter of the book that made me question where the story was going but transitioned nicely into the rest of the story. If you’re looking for book that’s entertaining, will sweep you into another world, and be a great escape this series is one to read. I’m hoping the author is planning a third book for this series but Never Leave Me ended with everything tied up nicely so if not, the series feels complete and satisfying. Though each book can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading them in order to better understand the complex plot and fine details.
 

God Is My Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom

 

"If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. But if you look at Christ, you'll be at rest."--Corrie ten Boom

Dutch watchmaker Corrie ten Boom, with her courageous, God-fearing family, sheltered Jews from the Nazis during World War II. This led to her arrest and suffering in prison and concentration camps--told in her bestselling book The Hiding Place (and feature-length film of the same name. Her dramatic life story and her more than 40 other books have prepared millions of readers to face their own futures with courage--relying on God's love to forgive, overcome, heal, and restore.

Now, for admirers of Corrie ten Boom as well as a new generation of readers, this 40-day devotional based on Corrie's writings will strengthen your faith, re-root your soul in Christ, and increase your experience of God's peace. Receive the courage and comfort of the Holy Spirit, and remind yourself of what Corrie ten Boom knew and lived: God is your hiding place.

Publisher: Chosen Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group

Genre: Christian Living/Devotional

My Review

This devotional based on journal entries of Corrie Ten Boom was such a blessing, encouragement, and thought-provoking read each day. Her words, her journey, her faith has challenged me to consider my own faith walk and strive to strengthen my walk with Christ. Each entry begins with a Bible verse followed by a journal entry that relates to the verse. I do wish that the verses used were not from the NLT Bible as it wasn't in existence until 1996, long after Corrie's original writings were published, however, it didn't discourage me from using the devotions. 

The Heart's Charge by Karen Witemeyer

FOR YEARS THEY'VE BEEN NOMADS FOR JUSTICE,

BUT A FINAL MISSION MAY JUST LEAD THEIR HEARTS HOME. 

Members of the legendary Hanger's Horsemen, Mark Wallace and Jonah Brooks arrive in Llano County, Texas, to deliver a steed, never expecting they'd help deliver a baby as well. Left with an infant to care for, they head to a nearby foundling home, where Mark encounters the woman he nearly married a decade ago.

After failing at love, Katherine Palmer has dedicated her life to caring for children, teaming up with Eliza Southerland to start Harmony House. Eliza understands the pain of not fitting society's mold, being illegitimate and of mixed ancestry. Yet those are the very attributes that lead her to minister to outcast children. The taciturn Jonah intrigues her by defying all her stereotypes of men, but there are secrets behind his eyes—ghosts from wars past and others still being waged.

When the Horsemen hear rumors of missing children, they stay to investigate, sticking close to Harmony House and its beautiful owners. As they work together to uncover the truth, love and danger grow hand in hand until a final sinister scheme threatens to destroy them all.

Publisher: Bethany House, 2021

Genre: historical romance

Setting: Llano County, Texas, 1894

Series: Hanger's Horsemen, book 2

My Review

Ms. Witemeyer has done it again! The Heart's Charge is a delightful addition to the Hanger's Horsemen series. The sweet, slow-burn romance between Mark and Katherine sets the story, while a love interest for Jonah keeps readers guessing what will happen for him. The mysterious and danger-filled plot keeps the pages turning. This story is full of sweetness and love, rugged men and pure entertainment. I'm eagerly awaiting book three in the series. 

*sidenote* While this is a standalone novel, I suggest reading book one first, as it gives rich details of the backstory that follows through the entire series. 

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. 
 

A Cowboy for Keeps by Jody Hedlund

 

Greta Nilsson's trip west to save her ailing little sister, Astrid, could not have gone more wrong. First, bandits hold up her stagecoach, stealing all her money. Then, upon arriving in Fairplay, Colorado, she learns the man she was betrothed to as a mail-order bride has died. Homeless, penniless, and jobless, Greta and her sister are worse off than when they started.

Wyatt McQuaid is struggling to get his new ranch up and running and is in town to purchase cattle when the mayor proposes the most unlikely of bargains. He'll invest in a herd of cattle for Wyatt's ranch if Wyatt agrees to help the town become more respectable by marrying and starting a family. And the mayor, who has promised to try to help Greta, has just the candidate in mind for Wyatt to marry.

Publisher: Bethany House, 2021

Genre: historical romance

Setting: Colorado Territory, 1862

Series: Colorado Cowboys, book 1

My Review

I thoroughly enjoy all of Jody's books. I was surprised to see that she'd written a western series, but she's a master of genres so I gave it a try. First, I love marriage of convenience stories and this one was satisfying as the hero and heroine are thrown together in marriage, immediately become aware of their attraction for one another, and then it's a slow burn (and sizzling) romance from there. The characters and plot are complex, and there's a great twist 3/4 of the way through, however, I did feel that the "twist" worked itself out too easily and perfectly. 

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I recommend it to anyone who likes historical romance, especially in a western setting. I look forward to the next book in the series. 

Tidewater Bride by Laura Frantz

 

Selah Hopewell, Virginia Colony's most eligible woman, is busy matchmaking for a ship of brides, though she has no wish to wed.

Xander Renick is perhaps the most eligible tobacco lord in the settlement, but he is already wedded to his business and still grieves the loss of his wife, daughter of the Powhatan chief.

Can two fiercely independent people find happiness and fulfillment on their own? Or will they discover that what they've been missing in life has been right in front of them all along

Publisher: Revell, 2021

Series: standalone novel

Genre: historical romance

Setting: James Towne, Virginia Colony, 1634

My Review

Many books I've read set in Virginia Colony have been too dry for my taste, but not so with Tidewater Bride. The plot is rich with adventure, the characters are complex and deep, and the romance is sizzling! The storyline is original and true to Ms. Frantz's poetic and engaging prose. This book gave me all the feels. Truly the best book I've read in a long time.

The Right Kind of Fool by Sarah Loudin Thomas

 

Thirteen-year-old Loyal Raines is supposed to stay close to home on a hot summer day in 1934. When he slips away for a quick swim in the river and finds a dead body, he wishes he'd obeyed his mother. The ripples caused by his discovery will impact the town of Beverly, West Virginia, in ways no one could have imagined.

The first person those ripples disturb is Loyal's absentee father. When Creed Raines realized his infant son was deaf, he headed for the hills, returning only to help meet his family's basic needs. But when Loyal, now a young teen, stumbles upon a murder it's his father he runs to tell--shaping the words with his hands. As Creed is pulled into the investigation he discovers that what sets his son apart isn't his inability to hear but rather his courage. Longing to reclaim the life he abandoned, Creed will have to do more than help solve a murder if he wants to win his family's hearts again.

Publisher: Bethany House, 2020

Genre: historical fiction

Series: standalone novel

My Review

Ms. Thomas is a master storyteller. Her folk-inspired characters are every bit as warm and flawed as a decades-old quilt pieced together by the colorful members of the communities she creates. I look forward to her books every year, knowing a part of myself will be whisked away to a home I’ve never visited.

The Right Kind of Fool is both beautiful and heartbreaking. A community is shaken. Misplaced love is found again. Relationships are rebuilt even stronger than before. Set against the backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains, The Right Kind of Fool is a wonderful reminder to embrace differences (even our own), hold our loved ones close, and stand for truth no matter how difficult the circumstances.

The Key to Love by Betsy St. Amant

 LOVE DOESN'T ALWAYS LOOK 

THE WAY WE EXPECT

The only thing Bri Duval loves more than baking petit fours is romance. So much so, she's created her own version of the famous Parisian lovelock wall at her bakery in Story, Kansas. She never expects it to go viral--or for Trek Magazine to send travel writer Gerard Fortier to feature the bakery. He's definitely handsome, but Bri has been holding out for a love story like the one her parents had, and that certainly will not include the love-scorned-and-therefore-love-scorning Gerard.

Just when it seems Bri's bakery is poised for unprecedented success, a series of events threaten not just her business but the pedestal she's kept her parents on all these years. Maybe Gerard is right about romance. Or maybe Bri's recipe just needs to be tweaked.

Novelist Betsy St. Amant invites you to experience this sweet story of how love doesn't always look the way we expect--and maybe that's a good thing. 

Publisher: Revell, 2020

Genre: contemporary romance

Series: this is a standalone novel

Setting: Kansas

My Review

The Key to Love was a fun, light-hearted romance to offset the current chaos of 2020. I liked how the author combined Parisian culture and elements with small-town Kansas, and the desserts mentioned throughout the book had me craving baked goods. The "opposites attract" trope is one of my favorites, however, the hero and heroine were a bit too extreme in their viewpoints at times for my taste, which made them come across as harsh with one another at times. Their well-written, witty banter helped smooth their bumpy relationship as a whole, especially after they began softening toward one another. The secondary characters added a layer of depth and fun to the story. The author did a good job at reminding us that love is much more than giddy feelings or perfect events set into place--sometimes it's hard, sometimes it gets ugly, but love is a choice and can overcome the odds. I rate this book at 4 stars. 

The Haunting at Bonaventure Circus by Jamie Jo Wright

WELCOME TO BONAVENTURE CIRCUS, 

WHERE MISFITS GO TO HIDE.

1928
The Bonaventure Circus is a refuge for many, but Pippa Ripley was rejected from its inner circle as a baby. When she receives mysterious messages from someone called the "Watchman," she is determined to find him and the connection to her birth. As Pippa's search leads her to a man seeking justice for his murdered sister and evidence that a serial killer has been haunting the circus train, she must decide if uncovering her roots is worth putting herself directly in the path of the killer.

Present Day
The old circus train depot will either be torn down or preserved for historical importance, and its future rests on real estate project manager Chandler Faulk's shoulders. As she dives deep into the depot's history, she's also balancing a newly diagnosed autoimmune disease and the pressures of single motherhood. When she discovers clues to the unsolved murders of the past, Chandler is pulled into a story far darker and more haunting than even an abandoned train depot could portend.

Publisher: Bethany House, 2020

Genre: romantic suspense

Series: standalone novel, not part of a series

My Review

The Haunting at Bonaventure Circus hooked me at page one. This split-time novel switches from Pippa Ripley's story in 1928 to Chandler Faulk's story in present day. Both women are stronger than they realize, let their physical ailments hold them back,  and come to care for men outside of their circles. But both women also face a moment when they have to set their fears aside, release their courage, and do what is right. 

Jaime Jo Wright's writing is deep and captivating. Her characters are realistic in their flaws. Her plots are twisted and unique. Both eras in this book told a story all its own, yet they came together beautifully in the end. I highly suggest this book to anyone who enjoys suspense that isn't predictable and/or circus-related stories. 

I give this book four stars! 

An Appalachian Summer by Ann H. Gabhart

In 1933, most people are focused on the Great Depression but all Piper Danson can think about is how to get out of being a debutante and marrying Braxton Crandall. In an act of defiance, Piper volunteers as a frontier nursing courier in the Appalachian Mountains where adventure awaits.

Publisher: Revell, 2020

Genre: Historical Romance

Setting: Appalachia, 1933

My Review

This is the first book I've read by this author. The premise intrigued me, the characters were likable, and the beginning of the book started off strong. While well-written, my excitement for the story waned the further I read. I felt that some parts slowed the story enough that it caused me to lose my interest. I, honestly, did not finish the book. I was halfway through. It's a book I will hang onto and try again at another time in case my current mood affected my reading.

At Love's Command by Karen Witemeyer

HE'S FOUGHT THROUGH RUTHLESS OUTLAWS AND INJURY,

BUT WITH HER, HE'S TEMPTED TO SURRENDER

Ex-cavalry officer Matthew Hanger leads a band of mercenaries who defend the innocent, but when a rustler's bullet leaves one of them at death's door, they seek out help from Dr. Josephine Burkett. When Josephine's brother is abducted and she is caught in the crossfire, Matthew may have to sacrifice everything--even his team--to save her.


Publisher: Bethany House, 2020
Genre: Historical Romance
Setting: Texas, 1893
Series: Hanger's Horsemen, book one



My Review
At Love’s Command is a smashing start to a great new series. The book opens with gripping action and solidifies the relationships between Hanger’s Horsemen. The hero and heroine are lovable, noble, and flawed, and their attraction sizzles from the moment they meet. A gripping plot drives the story forward, blending perfectly with the setting. The last two chapters made this romantic’s heart sing! I cannot wait for book two in this series.

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.

The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund

Haunted by mistakes in her past, 

will she ever again trust her heart to another? 

Wealthy Arabella Lawrence flees to British Columbia on a bride ship still wearing the scars of past mistakes. One of the few single women in the boomtown, she immediately has suitors, but she is determined not to find herself trapped again by a poor choice.

Vying for her hand are two very different men. Lieutenant Richard Drummond is a gentleman in the Navy and is held in high esteem. Peter Kelly is the town's baker and has worked hard to build a thriving business. He and Drummond not only compete for Arabella's affections, but clash over their views of how the natives should be treated in the midst of a smallpox outbreak.

As Arabella begins to overcome her fears, she discovers someone in dire need—a starving girl abandoned by her tribe. Intent on helping the girl, Arabella leans on Peter's advice and guidance. Will she have the wisdom to make the right decision or will seeking what's right cost both her and Peter everything?

Publisher: Bethany House, 2020

Genre: historical romance

Setting: Vancouver Island, 1862

Series: Book #2 in The Bride Ship series

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

My Review

I'm a huge fan of Jody Hedlund. Her attention to detail and the masterful way she crafts a story always holds me spellbound. I read A Reluctant Bride, book one in this series, and was delighted to see those characters make brief appearances in this book. Each are written as standalone novels, so reading them in order isn't necessary to understand the series. It just makes it more fun. 

Arabella Lawrence's backstory is dangled in front of the reader from the start and is revealed organically as the story progresses. She is strong and wonderful and flawed and absolutely lovable. Two men are vying for her affection: Lieutenant Richard Drummond of the Navy and Peter Kelly, a humble baker. Both men have their strengths and weaknesses, and I was torn between who I wanted to win Arabella's heart the first half of the book. As the story concludes, her backstory is fully laid out--revealing the true challenges of the day--the reader is left satisfied with her choice, and left eagerly awaiting book three. 

I look forward to the next book in the series, as well as reading more of Jody's books I haven't read yet. 

When Silence Sings by Sarah Loudin Thomas

After the rival McLean clan guns down his cousin, Colman Harpe chooses peace over seeking revenge with his family. But when he hears God tell him to preach to the McLeans, a failed attempt to run away leaves him sick and suffering in their territory. He soon learns that appearances can be deceiving, and the face of evil doesn't look like he expected.


Publisher: Bethany House, 2019
Genre: historical fiction (with light romance)
Setting: West Virginia, 1930


My Review
I love Sarah’s books because of their authenticity. Her characters are so genuine in their triumphs and their flaws. Her settings feel like home. Her plots are relevant with sound Bible teaching stitched throughout like a handmade quilt you want to wrap up in.

When Silence Sings is beautifully written and stays with you long after you turn the last page. I highly recommend this book.

Hope's Highest Mountain by Misty M. Beller

On her way to deliver vaccines to a mining town in the Montana Territory, Ingrid Chastain never anticipated a terrible accident would leave her alone and badly injured in the wilderness. When rescue comes in the form of a mysterious mountain man, she's hesitant to trust him, but the journey ahead will change their lives more than they could have known.

Publisher: Bethany House, 2019

Genre: historical romance

Setting: 1866 Montana Territory

Series: Hearts of Montana, book one

My Review

The first chapter had me hooked. Ingrid immediately befalls tragedy and injury, which hinders a timely delivery of the smallpox vaccines that have brought her to the territory. It also hinders Micah's plan to stay sheltered in the mountains away from other people. Lives are at stake as a town is awaiting the arrival of the vaccines and the longer Ingrid is delayed the more lives might be lost. Micah, former doctor and broken man after losing his wife and child to smallpox a few years earlier doesn't want any part of this mission. But Ingrid is strong and determined and soon talks him into helping her accomplish her task. Relying on each other throughout the rough travel builds a trust and friendship that's essential in the wild Montana mountains. One setback after another interferes with the vaccine delivery and great secondary characters are added along the way. The plot is engaging, the characters relatable, and the romance sweet. This was the first book I've read by this author and it won't be my last. I give this book three of five stars. 

The Spice King by Elizabeth Camden

Gray Delacroix has dedicated his life to building a successful global spice empire, but it has come at a cost. Tasked with gaining access to the private Delacroix plant collection, Smithsonian botanist Annabelle Larkin unwittingly steps into a web of dangerous political intrigue and will be forced to choose between her heart and her loyalty to her country.

Publisher: Bethany House, 2019

Genre: historical romance

My Review

I love Ms. Camden's books for the way she makes history come alive. Her characters are solid, relatable, and intriguing. Her plot lines are gripping, and she weaves true history into fiction masterfully. I always learn something when I read one of her books.

The Spice King was no exception. Grey Delacroix was flawed yet oh-so-dreamy as owner of a global spice empire, a perfect match for the energetic and driven Annabelle Larkin, a Smithsonian botanist. I enjoyed learning about various spices, the various ways they were formulated and bottled, and the challenge the government had regulating such items.

The side plot and supporting characters in this story were so well written, I'm impatiently waiting for Ms. Camden's next book.

Summer By The Tides by Denise Hunter

From the bestselling author of The Convenient Groom (now a beloved Hallmark Original movie) comes a heartfelt story of family secrets, forgiveness, and unexpected romance.

Following a painful betrayal, Maddy Monroe's love life is a wreck, and her restaurant career is in shambles. When her grandmother goes missing, she and her estranged sisters converge at the family beach house in Sea Haven, North Carolina. Being with uptight Nora and free-spirited Emma at the place where their family broke apart is a struggle, and undercurrents of jealousy and resentment threaten to pull the sisters under. In the midst of the storm, sparks begin to fly between Maddy and Gram's maddening neighbor, Connor Murphy.

As the sisters pack up the family belongings, memories of idyllic, slow-paced summers are resurrected. But long-buried secrets also come to light as Maddy discovers that all was not as it appeared that last summer in Sea Haven--nor today in the seemingly perfect lives of her sisters.

As family tensions rise and Connor causes tumult in Maddy's heart, the sisters must find a way to accept each other for the women they've become before the bitterness of the past destroys their hope for a future.

~*------------*~

My Review
If Hallmark doesn't turn this book into a made-for-TV movie I'll be severely disappointed. Hunter goes beyond her typical romance plot and incorporates a splash of women's fiction and a drop of family saga (yes, puns intended....). However, since this is a standalone novel, every side plot is nicely tied together by the end. The romance between Conner and Maddy is strong and satisfying (and a little angst-y at times, which keeps the pages turning). The setting made me wish I was there. I'm a big fan of Ms. Hunter's, and I can't wait to see what she brings her readers next!

Powerful Prayers for Your Son: Praying for Every Part of His Life

Parents know that their children need their prayers. But sometimes, they aren't sure where to start. For moms and dads who long to lift their kids up in prayer, Powerful Prayers for Your Daughter and Powerful Prayers for Your Son offer hope, encouragement, and practical help.

Rob and Joanna Teigen assure parents that just because they don't always understand their son or daughter, that doesn't mean that God doesn't. Collecting specific prayers parents can use, along with stories from other parents about how God has answered their prayers, Rob and Joanna give readers a strong foundation to build a lifelong habit of praying for their kids. They also explain what boys and girls need to learn as they grow up, including character, courage, modesty, self-control, forgiveness, and more, so parents can pray for every part of their kids' lives. 


Publisher: Revell, 2014
Genre: non-fiction, parenting, prayer
Authors: Rob & Joanna Reuben



My Review
I requested this book because I have three sons, two of which are teenagers. As we're diving into new territory with first jobs, driver's licences, college scouting, and dating, I've upped the intensity of my prayers. Will they make the right choices when Mom and Dad aren't around? Will they stand up for what's right when the pressure is on? Are they taking their relationship with God seriously? I know I'm not alone with these thoughts feelings. So I was delighted when I got the opportunity to read and review this book. 

With 77 short prayers, the authors guide readers to the various topics specifically geared to young men. Using their own son's life as an example, they share their expertise, fears, and lessons learned. The book also contains stories from other moms and their testimonies of faith. 

This is a book I'll keep on my shelf and come back to offen, I'm sure. I give this book four stars. 

Whose Waves These Are by Amanda Dykes

In the wake of WWII, a grieving fisherman submits a poem to a local newspaper asking readers to send rocks in honor of loved ones to create something life-giving but the building halts when tragedy strikes. Decades later, Annie returns to the coastal Maine town where stone ruins spark her curiosity and her search for answers faces a battle against time.

Publisher: Bethany House, 2019

Genre: historical fiction, time slip novel

My Review

First of all, this cover is stunning. The color tones and title were the first to catch my attention. Then, I read the blurb and discovered it was set in Maine, and I was all in. With a unique premise and the time-hopping plot, I was excited to get my hands on this book. 

And it did not disappoint. 

This author’s prose is poetic and graceful and unlike any voice I’ve ever read. She wrote a perfect balance of setting details (so I felt I was really in Maine), character authenticities, and plot pacing. At times I wondered how the two stories would connect and then they did, and it was magical. 

I enjoyed finding little nuggets of similarity between her Maine story and my Cadence of Acadia series, also set in Maine. Like the fact they’re set in a small town in basically the same area, near Machias. The town meetings, the broken heroine who returns to Maine for healing without realizing that’s what she’s really there for, etc. It’s clear we both have a love and passion for the area, and it feels as though I’ve found a kindred spirit in the writing world. 

I have definitely found a new favorite author in Amanda Dykes and will be suggesting this book to others for months to come. I look forward to reading what she brings readers next. 

*I recommend this book to anyone looking for deep, soul-stirring read. For those who don’t like heavy romance, this story is light in those regards. For those who enjoy heavy romance, there’s enough love stories of substance throughout the book to make it completely satisfying.