“Wooing Cadie McCaffrey” by Bethany Turner – Review!

I am so embarressed by how late this post is. Among all the shuffle and trials life has been throwing at my family and I lately, I somehow missed posting this even though I wrote the review immediately after finishing this amazing book. So I am very sorry, Bethany, for my delay! But at long last, here is my review…

 

“Wooing Cadie McCaffrey” by Bethany Turner

Christian Rom-Com

Review copy through the author/publisher as apart of the launch team

My rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

About the Book:

After four years with her boyfriend, Cadie McCaffrey is thinking of ending things. Convinced Will doesn’t love her in the “forever” way she loves him, Cadie believes it’s time for her to let him go before life passes her by. When a misunderstanding leads to a mistake, leaving her hurt, disappointed, and full of regret, she finally sends him packing.

But for Will, the end of their relationship is only the beginning of his quest to figure out how to be the man Cadie wanted him to be. With the dubious guidance of his former pro-athlete work friends and tactics drawn from Cadie’s favorite romantic comedies, Will attempts to win her back. It’s a foolproof plan. What could possibly go wrong?

Bethany Turner is back with more of the heart and humor readers love. Anyone who enjoys a good romance or binges romantic comedies on Netflix will devour this delightful story.

My Thoughts:

Is it really over? Bethany Turner sure knows how to write a spectacular romance book that gives you all the happy-tingly feels! Seriously, that ending…I just want to spend a bunch of time awwwwing at it all.

The story is adorable. Really truly it is. But it’s not just adorable. It’s full of real-life struggles, and real-life mistakes and how said mistakes affect life, and yet bring us closer to God through His forgiveness. That message was very sweetly and aptly portrayed in “Wooing Cadie McCaffrey”.

The characters, Cadie, and Will, and Darby, and Kevin, and Ellis (do you want me to go on?), were all so much more than just characters. I loved them all so very much. Will Whitaker is absolutely amazing, and I while I know where Cadie was coming from, I also don’t know how she could even possibly entertain thoughts of resisting him after all he did to show he cared. Okay, as I said, I do understand where she was coming from. Totally. Their misunderstanding was real. But Will is such a sweetheart, and I certainly wouldn’t turn him away if he showed up at my door reenacting favorite rom-com movies. XD Adorable.

There is sex mentioned frequently in this book. And while in some cases that might have been a “turn off” for me, this wasn’t. It certainly wasn’t glorified, nor was it explicitly shown or talked about – it was real life. And I must say, I am incredibly impressed how the author handled it all – with such grace and tact, and real-ness. Nothing about this book felt ‘dirty’ or ‘inappropriate’ in any way to me. I know every reader is different though, which is why I thought I should mention that this book does involve that subject. But trust me when I say, it is all handled extremely well. And really, I don’t think this story could have been what it is without that element, because it shaped the situation. While what happened may not be my ‘normal’, I know it is normal, and seeing how it affected the various characters was realistic, and again, handled so well.

I loved all the movie references, even if I haven’t seen a couple of the ones mentioned. Just knowing what they were was an extreme delight, and it was just such a fun element!

Also, I simply cannot leave this review off without touching on the cover…Oh.My.Goodness.!! It is adorable!! So, so beautiful, and meaningful, and stunning. Definitely a favorite. <3

I love this author’s writing style. So very much. Waiting for her next novel is going to be hard!

“I’m just saying I’m doing this because I love her, and I happen to think you’re what’s best for her. And clearly you can’t handle it on your own.” -Darby to Will

“I researched. Believe me. You haven’t known a wild Friday night unless you’ve been at Kevin Lamont’s house watching 27 Dresses, and Odell Beckham and Alex Rodrigues show up, because Kev forgot to let them know a cocktail party had been rescheduled.” 

Darby gasped, but it quickly turned into a laugh. “That didn’t happen!”

“Oh, I assure you, it did. But it worked out okay. With Alex there, we breezed through Maid in Manhattan and The Wedding Planner too.” 

“Jesus Calling” Fabric Cover Edition ~ Book Review

Jesus Calling Daily Devotional

Sarah Young

My rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

 

My Thoughts:

This edition of the beloved devotional, Jesus Calling, is stunning! I am in love with the Jesus Calling devotionals, and I especially love the larger versions which include the whole verses at the end of each devo instead of just the verse references in the smaller sized devotionals.

The content is fantastic, as I’ve stated before in past reviews, so I will primarily be focusing on the outside of this edition. Which is beautiful, truly! I love the fabric feel to the hardcover, and the design is lovely. It is simple yet captivating, and I think it compliments the amazingness of the inside very well!

I highly recommend these devotionals, and definitely love this edition!

I received a complimentary copy for the purpose of review; all opinions expressed are my own.

 

 

“A Hero for Miss Hatherliegh” by Carolyn Miller ~ Book Review

“A Hero For Miss Hatherliegh” by Carolyn Miller

A Regency Brides: Daughters of Aynsley Novel

Review copy through Kregel Publications

My Rating: 3.5 stars out of 5 Stars

 

About the Book:

Can a proper noble lady find a future with a fossil-hunting man of faith?

As the daughter of Viscount Aynsley, Caroline Hatherleigh knows every rule of society–and she’s always followed them precisely. But when she visits south Devonshire and encounters a fossil-hunting scientist and his sister, her assumptions about what is right are shaken. Questions she has never considered about the importance of friendship and faith suddenly confront her–and her comfortable understanding about how the world works is thrown off balance. What if God wants to be the center of her life, rather than merely a social obligation?
Gideon Kirby loves science, and hunting down proof of past lives is a joy he won’t willingly give up. But his scientific leanings are being challenged both by his personal beliefs and by local smugglers in the Devonshire countryside. And every day his sister’s illness becomes more desperate, her care growing more demanding. Adding a viscount’s daughter to the mix is a complication Gideon never expected–especially since he must stay far away from this young woman he’s falling for in order to protect his beloved sister’s secret.
When a mysterious stranger visits the village, that secret will be exposed, no matter how Gideon fights. Then tragedy strikes in a smugglers’ cave. And the threat of scandal may lead to broken hearts and passionless propriety. Will the shaky bond these two have nurtured be strong enough to overcome their differences–or will the trust they’ve withheld from each other tear three lives apart?

*

*

My Thoughts:

 

“A Hero for Miss Hatherleigh” is a regency novel with a very definite Jane-Austen-book tone to it. This was my frist introduction to a novel by Carolyn Miller, and I found her voice of writing to be quite similar to a Jane Austen novel. It took me a bit to adjust to at first, but once I got into the novel, it was pleasant.

I am a fan of the Regency era, and that was depicted very well – I loved the setting and time period, and found it to be descriptive without too bogged down.

The main hero character was unique when it came to profession – I haven’t read a book where the main character was a undergroundologist on the hunt for fossils. That was quite interesting! I will admit that I didn’t care for the heroine, Caroline, at first, but as she progressed, she became more likeable.

Personally, I didn’t greatly connect to this book, but I do think that is due to when/how I read it. Had life been a little more even-keel and calm when I read it, I might have delved deeper into it.

I did appreciate the faith-aspect. That was very clear and evident, and well-done. I was quite happy about that, and thought that aspect refreshing.

There was a scene towards the end that felt very…well, unrealistic, and over-dramatized. It’s one of my least favorite troupes in fiction, but I know it could be another person’s favorite.

So while I didn’t deeply connect with this book, I don’t blame the story at all, and am quite sure it will be a favorite of many! I plan to continue on with this series, and look forward to reading more by this author! :)

.

.

.

I received a review copy of this book from the author/publisher; all opinions in my review are my own. 

“Weddings, Willows, and Revised Expectations” by V.Joy Palmer ~ Book Review

“Weddings, Willows, and Revised Expectations” by V. Joy Palmer

Review copy from the author as apart of the launch team

My rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

About the Book:

 

Seventeen years after being orphaned, Apryl Burns and her twin sister Courtney have their own expectations for life. While Courtney continues to shine at everything, Apryl holds fast to the mantra that as long as her potato chip stash remains intact, then she’ll be fine.
But when their beloved grandmother ends up injured and unable to manage her struggling antique store, Courtney makes it their mission to revamp the business and save what’s left of their family’s legacy. Despite rampant doubts in her abilities, Apryl finds herself trapped under the weight of family loyalty as they transition to a wedding venue decorating service. Soon she’s forced to ask (translation: blackmail) their grandmother’s renter/handyman, Chance McFarland, for help, an arrangement that is made even worse by the fact that Chance is her former (ahem, and current) crush.
Chance knows a few dozen things about family loyalty, which is why he begrudgingly agrees to Apryl’s insane plan. While Apryl claims they’re archenemies, the girl Chance only glimpsed in their teens starts to emerge, stealing what remains of his heart. 
But expectations are a powerful thing. Amidst the glamorous weddings and swaying willows, can those old expectations be revised into something new?

 

 

My Thoughts:

 

This was a truly fun and enjoyable book. I really liked Apryl, and Chance was amazing.

I also liked how we got to see Courtney’s story play out as well – this wasn’t just a one-character’s-story book. Yes, Apryl was the primary ‘star’ but we got to know Courtney as well, and that aspect was really nice! Having Chance’s POV in there was a great piece of the book too!

Twins, Apryl and Courtney take over their grandmother’s antique business while she recovers in the hospital. To keep the business from failing, they revamp it into a wedding decorating venue, and I loved this clever aspect of the story. It was unique, and fun, and I loved seeing each wedding that they decorated come together and how each one painted a vivid picture for me to see in my mind’s eye.

Returning to the topic of Apryl and Chance though…  I loved these two so much! They could be oh-so frustrating (though I can see why XD) but they were so fantastic, and quickly became beloved characters to me! And I loved the faith message in this book. I could relate to Apryl’s feeling like a failure and not worth it, etc. but the truth she received at the end was beautiful. And same goes for Chance’s journey! I loved how each grew separately AND together.

I was curious to see if this book would have some sections that felt a little too over-the-top witty like I found the first book to sometimes contain, but the included sarcasm matched Apryl’s character perfectly, and I loved it! (Which is not to say that I didn’t like the first book – I very much did! You can find my review on goodreads.)

Apryl really had a vivid character and I so enjoyed getting to know her, and Chance too. (I may have developed a little crush on him myself. And also, this book made me really want potato chips….).

All in all, a delightful story! Looking forward to more from this author!

Quotes:

 

“Yeah, he’d always liked Batman.”

*

“I’m not perfect either, much to my dismay. I’ve tried to be. I’ve tried to have the perfect grades, the perfect job, the perfect life. I can’t do it. Our love will not be perfect. It will be filled with mistakes. But perfection isn’t love, it’s a cage. And with everything that’s happened with Gram and the shop, my identity can’t hang on my career, my accomplishments, and that elusive perfection. It’s defined by God and the way I love.”

 

*

*

*

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publishers. I was not required to write a positive review.  

 

 

 

 

Alice in Wonderland BookSleeve by LukieDukie ~ Review

 

 

Alice in Wonderland Book Sleeve

Made by Lukie Dukie// Etsy Shop

 

This booksleeve is so soft. Possibly even the softest I’ve ever felt!   I kind of want to be a book myself ;)

This sleeve is flexible and durable – the fabric is strong, as is the sewing, and yet it is still not stiff or stuck in one place.

I love the size, and the pen loop on the side is a great addition. I like keeping notes and recording quotes of my current read, but the thought of a pen potentially leaking its ink onto the books pages makes me cringe! So a loop on the side is a great solution, not to mention handy. ;)

My favorite part of this sleeve, by far, is the cushyness of it. As I’ve said, it is super soft and I love that! And of course, the Alice in Wonderland print itself is incredibly endearing, and so whimsical! Definitely in love with this sleeve and excited to have this brilliant piece in my collection!

A huge thank you to the owner/creator of the shop – she was a delight to work with!

(Fun fact: “If Only It Were Yesterday” by A.M. Heath is a sort of Alice-in-Wonderland retelling <3)

“A Return of Devotion” by Kristi Ann Hunter ~ Book Review

I hate that this is being posted so late!!! I loved this book so much – it will definitely be included in my favorites of 2019 – and so I am embarrassed that it has taken me this long to post my review. But at long last, here it is! <3

 

 

“A Return of Devotion” by Kristi Ann Hunter

Book Two in the Haven Manor Series

Review copy from the publisher/author as apart of the Launch Team

My rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

About the Book:

Daphne Blakemoor was content living in her own secluded world for the last twelve years. She had everything she needed—loved ones, a true home, and time to indulge her imagination. But when ownership of the estate where she works as a housekeeper passes to a new marquis with an undeniable connection to her past, everything she’s come to rely upon is threatened.

William, Marquis of Chemsford’s main goal in life is to be the exact opposite of his father. Starting a new life in the peace and quiet of the country sounds perfect . . . until his housekeeper turns his life upside down.

Both Daphne and William have spent their lives hiding from the past. Can they find the courage to face their deepest wounds and, perhaps, forge a new path for the future together? 

My Thoughts:

This was fantastic. Truly. I love this series. :) Going into this one, I wasn’t sure if I’d relate to main character Daphne, just because in the previous book, Kit had been my favorite. It was so silly of me to wonder this, because I not only related to Daphne, I bonded with her. I share so many of her struggles, and to be perfectly honest, there were so many times during the reading of this that I almost had to remind myself she wasn’t actually real because I was tempted to write her a letter saying I relate XD The struggles with fantasizing and daydreaming that she dealt with was so relatable to me. And how when things actually happened in real life, it was harder – and scarier – to deal with than the “harmless” imaginings. But oh how many troubles the fantasizing gets us into. I still need to continue to remind myself to live right here in the present, just as life is.

The truths she discovered, and the journey she took was inspiring and realistic, and so beautiful. I just really, really loved Daphne.

And William. Of course we cannot forget William! He was great as well. Snobbish at first (oh William), but his character grew so much and he was a sweetheart. I absolutely love these two!!

Really, all of the characters deserve their own paragraphs of gushing over them, but I don’t know that we have space or time for that. ;) Jess….Benedict…Sarah…Eugenia…Reuban…I think you get the gist. Such three dimensional characters that you cannot help but adore.

And the story itself was so well done! I loved every minute of it. And waiting for the next book is going to be so hard. :P

Excellent writing, amazing characters, superb plot, and an ending that leaves you wanting more! definitely recommend this series :)

Quotes:

 

“Daphne didn’t handle strangers very well most of the time, and she certainly wasn’t managing this one.” 

*

“You know,” Jess finally said, “it’s okay to not be good at something. It’s okay to ask for help.” 

*

“‘Be strong and of good courage,'” Daphne said from memory as she looked around at the three upturned faces. “‘Fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, He it is that doth go with thee; He will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.'” 

*

“Mrs. Brightmoor sank further into the woodwork. She actually managed to blend her faded orange printed muslin partially into the glaringly red wallpaper. It was a rather amazing feat.” 

*

“I like people. Well, I like helping them. They make me nervous unless I have a particular task to do.” 

*

“Daphne frowned again. What good was escaping into one’s imagination if the world’s problems came along for the ride?” 

 

NKJV, Sequin Sparkle and Change Bible ~ Review

NKJV, Sequin Sparkle and Change Bible

Copy sent for review through the BookLook program

 

Description of this Bible:

The Sequin Sparkle and Change Bible is sure to be a hit with girls! This fabulous material is on everything from pillows to T-shirts. The sequins change color right before your eyes. Girls will love the design and will want to carry this Bibles with them everywhere!

This Sequin Sparkle and Change Bible: Silver and Gold NKJV features sequins that change color depending on which way your child swipes. It’s double the fun! This Bible is perfect for kids ages 6 to 10 to take to Sunday school, read with the family, or study on their own.

The accurate and reliable New King James Version also contains beautifully illustrated insert pages in a style that will delight children’s imaginations and include topics such as:

Bible timeline
information about Jesus
Journaling for favorite Bible verses
Bible maps
Study helps such as how to study the Bible and how to pray
Articles to build a child’s faith, including How Do I Know Jesus Loves Me?, Bible Verses to Know, Knowing Jesus Better
Your little girl will love her Sequin Sparkle and Change Bible!

 

 

My Thoughts: (Please note, I am reviewing the design and extra’s of this Bible, not the spiritual content, as obviously that is perfect. ^.^)

I am a big fan of the sequins that change when you run your hand along them. I have several pillows in this design and I can’t get enough of them, so when I saw a Bible with the cover being sequin-changing, I knew I wanted to try it!

The sequined part on the cover isn’t as large as I had thought it would be, but it is still very pretty and fun to play with. The sequins were very stiff and hard to move at first, but once I worked at it a bit, they loosened up and flip pretty easy. However, they do not lay completely flat one way, so many of the sequins stick up.

Inside, there are several delightful extra pages. Timelines, pages to write notes or favorite Bible verses, and also little snippets such as “Why should I Read The Bible” and “How Do I Know Jesus Loves Me?”, etc.  The style of this edition definitely seems geared toward a younger set of readers. With the sequins on the cover and the fun illustrations on the inside, this Bible is very pretty, and I think it would make a great Bible for any pre-teen or teen girl!