The Reunion by Dan Walsh

Back Cover:

Everything lost can be found.

Aaron Miller knows a thing or two about loss. He's lost love. Dignity. Second, and even third, chances. Once honored for his heroism, he now lives in near obscurity, working as a handyman in a humble trailer park.

But God is a master at finding and redeeming the lost things of life. Unbeknownst to Aaron, someone is searching for him.

With deep insight into the human heart, consummate storyteller Dan Walsh gently weaves a tale of a life spent in the shadows but meant for the light. Through tense scenes of war and tender moments of romance, The Reunion will make you believe that everyone can get a second chance at life and love.

Review:

I had previously read a Dan Walsh novel, and wasn’t too impressed with it. So I didn’t know what to expect with his new novel The Reunion. I am happy to report that I was very pleased with this book, with its interesting history, and unique story line.

I loved that this novel is about the Vietnam War. I have only ever really heard negative thing about it. I loved that this book portrayed that war in a better light, and apologized to the veterans for how America treated them when they returned.

I really enjoyed the main plot: finding a war hero, Aaron Miller, who has faded into oblivion, so that his war buddies can properly thank him for saving their lives. This was such an emotional, loving plot and I love how Aaron’s story was based on real people.

The secondary plot, about the relationship between the writer David Russo, and Aaron’s estranged daughter Karen, was a little far-fetched. I didn’t mind it, but a love at first sight/ whirl wind romance was kind of unbelievable.

Dan Walsh did an excellent job on The Reunion. I loved learning about the history behind the Vietnam War and how things finally changed for the soldiers who came home. A terrific read for any lover of historical fiction.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

A Home in Drayton Valley by Kim Vogel Sawyer

Back Cover:

A dream of a better life...
A tragedy aboard a wagon train...
A tentative agreement..
Will it lead to love for two seeking hearts?

Hoping to escape the poor conditions of 1880 New York, Tarsie Raines and her friends Joss and Mary Brubacher and their two children set off for Kansas aboard an unusual wagon train. But when tragedy strikes on the trip across the prairie, Tarsie is thrown into a partnership with Joss that leaves them both questioning God and their plans for the future.

As their funds dwindle and nothing goes as planned, will they give up and go their separate ways? Or will God use their time in Drayton Valley in a way they never expected?

Review:

A Home in Drayton Valley was a lovely read, but a bit predictable. The characters had some surprising depth; however the story line did not.

Tarsie Raines is a feisty Irish woman, with lots of spunk. I admire her, because she dares to make her dreams a reality, to take chances, but also cares for those around her, and makes an effort to try to do God’s will.

Joss Brubacher is a hard, stubborn man. He has hardened his heart against the world, is prejudiced and proud. However through Tarsie and others around him, God’s love slowly penetrates his heart.

As I was reading A Home in Drayton Valley, I could easily predict what was going to happen. I was pleasantly surprised along the way with some different characters Kim Vogel Sawyer introduced

Chick-lit readers will enjoy this book. It is a lovely combination of romance, faith, struggles, a happy ending. I, however, would like a book that will keep me wanting more. 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

The Bridesmaid by Beverly Lewis

Back Cover:

Joanna Kurtz has made several trips to the altar, but never as a bride. The young Amishwoman is a closet writer whose stories aren't her only secret.

Eben Troyer hopes to make Joanna his bride--if he can ever leave his parents' farm in Shipshewana, Indiana. Yet Eben's hopes to build a life with Joanna hinge on his brother's return from the English world....

 

Review:

Beverly Lewis has written another successful Amish novel. I really enjoyed The Bridesmaid, with its wonderful story, characters, and setting.

Joanna Kurtz is such a great character. I related so well with her and her struggles. She worries about her future, twenty four and still unmarried. When she meets and falls in love with Eben Troyer, her problems only increase – now having a secret long distance relationship and difficulties with her sister Cora Jane.

Joanna has grown up in Hickory Hollow, the beautiful Amish town Joanna loves and has committed herself to. It is evident that Beverly Lewis loves this place, and expresses this to the reader. Hickory Hollow came alive for me as I followed Joanna and Eben’s story.

 

Beverly Lewis did such an excellent job on The Bridesmaid. It has the perfect combination of romance, excitement, and anticipation to not be able to put the book down!

 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group. 

WIth Every Letter by Sarah Sundin

Back Cover:

Lt. Mellie Blake is looking forward to beginning her training as a flight nurse. She is not looking forward to writing a letter to a man she’s never met–even if it is anonymous and part of a morale-building program. Lt. Tom MacGilliver, an officer stationed in North Africa, welcomes the idea of an anonymous correspondence–he’s been trying to escape his infamous name for years.

As their letters crisscross the Atlantic, Tom and Mellie develop a unique friendship despite not knowing the other’s true identity. When both are transferred to Algeria, the two are poised to meet face-to-face for the first time. Will they overcome their fears and reveal who they are, or will their future be held hostage by their pasts?

Combining a flair for romance with excellent research and attention to detail, Sarah Sundin vividly brings to life the perilous challenges of WWII aviation, nursing–and true love.


Review:

This was a fabulous book. It holds a combination of wonderful characters, a great plot, history, and romance. It captivated me from the first page.

The first great thing about this novel were the characters: I grew attached to them from the very beginning, the characters grew as the story continued, and you could feel their emotions and struggles. Mellie Blake had so many stuggles that everyone can relate with: feeling out of place, difficulty making friends, wanting to be more confident and self assured. Tom MacGilliver also has problems the reader can identify with: dealing with his reputation, and having many acquaintances but few close friends.

I loved the story line. It was a fresh take on a romance novel, that I haven't seen before. I really enjoyed how the story was based on historical events (as I am a huge historical fiction fan), and exposed me to parts of WW2 that I hadn't thought about before.

I enjoyed this book from the get-go. It was a cute book with depth and a fresh story line. Sarah Sundin did an excellent job.


Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

The Haven by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Back Cover:

Spring brings new life, young love, and second chances to Stoney Ridge. On a warm spring day, Sadie Lapp returns home to her quiet, unassertive life in Stoney Ridge after spending the winter in Ohio.
Gideon Smucker, an awkward schoolteacher, has been in love with Sadie since childhood and eagerly awaits her return. But does Sadie feel the same about him?
Will Stoltz, a charming and impetuous college student, has been banished for a semester and sent to babysit endangered peregrine falcons nesting at the Lapp farm. He'd rather be anywhere else . . . until he befriends Sadie.
As the hopes and ambitions of these three young people converge, life in Stoney Ridge may never be the same.
Once again, bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher intrigues and delights with a story that explores the bonds of friendship, family, and true love in this captivating series.

Review:

If I had to describe this book in a few words, I would say: A very cute romance novel, with an Amish twist. It is a story about young love, friendship, family, and discovering who you are and what you want in life.

This is a second book in a series, but it is a good stand alone novel. I could gather enough from the second book to figure out what had happened in the previous book, without being confusing or guessing.

This was a very down to earth story – nothing was over exaggerated, and I didn’t find anything too unbelievable. Suzanne Woods Fisher tells her story with a perfect balance of humor and seriousness.

I really enjoyed the story and characters. Sadie is having difficulty deciding between two very different boys, the tension is growing between the two potential beaus, and of course a mischievous little sister to stir up trouble!

And of course, this story leaves off with a few huge questions – guaranteeing that I will be picking up the next book in the series, not to mention the first book as well!

It was a lovely summer read, light but not boring, and overall an enjoyable read.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Whispers in the Wind by Lauraine Snelling

Back Cover:

After fleeing North Dakota and the now defunct Wild West Show, Cassie Lockwood and her companions have finally found the hidden valley in South Dakota where her father had dreamed of putting down roots. But to her dismay, she discovers a ranch already built on her land.

Cassie's arrival surprises Mavis Engstrom and forces her to reveal secrets she's kept hidden for years. Her son Ransom is suspicious of Cassie and questions the validity of her claim to the valley. But Lucas Engstrom decides from the start that he is in love with her and wants to marry her.

Will Cassie be able to build a home on the Bar E Ranch and fulfill her father's dream of raising horses, or will she be forced to return to the itinerant life of her past?

Review:

This book starts off right were the first in the Wild West Wind series ends. I had recently reread the first book in the series (click here for my review of Valley of Dreams - the first book in the series!) so I was able to pick up the book and know what was happening.

In this book, Cassie deals with coming to grip of having part ownership of a ranch, providing for her family, trying to find her place in the community, dealing with the past, and romance problems! It was fun to read about how Cassie learned how to run a homestead and ranch, and all the problems or unpleasantness that came along with it.

The character development is wonderful in the book. Lauraine Snelling introduced the characters from the first book, and now develops them into something special. There are a lot of characters in this series, but they all a wonderful addition to the story.

The second book definitely answered questions left unanswered from the first, but the only thing I though when I finished the book was, is this all? I have so many more questions – I want to know what happens next! I will definitely be waiting for the third installment of the Wild West Wind series. Lauraine Snelling has done a wonderful job!



Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Inescapable by Nancy Mehl

Back Cover:

Lizzie Engel is used to running away. At eighteen, she left her Mennonite hometown, her family, and her faith with plans never to return. Five years later, Lizzie finds she'll have to run again. False accusations at her job, a stalker, and a string of anonymous threatening letters have left her with no other options. This time, however, her escape is back to Kingdom, her hometown.

As Lizzie becomes reacquainted with Kingdom, she realizes she may not have left her Mennonite roots and her faith as firmly in the past as she thought. She draws on the support of Noah Housler, an old friend, as she hides out and attempts to plan her next steps.

When it becomes painfully clear that the danger has followed Lizzie to Kingdom, suspicions and tensions run high, and she no longer knows who to trust. With her life and the lives of those she loves at risk, Lizzie will have to run one last time--to a Father whose love is inescapable.


Review:

This book was refreshingly differant take of the Mennonite lifestyle. I really enjoyed this book, though it left me with a wondering about a few things.

Lizzie Engel and her daughter Charity, are wonderful characters in this book. Having been scorned by her family when she made a mistake, Lizzie leaves her Mennonite life behind her to raise her daughter. I found myself admiring Lizzie more and more as the story progressed. When she is plauged with some bad circumstances, she puts her negative feelings behind for the sake of her daughter, and returns home.

Charity brings an innocent, humorous view of life to the story. It not only gives the reader a refreshing view of some serious events, but adds a lot of humor to the book.

The mystery was definately enjoyable, and had some twist and turns that I didn't expect. Nothing predictable in this novel!

One thing I notices, and enjoyed, was that the story written was in the first person. I find (or haven't ever noticed) that most chic lit books are written in 3rd person. The reader is Lizzie, and it adds a depth to the story that I don't normally find. I applaud Nancy Mehl for her great writing.

One of the thigns I was wondering about was the romance angle in this book. Lizzie reconnects with an old friendof hers, and they start building a relationship. Now I know that there are some Mennonite commuities that are less stricts about rules, but can a Mennonite man (an elder I might add) have a relationship with a non-Mennonite woman? Although Lizzie was a Christian, she did not seem all that eager to jump back into the Mennonite way of life. Something I hope Nancy Mehl will address in the next book of the Kingdom series.

When you throw in some intrege and mystery, a bit of romance, and great characters, with a Mennonite twist, you have this Inescabable. I am excited for the next book in the series to continue Lizzie's story, and to get a unique view of the Mennonite lifestyle.


Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

The Deposit Slip by Todd M. Johnson

Back Cover:

$10,000,000 Is Missing.

Erin Larson is running out of options. In the wake of her father's death, she found a slim piece of paper--a deposit slip--with an unbelievable amount on it. Only the bank claims they have no record of the money, and trying to hire a lawyer has brought only intimidation and threats. Erin's last chance is Jared Neaton.

How Far Will One Lawyer Go to Find the Money?

When Jared wearied of the shady ethics of his big law firm and started his own, he never expected the wheels to fly off so quickly. One big loss has pushed him to the brink, and it's all he can do to scrape by.

And How Far Will Someone Go to Stop Him?

He's not sure if Erin's case is worth the risk, but if the money is real, all his problems could vanish. When digging deeper unleashes something far more dangerous than just threats, both Jared and Erin must decide the cost they're willing to pay to discover the truth.

Review:

The Deposit Slip was a great mystery novel, with unexpected twists and turns I could not see coming.

I was hooked by the story immediately, as mystery started to unfold. The way the novel was written was terrific, by giving the reader a somewhat overall big picture view of the story, yet still not revealing the entire mystery. I found myself becoming more and more engaged in the story.

I don’t normally read legal fiction, but The Deposit Slip was terrific. It had the right proportion of courtroom and mystery solving. All the legal jargon was explained, without feeling like it was a dictionary.

I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome of the story. I really enjoyed the plot twists I didn’t anticipate, keeping me hooked on the novel.

I was drawn into the book, and couldn’t put it down – the tell tale sign of a story well done. Todd M. Johnson did a fabulous job.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.  

Love in Disguise by Carol Cox

Back Cover:

Can she solve the crime before they uncover her true identity?

Jobless and down to her last dime, Ellie Moore hears about a position with the Pinkerton Detective Agency and believes it's the perfect chance to put her acting skills and costumes to use. Reluctantly, the agency agrees to give her one assignment, one chance to prove herself. Disguised as Lavinia Stewart, a middle-aged widow, Ellie travels to Arizona to begin her investigation. When the need arises, she also transforms into the dazzling Jessie Monroe, whose vivacious personality encourages people to talk.

Mine owner Steven Pierce is going to lose his business if he can't figure out who's stealing his silver shipments. In his wildest dreams, he never expected to receive help from a gray-haired widow...or to fall in love with her beautiful niece.

Then the thieves come after Lavinia and Jessie. Ellie isn't safe no matter which character she plays! Should she give up and reveal her true identity? What will Steven do when he realizes the woman he's falling in love with doesn't really exist?

Set in 1880s Arizona, Love in Disguise blends romance, humor, and mystery for a can't-put-down read. 

Review:

Love in Disguise was a great book. It blends mystery, romance and the Wild West into a very entertaining read.

I really enjoyed the character of Ellie and her many alter-egos. Ellie’s problem of keeping up her two facades characters in order was quite humorous to read. I think this book is so enjoyable because the idea of having an alter-ego is so attractive. Don’t we all sometimes wish we were someone else who was more self-confident, more popular, more outgoing?

Ellie’s quick and forward thinking was definitely her best attribute, using it to “connect the dots” and solve the mystery.

The story line was pretty good. It played out somewhat like a Wild West tv show or movie, but had enough twists to keep it enjoyable and keep me on my toes.

The setting was also great. I recently have been on a Wild West kick, so reading the general store, the saloons, and the rest of the town come to life was really fun.

Steven and Ellie’s whirlwind romance was a bit far-fetched, but still appealed to my romantic chic-lit side.

Love in Disguise was a fun book to read. I believe Carol Cox did an excellent job with this book.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Words Spoken True by Ann H. Gabhart

Back Cover:
One woman stands ready to defend her newspaper . . . even if it means losing out on love.

Adriane Darcy was practically raised in her father's newspaper offices. With ink in her veins, she can't imagine life without the clatter of the press and the push to be first to write the news that matters. Their Tribune is the leading paper in Louisville in 1855.

When Blake Garrett, a brash young editor from the North with a controversial new style of reporting, takes over a competing newspaper, the battle for readers gets fierce. After Adriane and Blake meet at a benefit, their surprising mutual attraction is hard to ignore. Still, Blake is the enemy, and Adriane is engaged to the son of a powerful businessman who holds the keys to the Tribune's future. Blake will stop at almost nothing to get the story--and the girl.

Set against the volatile backdrop of political and civil unrest in 1850s Louisville, this exciting story of love and loyalty will hold you in its grip until the very last page.

Review:
I very much enjoyed this book. The characters were interesting and the historical setting and story were inspiring for the imagination.

Adrianne Darcy is your typical stuborn, confident, proud heroine. She is loyal to her father and his newspaper, even though she might not agree with her father's opinions. Especially with his decision of marrying her off to a son of a wealthy politician, whom she does not love. But for her father's sake, she tries to submit herself to that decision.

Blake Garrett is an up-in-coming newspaper editor, intent of publishing the news - not just praising the politicians of the city. When he meets Adrianne Darcy, they have an instant connection. He is decided to win her over.

I have always enjoyed historical novels. The book is based on true events and Ann H. Gabhart has done a marvelous job in transporting the reader. My imagination went wild picturing the city and the events that occurred.

I main thing I disliked about the book was the lack of focus on God in Adrianne and Blake's relationship. Adrianne does work through her issues on relying on God. but when it came to God in her relationship with Blake, it was almost non-existent. I also found that Blake spent no time focusing on his relationship with God. I almost came to wonder if he had a relationship with God at all, and was more focused on his job and on winning Adrianne over.

Overall, I greatly enjoyed the book. Gabhart did an excellent job expressing the characters and setting. I just feel like the story had so much more potential when it came to exploring God's relationship with the characters and in their relationships with others.

This book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Published Group.

In Too Deep by Mary Connealy

Back Cover:
He casually agrees to a marriage of convenience... never expecting to fall in love with his bride.

Ethan Kincaid proposes marriage with the same detachment he gives every decision. Audra Gilliland accepts his proposal so she can stop being a burden to her newly married stepdaughter.

But Ethan never expected Audra to affect him so profoundly, and it terrifies him. Someone he loved was once seriously injured on his watch, and he won't let that happen again. If Audra will just do as he says, he can keep her safe from the dangers that lurk on the ranch.

Audra has been cared for all her life by one man or another--and they've done a poor job of it. Now she's planning to stand up for herself. And her new husband had better agree or get out of her way!

Can two fearful hearts--wary of getting in too deep--become two trusting hearts, willing to let go and fall in love?

Review:
In too Deep by Mary Connealy is the second in a series. I was not able to read the first book before the this book, but I was happy to see that it was not absolutely necessary. Mary Connealy did an great job in explaining what happened in the previous book - though I will read the first book to understand better the characters and what exactly happened.

Ethan was not your typical hero of a romantic story. His older brother Rafe - the take-charge, decision-making man is more the man you would expect as the hero. Ethan has to take care of his younger brother Seth, who has mental issues. Ethan goes along with Rafe, takes care of Seth, and is the peacemaker of the family. He stubborn and protective, especially when it comes to the people he loves.

Audra also has some major issues from her past marriage. Now she accepts Ethan's hand, out of convenience. But she is decided she won't let anyone push her around anymore, and make her opinion heard.

Facing your fears is the major theme though the book. A childhood accident have scared the brothers and left Ethan feel guilty for years. The brothers, and especially Ethan are forced to face their past. Audra has to face her past as well when bandits chasing her former husband come to cause trouble.
I enjoyed the book overall. Mary Connealy did an excellent job writing the story.




Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.