This is my little place in cyberspace, I love to read and write, so here I write about what I read. I'm not a professional, just blog about what I am reading at the moment!
Moved by the desire for adventure and a yearning to help the Ute Indians, twenty-year-old Shiloh Wainright impulsively accepts a teaching position at the White River Indian Agency in northwestern Colorado. The new job, however, isn't what she imagined it would be, and Shiloh soon finds herself caught in the cross fire between the Utes, their unyielding Indian Agent, and the unrealistic demands of the US government. Her unexpected encounter with Jesse Blackwater, an embittered half-breed Ute and childhood friend, only complicates matters as they battle their growing feelings for each other amidst the spiraling tensions threatening to explode into a catastrophic Indian uprising.
Set amongst the wilds of the Colorado Rockies in 1879, this is a tale of a forbidden love and a faith tested in the cauldron of intolerance and the harsh realities of life on the untamed frontier. Bestselling author Kathleen Morgan deftly explores themes of mercy, fidelity to one's beliefs despite what others think or do, and compassion for those different from oneself as she plumbs the depths of the human heart and the healing power of God's love.
My Thoughts:
This was a great book. Shiloh takes a teaching position in Colorado. It turns out that the agency isn't all they represent themselves to be. She has a friend who is Ute, Jesse Blackwater, that she has known since childhood. He fears for her safety and their friendship begins to turn into something more.
I loved how the author shows the difference between the Ute and white ways of life and that the characters get to experience those. The attraction between Jesse and Shiloh is very well written and not over the top. Descriptions of the scenes makes it feel that you are there seeing them for yourself. The author also did a great job of including faith throughout the story without it feeling like it was forced on you, it was just a part of the story.
I rate this a 5/5. The author is a wonderful storyteller!
Thank you to Revell for the review copy of this book. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
Available May 2012 from your favorite seller of Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
Book Description: Three bestselling authors brings fans three classic stories of sexy Irishmen and the women who love them. Includes St. Claire's "The Sins of His Past", "Tangling with Ty" by Jill Shalvis, and "What Reilly Wants" by Maureen Child. Original.
The Sins of His Past by Roxanne St. Claire For one incredible night, Kendra Locke gave Deuce Monroe everything she had. Then he walked away without a backward glance to chase his big-league dreams. Now after one too many daredevil stunts, he's back in his hometown ready to pick up where they left off—but Kendra has no intention of giving in so easily….
Tangling with Ty by Jill Shalvis Dr. Nicole Mann, a child prodigy who graduated high school at the age of thirteen, has no room in her mind or her schedule for romance. But when the architect renovating her apartment turns out to have a charming Irish accent, all bets are off—and Ty Patrick O'Grady plans to use every trick in his book to stay in her life for good.
Whatever Reilly Wants by Maureen Child Connor Reilly only has a few weeks to go in his "no sex for ninety days" bet with his brothers—and he figures no woman is safer to be around than his best friend, Emma Jacobsen. Until Emma shows up at a bar in a short skirt and high heels, and suddenly seems anything but safe!
My Thoughts: I liked them all! The Sins of His Past is an intriguing story of Deuce and Kendra and their shared past. His major league basebal career has ended so he comes home to run the family business...only to find out, it isn't really in the family anymore! The two of them are great characters, Deuce and Kendra just fit perfectly together and the story is intriguing. Tangling with Ty was really good! Ty is the contractor hired to fix up the historical building Nicole lives in. Her two best friends live there as well and are great at match-making, even if the 'too busy doctor' doesn't want it....or does she? The chemistry between Nicole and Ty is tangable and I love that both have thier own issues to work through. Awesome story! Whatever Reilly Wants tangles two best friends up. Connor makes the mistake of taking on a bet he may not can handle, no sex for 90 days. His three brothers are in this bet with him and winner takes $10K. So far, one has dropped out and it is just three of them left and he would have had a great chance if he hadn't ticked Emma off by saying she wasn't female! Love the revenge angle of this that comes back to bite her in the butt! Love the priest brother as well, his smartie pants attitude just fits in with the rest of the storyline and would really be perfect for a priest. Another great story! I rate all these 4/5. Good, quick reads that would be perfect for a 'beach day'!
Thanks to NetGalley for the review copy of this book. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
Book Description:
The charming and often hilarious Forever Hilltop series follows the experiences of former city dweller Alex Armstrong as he settles into his new role as pastor of a Scandinavian community in rural North Dakota. Alex is sometimes baffled by his parishioners and their colorful ways, but he comes to appreciate their simple wisdom. One thing's for sure -- life in Hilltop Township is never dull! This new two-in-one format features An Unlikely Blessing along with its sequel, Surprising Grace.
In An Unlikely Blessing, Alex Armstrong is a former city dweller who has just accepted his first parish assignment to a small community in the wilds of North Dakota. In Hilltop Township, Pastor Alex becomes familiar with the residents and their odd traditions, from julebukking to King Oscar's fish balls. And then there's the excitement the single pastor creates among the unmarried women in the community! Alex soon discovers that his new church home has as much to teach him as he has to teach them.
In Surprising Grace, Alex Armstrong is settling into his new role as pastor of Hilltop Church, and he's even starting to understand the strange ways of the people who populate this barren stretch of North Dakota prairie. But he also finds that his flock needs help and counsel like he never imagined. In this cozy and entertaining read, Alex must choose between the woman he once loved -- and the home he's come to love.
My Thoughts:
This was a great 2 in 1 book. An Unlikely Blessing--Alex Armstrong is a pastor who has reluctantly
accepted his first parish in North Dakota. He is a city boy and it doesn't seem
likely he will make it well up there. When he gets there, he realizes the
community is having problems. Farmers are close to losing their farms, he stirs
up a frenzy with the single women and he starts to feel at home in the wilds of
North Dakota. He begins to believe he was sent there to help the community in
its time of need!
Alex was a wonderful character. He was warm and caring and did his best to
help the members of his community. The people of the community are all very
interesting and I look forward to learning more about them. The story draws you
in and before you know it, it's over!
Surprising Grace--This is an intriguing continuation of the first book. Alex has gotten somewhat used to his new life. Then somethings happens to possibly change it all! He has tough decisions to make all the way around. From the woman he loves and the place he lives to how to contend with a sometimes cantankerous congregation.
I loved that all the characters were back and you could just continue from one book to the other and feel 'at home' with them all. We get more details and really the town makes me think of my small hometown where I grew up. I hope to see more in this series as I completely adore all of them now!
I rate these both a 4/5. They were quite enjoyable books!
Thank you to litfuse for the review copy of this book. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
Book Description:
Author Judy Christie contends that, while the perfect mom doesn't exist, there are successes in the lives of many mothers who have learned to rely upon God and to get back up when they stumble. Within this book readers will recognize many of those kinds of achievements within their own families and find new inspiration and encouragement for moving forward with greater faith, joy, and love.
My Thoughts:
This was a really good book. It is specifically for mothers and focused on some of their problems and needs. It is a short but insightful book. None of the concepts are 'new' but it does put life into a bit more of a perspective than most of us mothers have during the day or week!
I enjoyed it and will be keeping it to reread and reflect on in the future. If you follow the ideas in the book, it shows you how you can 'manage' your life better. Leading to a more fulfilling life as a mother, wife, and just a person.
I rate this a 5/5. Any mother needs this book.
Thank you to PumpUpYourBook for the review copy of this book. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
Book Description: A house shrouded in time. A line of women with a heritage of loss.As a young bride, Susannah Page was rumored to be a Civil War spy for the North, a traitor to her Virginian roots. Her great-granddaughter Adelaide, the current matriarch of Holly Oak, doesn’t believe that Susannah’s ghost haunts the antebellum mansion looking for a pardon, but rather the house itself bears a grudge toward its tragic past.When Marielle Bishop marries into the family and is transplanted from the arid west to her husband’s home, it isn’t long before she is led to believe that the house she just settled into brings misfortune to the women who live there.With Adelaide’s richly peppered superstitions and deep family roots at stake, Marielle must sort out the truth about Susannah Page and Holly Oak— and make peace with the sacrifices she has made for love.
My Thoughts:
This was an intriguing read. Marielle has married into an interesting situation. The house that her new husband and she live in. She has many trials to overcome but she'd never expected a haunted house to be one of them. While she completely disbelieves the theory the first time she hears it, she begins to investigate exactly what the issues with Holly Oak are. What she finds is wonderfully surprising!
I enjoyed that there was two completely different eras civil war and contemporary. The story line was intriguing. I must say, I got completely involved with the civil war part and think this could have been a historical book stand alone without the contemporary part! Susannah was my favorite character and I loved that story. This was a 4/5. It was an interesting book.
Thank you to Blogging for Books for the review copy of this book. I received this in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
Sidelined by injuries from a vicious assault, chaplain Riley Hale is determined to return to her former duties as an ER nurse. But how can she show she's competent when the hospital won't let her attempt even simple tasks? Determined to prove herself, Riley volunteers at a controversial urban free clinic despite her fears about the maverick doctor in charge.Dr. Jack Travis defends his clinic like he's commander of the Alamo. He'll fight the community's efforts to shut its doors, even if he must use Riley Hale's influential family name to make it happen.As Riley strives to regain her skills, Jack finds that she shares his compassion--and stirs his lonely heart. Riley senses that beneath Jack's rough exterior is a man she can believe in. But when clinic protests escalate and questions surface about his past, Jack goes into battle mode and Riley wonders if it's dangerous to trust him with her heart.
My Thoughts:
This was a good one! Riley was an ER nurse and loved it until a brutal attack left her incapable of doing the job. At least that is how the hospital sees her, she knows that she can do it if just given the chance. Jack runs a clinic in the right part of town but for the 'wrong' people. Now the neighbors are trying to shut down the clinic because of the crime rate increase. Riley's family has money and influence and her working at the clinic just might be what both of them need both career wise and emotionally.
I liked Riley. She was kind, caring, considerate but she had a backbone! Jack came across as arrogant occasionally but I think that was his trying to cover feelinigs. The set up for the dog, caretaker and just the whole medical community made you feel like you were there because of all the small details. The whole storyline kept me entranced and I'm looking forward to more from this wonderful author.
I rate this a 5/5. It was a good clean read that had a great storyline.
Thank you to Tyndale for the review copy of this book. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
More page-turning action from a popular author Felicity has decided to become a nun. She departs to visit convents in spite of her mother's imminent arrival and Fr. Anselm's request that she and Fr. Antony recover a missing priceless Russian icon before the Patriarch of Moscow arrives at the community for Holy Week.
Felicity's discernment journey takes her to Rempstone, Norwich, London, and Walsingham, but her discovery of afriend's murdered body in a shallow grave, the disappearance of more icons, the shooting of a London art expert just after she visits him, the disappearance of Antony, and finally the abduction of Felicity and her mother teach her far more about motherhood, life, and love than she could learn in any convent retreat. Breathtaking chase scenes, mystical worship services, dashes through remote water-logged landscapes, the wisdom of ancientholy women, and the arcane rites of The Knights of St. John of Malta keep the pages turning. And will Felicity choose the veil--or Antony?
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this book! Felicity is debating to become a nun when the mystery begins. She has decided to except the feelings she has for Anthony. Her mother is going to visit, which she has a challenging relationship with, but that doesn't stop her from starting an investigation. She and Anthony are investigating a missing icon when it turns out there is a lot more than just that involved, their adventure really begins!
I loved the history throughtout the story! Felicity and Anthony were great characters. I loved the relationship between them, even if it was a bit difficult at times. Her realtionship with her mother, keeps you intrigued. The whole story, especially the different places you get to visit with them, keeps the storyline flowing smoothly. Theft, murder and wonderful history make this story really good!
I rate this a 4/5. I am ready to read more from this author.
Thank you to PumpUpYourBook for the review copy of this book. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
Book Description: It’s a desperate time for rookie vampire Alyssa, and her sanity is hanging by a slender thread. Her clan is still reeling from the monumental battle with Aniketos; a battle that claimed the body of Lysander, her sire and lover, and trapped his spirit in a mysterious crystal. A Soulstone.
Unfortunately, no amount of magic has been able to release Lysander’s spirit, and the stone is starting to fade. Weeks of effort have proved futile. Her clan, the Peregrinus, have all but given up hope. Only Alyssa still believes her lover can be released. In despair, Alyssa begs the help of the local witch coven, and unwittingly exposes the supernaturals of Boston to unwanted attention from the Acta Sanctorum.
The Saints converge on the city and begin their cleansing crusade to rid the world of all things “Unnatural.” In the middle of an all-out war, but no closer to a solution to the dying stone, Alyssa is left with an unenviable choice: save her mate, or save her clan.
My Thoughts: This was a great continuation of the series! Alyssa is having it rough with her mate still trapped in the crystal. She and her clan have been researching but it seems like she is the only one who still has hope. The magic doesn't work with just one witch but when they go to the coven for help, all heck brakes loose and they are back in the sights of the Acta Sanctorum. I love that all the characters are back and they don't scatter or really give up. The wolves being a major part of it is wonderful. I liked the whole story line and am glad that it was absolutely set up for another at least one book but hopefully more. The focus is of course to get Lysander out of the crystal but the various blocks to doing that are well thought out and I look forward to the continuation of the series! I rate this a 4/5 or if you've read the rest f the series, it is a MUST read!
""A ground-breaking contemporary marriage story by best-selling author Beth Wiseman that will stay on your heart long after you've finished it." --Kelly Long, best-selling author of "The Arms of Love
When big-city life threatens the safety of one oftheir children, Brad and Darlene Henderson move with their three teenagers fromHouston to the tiny town of Round Top, Texas.
Adjusting to small-town life is difficult for thekids, especially fifteen-year-old Grace who is coping in a dangerous way.
Married life hasn't always been bliss, but their strong faith has carried them throughthe difficult times. When Darlene takes a job outside the home for the firsttime in their marriage, the domestic tension rises.
While working with special needs children at hernew job, the widowed father of one of Darlene's students starts paying moreattention to her than is appropriate. Problem is, she feels like someone islistening to her for the first time in a long time. If Darlene ever needed God . . . it's now.
"Experience a family's triumphant defeat over lies, betrayal, and loss while still clinging to the One who matters most. "
My Thoughts:
This was a good book. Brad and Darlene have moved their three children from the big city to the country. They were high school sweethearts and have been married for years. Their eldest, Chad, was running with the wrong crowd. Their youngest has learning difficulties and she seems to be doing significantly better but their 'good kid' may have problems that neither is aware of. Darlene feels the need to venture outside the home for some fulfillment and it causes serious issues with the family.
I love the snake at the beginning of the book! That was priceless. All of the characters are well written and I like that the husband, Brad, and the wife, Darlene, have been together for so long--that just is great to me. The fact that they are somewhat blind to their 'good kid's' issues is fitting and real. All the feelings and emotions are something that anyone can relate to but especially a married couple. It will make you think about how much God effects your lives and how much you need Him for your family!!
I rate this a 5/5. The whole book was good, you will laugh, cry and feel everything the characters feel.
Thank you to B& B for the review copy of this book. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
About J.D.
Davis
J.D. Davis was raised in Quitman,
Texas, a quiet community in the northeast part of the state. Having grown up in
a small town in the rural South—similar in many ways to the cousins’
hometown of Ferriday, Louisiana—with many similar influences as the
cousins, he has meaningful insight into these three men.
Davis attended the University of
Texas on a full academic scholarship, received a B.A. with highest honors in
economics, and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. He later received a master’s degree
from SMU.
As a successful businessman,
Davis achieved the highest credentials as an actuary and became a principal in
a large firm while still in his twenties. He currently manages an employee
benefits consulting practice that covers the southern region of the United
States, with offices in four cities.
Davis remembers his father
watching Jimmy Swaggart on television and being intrigued by the evangelist's
magnificent piano talent. As a teenager, Davis became a huge fan of Jerry Lee
Lewis. He first attended one of Lewis’s live performances as a college student
and was awe-struck to see this man put on a breathtaking performance. Davis
grew up listening to country music of the seventies and eighties, when Mickey
Gilley was consistently producing number one country hits. He became fascinated
by the ways these three very different cousins achieved and dealt with eventual
success and has been a dedicated fan for years.
Davis has worked with a talented
team of many. His editors included Elizabeth Kaye, an award winning journalist
who has often written about southern music and southern preachers. As a
contributing editor toRolling
Stone,she
interviewed Sam Phillips and gathered firsthand experience of Jerry Lee Lewis
when covering sessions at which he played with Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, and
Roy Orbison. As a contributing editor to John Kennedy’sGeorgemagazine, Kaye wrote
extensively about Billy Graham and his son Franklin, traveled on several
missionary trips with Franklin, and worked with ABC’s20/20to produce and write a major Billy
Graham profile.
The Saga of Cousins Jerry Lee Lewis, Jimmy Swaggart, and Mickey
Gilley
In 1935 and early 1936, three
cousins were born into tight-knit families in Ferriday, Louisiana. Rare piano
talent, strong parental relationships, the Pentecostal church, family struggle,
and a variety of musical influences worked together to produce men who
changed twentieth-century music and culture. The individual stories of these
three cousins illustrate their varied paths from small-town America to a world
stage. Woven together, the collective story becomes even more compelling and
amazing.
UNCONQUEREDis a story so unlikely that it would
not be believable if written as fiction. It tells of rock ‘n’ roll legend Jerry
Lee Lewis, televangelist Jimmy Swaggart, and country music star Mickey Gilley.
These very different men, raised in the same time and place, with similar
talents, were fated for entirely different destinies even as their lives would
always be profoundly intertwined. Born into poverty, each man, in his own way,
would become an iconic figure blessed with the ability to thrill and inspire.
The story's touchstones of
music, perseverance, and faith could wield such force only in the American
South. There, in the Louisiana lowlands’ Concordia Parish, their story began in
the midst of the Great Depression.
J.D. Davis will be giving away a FREE KINDLE!Fill out the Rafflecopter form below to
win!This giveaway is only open to U.S.
and Canada citizens.Deadline is June 1
and announced on June 2.If you are the
winner, contact Dorothy Thompson at thewriterslife (at) gmail.com or Tracee
Gleichner at tgleichner (at) gmail.com.You have 48 hours to reply.If
we do not hear from you in 48 hours, another winner will be selected.Thanks and good luck! http://www.rafflecopter.com" target="_blank" style="font:10px sans-serif;color:#999;width:100%;text-align:center;display:block;" id="rpow-a9f15725">a Rafflecopter giveaway
Book Description:
