“The Best Summer of Our Lives” – that was the plan for four friends, Summer, Autumn, Snow, and Spring in the year of 1977. But it didn’t exactly go according to their plans. Life rarely does, right?
This book is a coming of age story of each of the four girls. They did a lot of growing, all of them. Their bond was stretched and tested a great deal, and even when they fought as teenagers, I liked seeing how they could work it out. Yes, things definitely changed for them, and they went through desert seasons, each of them. But you really could tell how it shaped and changed all of them.
To be honest, I did have a bit of a hard time connecting or relating to Summer. She wasn’t my favorite character, but at the same time, I could appreciate seeing how life and all its events affected and altered her. Her story is the focal point of this book, and she probably did have the biggest transformation testimony at the end.
I really liked Spring and her story particularly. And I related more to Snow and Autumn. They each complimented each other in great and necessary ways, and I did really like the Four Season’s unique friendship. They experienced a lot of ups and downs, but I really enjoyed seeing them together. And that includes Baby Season, Greta’s part in it too.
I’d call this an “Experience-book”. You know, one of those novels that you really experience more than just read. Where you live inside the pages, not just for a visit but as if you reside among the characters, their stories.
The summer of 1977 was a full and crazy one for the Seasons, but it was also really good and brought them each to the place they needed, I think.
I really like the author’s writing style so it was a pleasure to read another of her books!
I received a complimentary copy from the publishers. I was not required to write a positive review.
Escape to Cape Cod–where you just might find the secret to happiness
Callie Dixon had the world by its tail . . . until it all slipped away. Fired from her dream job after making a colossal mistake, she’s escaped to her aunt’s home on Cape Cod for time to bounce back. Except it isn’t a home, it’s an ice cream shop. And time isn’t going to help, because Callie’s bounce has up and left. There’s a reason she made that mistake at work and she’s struggling to come to terms with it.
Things go from bad to worse when Callie’s cousin Dawn drags her to a community class about the secret to happiness. Happiness is the last thing Callie wants to think about right now, but instructor Bruno Bianco–a curiously gloomy fellow–is relentless. He has a way of turning Callie’s thoughts upside down. Her feelings, too.
Could Bruno be right when he says that hitting rock bottom is the very best place to be? If so, how is that supposed to help her find exactly what–or who–has been missing all along?
My Thoughts:
It was a delight to return to the Cape Cod Creamery in this second novel in the series! Not only do we get to know a new character, Callie, but we also get to read more of Dawn and Marnie’s stories who we became familiar with in The Sweet Life.
I loved Callie. Her personality at first was…BIG. But as I kept reading, I discovered so much more, so much depth, realness, hurt, and beauty too.
Callie has gone through a lot – and has hidden a lot of pain from those around her so that she gives off the image she thinks is expected. She’s always thought herself a happy person, but when a series of events occur in her life, she starts to question if she really is as happy as she thought…and what is the secret to happiness?
I really enjoyed this novel, especially the aspect of how the make-up of our brains play a great deal into the happiness we search for. I loved the emphasis of looking for little good things throughout the day – could be anything. It was a good reminder. I love all things about the study of the brain and how it affects our personalities, etc. and so I was delighted to find that sort of insight in this novel.
The novel gave me food for thought, but also enjoyment as I got to know each of the characters more deeply. Little Leo was still as precious as he was in the first book, and I loved getting to know Bruno Bianco as well.
Dawn could be a little strong-headed at times, but that was true to her personality for sure, and I appreciated seeing her relationship with her cousin Callie transform and learn from each other.
The faith strand in this book is light, but present. It also deals with illness, MS mentions, and depression. I thought each of these subjects were handled very well.
All in all, I really enjoyed this story!
I received a complimentary copy from the publishers. I was not required to give a positive review.
Michael Sullivan is a talented lyricist and a decent guitarist, but since he was kicked out of his band (and his apartment), he’s not sure he’ll ever get a record deal. Living with his loser uncle in a beat-up trailer and working a dead-end job, Michael has little reason to hope for a better future. Until the invitation for a swanky New Year’s Eve party shows up in the mailbox. It’s for his uncle, with whom he shares his name, but his uncle is going out of town . . .
On the effervescent night of December 31, 1989–as the Berlin Wall is coming down, the Soviet Union is inching toward democracy, and anything seems possible–Michael will cross paths with the accomplished and enigmatic young heir to a fading musical dynasty, forever altering both of their futures.
Award-winning novelist Erin Bartels enchants with this story of two lonely souls who have exactly what the other one needs–if they could simply turn their focus from what is ending to what is just beginning.
My Thoughts:
The writing was beautiful and the characters were messy and real. I loved that. I loved how the novel was told through Micahel’s point of view, and I also loved how his perception of life slowly changed throughout the course of the story. He was pretty hopeless at times, had a naturally negative inclination in how he viewed life, but by the end…it had shifted, and I thought it happened naturally and poignantly. The deep way music was at the center of the novel was lovely. It was varied in its tone, and added so much depth to it all. Main characters Michael and Natalie both wrote some of their own music, and what was so fun is that those songs were included in the novel – they weren’t just mentioned or eluded to, but written out, and I loved the creativity of that. The spiritual thread wasn’t too strongly present. God was mentioned a couple times, and the message of hope was present, but I’d say the faith message as a whole was definitely more of a subtle undertone. I personally would have liked to have seen it be more integral to the story. That aside, “Everything is Just Beginning” was an enjoyable novel and I’m glad for the opportunity to have read it!(Also side note here about the cover – the texture is so cool! The guitar strings stick up and I love that!) I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
In 1942, Evie Farrow is used to life on Ocracoke Island, where every day is the same–until the German U-boats haunting their waters begin to wreak havoc. And when special agent Sterling Bertrand is washed ashore at Evie’s inn, her life is turned upside down. While Sterling’s injuries keep him inn-bound for weeks, making him even more anxious about the man he’s tracking, he becomes increasingly intrigued by Evie, who seems to be hiding secrets of her own.
Decades earlier, in 1914, Englishman Remington Culbreth arrives at the Ocracoke Inn for the summer, but he doesn’t count on falling in love with Louisa Adair, the innkeeper’s daughter. When war breaks out in Europe, and their relationship is put in jeopardy, will their love survive?
As Evie and Sterling work to track down an elusive German agent, they unravel mysteries that go back a generation. The ripples from the Great War are still rocking their lives, and it seems yesterday’s tides may sweep them all into danger again today.
Bestselling and award-winning author Roseanna M. White whisks you away to two periods fraught with peril in this sweeping and romantic dual-time tale.
My Thoughts:
“Yesterday’s Tides” follows two timelines, one story set in World War One, and the other set during World War Two. They are connected by shared family, different generations, and the stories weave together in a beautiful way. As always, the author’s writing style is superbly done, and flows seamlessly.I enjoyed both timelines, but the WWI story was my favorite. I thought that Lousia and Rem’s story truly jumped off the pages and drew me to the heart of their story particularly. But oh the frustration! Haha, it was well written, but there were definite moments where I wanted to shake the characters or yell at them even though they are fictional. XD I also loved how many elements from the author’s other books were woven into this novel in both timelines. It was fun to see familiar characters! There were times when I did have a bit of a difficult time switching between the two stories, but I do think that is because I’ve always had a bit of a hard time with dual timeline stories in general. The characters were written with beauty and care, as I’ve come to expect from author Roseanna M White. I’m excited to share this novel with my sister, who is currently devouring all of the author’s works as fast as she can.^.^
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Review copy from the publisher as apart of the Launch Team
My rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars
About the Book:
My Thoughts:
I so enjoyed this novel! Author Kate Breslin is very talented at writing a story that is certain to capture a reader’s attention.
We were first introduced to the main characters Marcus and Clare in the novel, Not By Sight, but we get so much more of an in depth look into their lives and story with In Love’s Time.
It has been a while since I’ve read “Not By Sight” so admittedly some of their details are a bit foggy in my mind, but I was able to follow along pretty well in this book, and I loved getting to know the characters anew.
The plot is captivating, and written so well. Set in WWI, there is plenty of intrigue and mystery, wondering which characters you can trust.
While the reality of amnesia would be quite terrible, I always find it interesting to read about and see how it plays out in novels, so that aspect intrigued me too.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed In Love’s Time, adore the author’s writing style, and valued the poignant messages woven throughout the novel. Definitely recommend for fans of historical novels with great depth and characters!
I received a complimentary copy of the novel from the publishers. I was not required to write a positive review and all thoughts expressed are entirely my own.
When concert pianist Vivienne Mourdant’s father dies, he leaves to her the care of an adult ward she knew nothing about. The woman is supposedly a patient at Hurstwell Asylum. The woman’s portrait is shockingly familiar to Vivienne, so when the asylum claims she was never a patient there, Vivienne is compelled to discover what happened to the figure she remembers from childhood dreams.
The longer she lingers in the deep shadows and forgotten towers at Hurstwell, the fuzzier the line between sanity and madness becomes. She hears music no one else does, receives strange missives with rose petals between the pages, and untangles far more than is safe for her to know. But can she uncover the truth about the mysterious woman she seeks? And is there anyone at Hurstwell she can trust with her suspicions?
Fan-favorite Joanna Davidson Politano casts a delightful spell with this lyrical look into the nature of women’s independence and artistic expression during the Victorian era–and now.
My Thoughts:
“Inside every quiet person is something very big, and whoever has the patience to gently coas it out will be rewarded with its splendid display of beauty.”
The author manages to write yet another breathtaking tale of beauty, hope, and light in the darkness.
I wish I had the time to read this astounding novel over a shorter period of time, but even so, I truly enjoyed The Lost Melody, and there were so many facets to the story as well as the characters. So many spots where I took a moment to pause and think, and so many quotes I had to mark to remember.
The music theme throughout the novel was utterly lovely and added such a fascinating history as well. There were many times of heartbreak and life in the Victorian-aged asylums could be difficult to read about at times, but again, the author expertly wove in the message of hope and light in that darkness, and it was masterfully done.
“Music is not a cure for broken bodies- you shouldn’t expect that – but a balm for broken souls.”
The Lost Melody is a stunning novel but in soul and cover, and it was a pleasure to read.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publishers. I was not required to write a positive review, and all expressed are my own.
I’m pleased to be joining the Blog Tour for “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear” by A.M. Heath with a spotlight post! Dont miss out on the exciting giveaway, as well as the ebook sale for book one!
Book Description:
Can a cozy inn at Christmas transform the troubled hearts seeking refuge there?
Pregnant and alone, Alissa Hill moved to Garland, Tennessee to help at her aunt’s inn. When a guest brings her hidden past to the inn’s door, she must decide whether to face it or continue to run.
A career-ending injury ruined Stephen Powell’s life plans. Now a former NFL kicker, he’s searching for a new purpose while recovering at the Cheery Inn. But those at the inn may offer him much more than he expects.
Sparks fly when Alissa and Stephen meet, but secrets and regrets may keep them apart unless they can learn to forgive and move beyond their brokenness.
Read this heartwarming Christmas romance today!
Purchase Link:
Enter to win a Christian Reader’s Cozy Packet! Prize pack includes a signed copy of It Came Upon a Midnight Clear, a stack of other Christian Christmas reads, and … a little something extra to round out your cozy day of reading.
*Open to continental U.S. Residents only.
Grab Book 1 of the Christmas in Garland series for .99 this week!
About the Author:Â
Besides being an Indie Author, I’m a wife, mother of four, ladies’ Sunday School teacher, sweet tea drinker, history fanatic, romantic, bubbly, lover of broccoli, and a retired cake decorator who has a soft spot for Christmas trees, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.
What I’m not is a laundress (or at least not one who keeps up very well), a duster, tall, or patient in a doctor’s office.
Author Links: Whether you’re on social media or not, you can ensure that you never miss one of my sales, giveaways, or new releases by signing up for my newsletter. I’ll send you a direct link to your email anytime something big happens. http://eepurl.com/dDbVNz
I recently had the lovely opportunity of reading the Shadows Over Whitman series by Gina Holder, and today I am sharing my reviews for each book. If you enjoy well written books about related characters and great faith messages, I certainly recommend this series!
About the Book:
She’s looking for her birth mother. He’s looking for a thief. Will each find what they are searching for?
Paige McDonald, an avid book collector, discovers a forgotten Bible. When the Bible reveals that she was abandoned on the steps of a fire department, she begins a journey to search for her birth mother.
Hamilton Bryant, a Patrol Officer, has sworn off romance, reserving his passion for the town he’s sworn to protect. When Paige’s arrival in Whitman coincides with random thefts and threats against the mayor, Hamilton is compelled to investigate the newcomer.
When the danger gets personal, can Paige save her reputation before she ends up in jail for crimes she didn’t commit?
My Review:
“No Greater Love” is a great start of this series, and I was easily brought into its pages.Â
Well-written, I was especially impressed with the level of mystery and danger that was portrayed in such a good amount. Really, the story was all very nicely balanced, and I really enjoyed getting to know these characters. Paige McDonald is searching for her birth mom, which turns out to be rather complicated. Meanwhile, her own past threatens to get her in further trouble, and when her paths cross with Whitman’s policeman, her life becomes a little more complicated. The faith strand was also really well done and an important element of the plot, which I greatly appreciated. Religion never was something Paige pursued, but God pursued her and wrapped her in His enduring love, which was a beautiful message.
Looking forward to continuing this series!
About the Book:
She’s running for governor. He’s a pastor. Will they risk their lives to keep a secret?
Annie Staten, now known as Kathleen Phillips, has dreamed of pursuing a political career and following in her father’s footsteps. But Richard was a hated man during his tenure as governor and now his enemies will stop at nothing to prevent his daughter from winning the election.
Ryan Whitestone has loved Annie since high school, but his heart is broken by the woman she has become. When the daughter she gave up for adoption comes back into her life, can he help her heal from her pain and remind her of who she used to be?
Will Kathleen be able to forgive herself, put the past behind her, and find love again?
The continuing story of No Greater Love.
My Review:
I really enjoyed reading this next book in the Shadows Over Whitman series, and seeing how it continued after book one left off. A lot of the story themes were continued and resolved, and we get to see more from Katherine’s perspective, and a little of what her motives were for her often hurtful actions towards her family members and those she loved. I’m not really a huge fan of politics and novels involving politics, so I would say the first book in this series was more of my speed than this one, however I did still really like the story, and once again, the mystery element was well written, and I was eager to see how it all transpired and worked together in the end.The theme of forgiveness was truly beautiful and so heartfelt. I loved and appreciated that. Katherine was a hard character, but I think that made her transformation even more touching and inspiring. I also really liked Ryan’s perspective thorughout the novel and what that added to the story. He still loved the woman he fell in love with, but also had to learn what it meant to truly love who she was now too. I thought that was a good touch to the story. And now I’m all the more excited to see what the third book holds!
About the Book:
he’s a modern day damsel. He’s her self-appointed knight. Who will rescue whom?
I think this one might be my favorite of the series! I was already anticipating getting to know more of Kylie’s story from what we learned in the first two books in the Shadows Over Whitman series, so it was a treat to dive in. Yes, Kylie is very trusting, maybe too much so at times, but she had such a tender and giving heart. I really liked how that was highlighted throughout the novel. The mystery of the bad guy continued in Grace Immeasurable, and it was great to see how it all tied together in the end. There was a fair bit of danger and suspense but once again it was at a decent balance that never felt like too much or anything. The romance was more on the subtle side but still very tastefully done and I thought it was a very sweet addition. As with the first two, the faith strand was the most important part of the story and I loved that. It was a beautiful message.
All all, this series was a delightful experience, and I enjoyed getting to know these characters! Â
After an accident brings businessman Eric Larson and eccentric Eunice Parker together, the unlikely pair spend more time with each other than they would like while facing challenges beyond what they imagined. As Eunice comes to accept her terminal illness, they both wrestle with an important question:Â What matters most when the end is near?
My Thoughts:
This is a beautiful and touching novel. Well written, it wasn’t hard to become involved in the story at once. This was my first time reading a novel by the author, but I appreciate her writing style and would like to go back and read her previous books now.
I loved all the characters and all of their quirks. Cinderella the chicken was also one of my favorite aspects of this story, and I would love to see some of the scenes from this book come to life. XD
Eric and Eunice are very different characters, and yet their lives become connected and they form a peculiar but very endearing friendship. What I particularly appreciated about each of them was their realness. Eric was very egoistic and shallow at first. Eunice also had her flaws. And yet…they were so genuinely human, and they both grew so much through this story in a realistic way. I loved that.
Where the Blue Sky Begins does deal with a heavy topic of the prospect of dying, but it is dealt with with care and love, and there was still himor woven into the pages at the right amount. It made me both think and laugh in equal measures.
And the ending – that was so cute. ^.^
Very glad for the opportunity to read this novel. This book was provided courtesy of Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews for my honest opinion.
After a summer of successful pirate-treasure hunting, Lady Emily Scofield and her friends must hide the unprecedented discoveries they’ve made, thanks to the betrayal of her own family. Horrified by her brother, who stops at nothing to prove himself to their greedy father, Emily is forced to take a stand against her family–even when it means being cut off entirely.
Bram Sinclair, Earl of Telford, is fascinated with tales of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table–an interest he’s kept mostly hidden for the last decade. But when a diary is unearthed on the islands that could lead to a secret artifact, Bram is the only one able to piece the legends together.
As Bram and Emily seek out the whereabouts of the hidden artifact, they must dodge her family and a team of archeologists. In a race against time, it is up to them to decide what makes a hero worthy of legend. Is it fighting valiantly to claim the treasure . . . or sacrificing everything in the name of selfless love?
My Thoughts:
The author does it again – creates another absolutely marvelous novel that I can’t get enough of. Worthy of Legend was beautiful. From its characters to its plot and the faith message in between, it was all displayed in such a lovely manner, and it was the perfect conclusion to this fabulous series. Lady Emily really came into her own in this novel, and I absolutely loved seeing her flourish and discover her own strength, even when it looked different than her friends, different than what she thought strength meant. And Lord Telford. What a loveable protective character in all his standoffishness XD In my review for the second book in this series, I stated how much I loved Sheridan, and now I don’t know how I’d choose between Sheridan and Bram if I had to. Good thing we readers don’t generally have to choose between beloved book boyfriends, right? ;) There were so many excellent lessons to gather from the pages, and I tabbed so many spots. The historical side of the novel was also exemplary – to be honest, the legend of King Arthur was never one that particularly appealed to me, but I actually loved how it played a part in WoL! Especially in regards to Bram, that was a fun touch. Before I finish this review, I also want to add how I so enjoyed Tommie and Enyon’s story told among the pages too; they were so sweet, especially how constant Enyon was. There was plenty of adventure to be had among the pages too, with lots of treasure hunting. Truly a fabulous book!
I received a copy of the book from the publishers as a part of the launch team. I was not required to write a positive review, and all thoughts expressed are my own.
Gods Peculiar Treasure Rae 