The One Good Thing by Kevin Alan Milne * A Review

For as long as Halley Steen has known her husband Nathan, he has carried a handful of stones in his pocket. Each day he uses those stones to remind him to follow the Golden Rule, moving a stone from one pocket to the other with each act of kindness. So it's not unusual that Nathan stops to help a stranger on the side of the highway while on his way to his son's football game one Friday evening. But that one act will change all of their lives forever, when a car hydroplanes off the road, killing Nathan instantly.

As Halley and her children Ty and Alice struggle with their grief, Nathan's spiritual legacy lives on. A Facebook page appears, where countless stories about Nathan's selfless acts are shared. But among them is one that stands out, from a woman who says that Nathan saved her life. Neither Halley nor her children have ever heard of Madeline Zuckerman. But soon Halley discovers years of e-mails from this woman to her husband on his computer that refer to "our little girl." How could her husband have kept the secret of this other child for their entire marriage? Why had he lied to her? Was he not the man she thought he was?

Only thirteen-year-old Alice maintains unwavering faith in her father. She knows there's an explanation. When she sets out to find Madeline and learn the truth, she will start to unravel the complex story of The One Good Thing Nathan Steen did that had the greatest impact of all.

Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Center Street (March 12, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1455510084
ISBN-13: 978-1455510085

Kevin Milne was born in 1973 in Portland, Oregon. Although Oregon was always considered home, he also spent portions of his childhood in Virginia, Hawaii, and California. In 1991 he graduated from Sherwood High school, followed by undergraduate studies at Brigham Young University, then an MBA from Pennsylvania State University. As an adult he has lived in such varied places as Vermont, New Jersey, Nevada, Austria, and Croatia.

Since beginning his writing career in 2007, Milne's novels have been reproduced in 16 languages worldwide. His first published work, "The Paper Bag Christmas", was converted to a stage play in 2011.

Today, Kevin resides once more in his home town of Sherwood, Oregon. He and his wife, Rebecca, were married in Washington DC in 1995, and are the proud parents of five children.


MY REVIEW
  This is the second book I’ve read written by Kevin Alan Milne and it is just as good as or even better than the first. This book The One Good Thing is one of my favorites for 2013. Truly a book well written full of such love, compassion and an ending you won’t believe.
  I like how loving Nathan is and how he helps others and mostly his family. How he would do anything to help others. This book is about Nathan even though he dies before much of the book is written.
  How it is wonderful that his daughter whom is thirteen is the only one who believes in him and knows he wouldn’t lie to her and she trusts him completely.
  You will experience how each of the people in the story grow and change as the story moves along, but you will also think about how you would react if that happened to you. Would you believe and trust someone you have lived with and known for many, many years.
  You will find in The One Good Thing such love, acceptance, perseverance and full forgiveness really is.
  If you don’t read any other book this year read The One Good Thing. Kevin Alan Milne is a wonderful story teller and someone who will keep your attention from the first page to the last. I highly recommend this book for a book to keep and read often.

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I received my free copy from Sarah Reck at Center Street/HachetteBookGroup, for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

Goodbye to Yesterday by Wanda E. Brunstetter A Review

ABOUT GOODBYE TO YESTERDAY

Join Meredith and Luke Stoltzfus, an Amish couple who are faced with the greatest challenge of their young lives. Financial struggles. Arguments. A suspected pregnancy. A last-minute trip to Middlebury, Indiana. A deadly encounter at a Philadelphia bus station. Will their love and faith be enough to bring them back together again, against all odds?  Book 1 of the 6-part serial novel--The Discovery-A Lancaster County Saga.

Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Barbour Books (February 5, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1616260858
ISBN-13: 978-1616260859
Product Dimensions: 7.3 x 4.1 x 0.6 inches
Shipping Weight: 4 ounces

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Wanda Brunstetter is an award-winning romance novelist who has led millions of readers to lose their heart in the Amish life. She is the author of over 60 books with more than 6 million copies sold. Many of her books have landed on the top bestseller lists, including the New York Times, Publisher’s Weekly, CBA, ECPA, and CBD. Wanda is considered one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre, and her work has been covered by national publications, including Time Magazine and USA Today. Wanda’s books have been translated into four foreign languages.
http://www.wandabrunstetter.com/

MY REVIEW
   I’ve read several of Wanda E. Brunstetter’s books and have enjoyed them. Goodbye to Yesterday is an O.K. book but it is very short and doesn’t give you much to read and relate to as a story. You only learn a few things and then the book is over. I realize this is a 6 part book, but don’t feel it is worth reading the rest of the story. There isn’t enough meat {so to speak} in the story to keep my attention. They say short and sweet is best, but I don’t like a short story unless it gives you something to wait for in the next book.
  What they tell you in the synopsis Financial struggles. Arguments. A suspected pregnancy. A last-minute trip to Middlebury, Indiana. A deadly encounter at a Philadelphia bus station. Is just about the whole book.
  I like Amish books, but this one really isn’t what I expected or what I find interesting. So I really don’t recommend it.

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Thanks to Handlebar Marketing for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

Picture Perfect by Janice Thompson * A Review

ABOUT PICTURE PERFECT
 Feisty wedding photographer Hannah McDermott has dealt with her share of difficult brides. But none can compare to the ultimate Bridezilla she's dealing with now. Still, she's trying desperately to impress Bella Neeley, Galveston Island's most sought-after wedding planner, so she can take the top spot in Bella's list of recommended photographers--a spot currently occupied by her arch-rival, Drew Kincaid. What she doesn't count on, however, is falling head over heels for the competition.

With her contagious humor and cast of quirky characters, Janice Thompson gives readers more of the bridal business drama they want in a brand-new series all about those long-suffering people who make beautiful weddings happen. Readers are desperately waiting for more of Bella and this new series brings her back in a big way, while introducing new characters fans will love. Fans will laugh out loud as they experience this breezy and entertaining novel from a great storyteller.

Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Revell (February 15, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0800721527
ISBN-13: 978-0800721527

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Janice Thompson is a seasoned romance author and screenwriter. An expert at pulling the humor from the situations we get ourselves into, Thompson offers an inside look at the wedding business, drawing on her own experiences as a wedding planner. She is the author of the Weddings by Bella series and the Backstage Pass series. She lives in Texas.




MY REVIEW
  Picture Perfect by Janice Thompson is book one in the Weddings by Design series. I enjoyed reading it.
  Picture Perfect is a romantic contemporary that is also full of suspense and comedy. It’s not a book that is really suspenseful but has parts of suspense to keep you reading to find out how it ends.
  Hannah thinks she isn’t good enough to ever be first in anything. She always thinks others know more than her, are prettier than her and can get the things they want and need more than her. Hannah has some dear old friends and makes some dear new ones. She has grown up in a family that does the same things day in and day out. Never trying new things. Than the strangest things begin to happen.
  She gets to meet and gets to find out what her competitor in the photography business is like. Will they become friends and fierce enemies going for the same businesses?
  Hannah is Irish and in this book you get to read many Irish sayings and I love that.
  This is really a fun, light-hearted read that is very enjoyable. I think you will enjoy it and I recommend it.

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I received my free copy from Donna Hausler from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

Rebekah by Jill Eileen Smith * A Review

When her father dies and she is left in the care of her conniving brother Laban, Rebekah knows her life has changed forever. Her hope for the future is restored when she falls in love with her cousin Isaac, and their relationship starts strong. But marital bliss cannot last forever, and the birth of their twin sons marks the beginning of years of misunderstanding, disagreement, and betrayal. The rift between them grows wider and wider until it is surely too deep to be mended. And yet, with God all things are possible.

Join bestselling author Jill Eileen Smith as she fills in the blanks around the biblical women behind the men we know well. Her in-depth research and creative storytelling bring Rebekah's unique story alive with romance, heartache, and the power of forgiveness.

Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Revell (February 15, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0800734300
ISBN-13: 978-0800734305

Jill Eileen Smith is the author of Sarai, book one in the Wives of the Patriarchs series, and the bestselling author of the Wives of King David series. When she isn't writing, she enjoys spending time with her family--in person, over the webcam, or by hopping a plane to fly across the country. She can often be found reading, testing new recipes, grabbing lunch with friends, or snuggling one or both of her adorable cats. She lives with her family in southeast Michigan.
To learn more about Jill or for more information about her books, visit her website at www.jilleileensmith.com. You can also contact Jill at jill@jilleileensmith.com. She loves hearing from her readers.


MY REVIEW
   Jill Eileen Smith is a wonderful storyteller and has a great imagination. Her story of Rebekah from the account in the Bible is really interesting.  I probably would have had a few things different if I wrote the story, but everyone is different.
   I like how this book portrays Rebekah as independent and full of life and spunk.
  The love story between Rebekah and Isaac is very special and tender.  The scenes were described brilliantly. You feel like you are there.
  I think Rebekah is a book worth reading for enjoyment and also to help us understand how things can change in a marriage. The ending is excellent. I highly recommend this book.

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I received my free copy from Donna Hausler from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255

Growing Pains by Diann Hunt * A Review

"The end of summer is nearing, and Charlotte has an opportunity to go on a girls' weekend with Hannah. Charlotte just isn't sure, though, about taking time for herself. What if the family needs her while she's gone? Everyone may be pursuing their own interests - Bob has a part-time job at AA Tractor, Emily is babysitting to earn extra money, and Christopher has joined the church youth group - but Charlotte would worry away. How will the family show her it can stand on it's own two feet when she's away? Meanwhile, Sam starts classes at Central Community College, but it's not what he imagined. Will he be able to stick it out when the going gets tough? As the family grows together, they're all reminded that the answers to their troubles can come in unexpected ways." -

Hardcover

Publisher: Guideposts (2010)

Language: English

ASIN: B003TXCEBS

Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.6 x 1.1 inches

Shipping Weight: 1.6 pounds

　

I've been happily married forever, love my family, chocolate, my friends, chocolate, my dog, and, well, chocolate. When my husband and I were faced with the empty nest, I rolled up my sleeves and started writing. I entered a dream world, and I'm still dreaming--so please don't wake me.

God is first place in my life with family and, okay, chocolate following closely behind.

 

 

 

MY REVIEW

I really have enjoyed reading the series of Home to Heather Creek. This is number 23 in the series.

Charlotte and Bob are the grandparents of three children and their daughter dies so they raise the children. This series shows how a loving family who believes in God can bring you through when times are so very difficult.

Charlotte has a chance to go on a girls' weekend with Hannah {her best friend} Bob has a part-time job at AA Tractor, Emily is babysitting to earn extra money, and Christopher has joined the church youth group. While Sam starts classes at Central Community College, but gets caught into the credit card spending. You can just imiange how everything can go wrong with all of this going on.

If you get this series you will be so glad because you will see a family who love each other, who love the Lord and it is such a wholesome, well written series. One neat thing about this series is it is written by several different authors.

Very highly recommended.
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“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Sofia's Secret by Sharlene MacLaren * A Review

Scandal surrounds Sofia Rogers, a woman in her early twenties, when it becomes obvious she is pregnant and unmarried. Yet nobody knows the real story. And Sofia isn’t about to share it; she would rather bear the shame than face the threat of consequences. When Eli Trent, the new doctor in town, gets involved, the trouble escalates in the form of thievery, arson, and death threats. Nevertheless, Eli is determined to break down the wall of silence behind which Sofia hides her deep, dark secret. He is out to convince her she is not alone and to make her realize that trusting him—and her heavenly Father is the only thing that makes sense.

Paperback: 432 pages

Publisher: Whitaker House (October 1, 2012)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 160374214X

ISBN-13: 978-1603742146

Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.3 x 1.2 inches

Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounces

Born and raised in west Michigan, Sharlene MacLaren attended Spring Arbor University. She traveled married one of her childhood friends and together they raised two lovely daughters. Now happily retired after teaching elementary school for 31 years, "Shar" enjoys reading, writing, singing in the church choir and worship teams, traveling, and spending time with her husband, children, and precious grandson. Shar is a regular speaker for her local MOPS organization, is involved in KIDS' HOPE USA, a mentoring program for at–risk children, counsels young women in the Apples of Gold program, and is active in two weekly Bible studies. She and her husband, Cecil, live in Spring Lake, Michigan with their lovable collie, Dakota, and Mocha, their lazy fat cat.

MY REVIEW

I really, really loved this story Sofia’s Secret. It’s full of mystery, intrudge, romance, fear, just all of the good stuff.

Sofia is carrying such a heavy burden and she needs someone whom she can trust and whom will help her, but she doesn’t ask anyone for help or comfort. She and her young brother live together and Sofia is pregnant. She has a cleaning job and works at night so she can take care of her brother during the day, but she doesn’t have a car or anyway to get around except for a broken down bicycle. Sofia never complains, but is always working or helping others.

A new doctor comes to town and they meet when Sofia gets sick. He tries to help her, but she wants to be left alone as she always has been to take care of herself and her brother.

This book had me on the edge of my seat and reading as fast as possible. Hated when I came to the end.

Sofia’s Secret is a book that really tells you what forgiveness is all about. Also it is about judging others before we know the whole story. I promise if you get this book you will be well pleased.

I highly recommend it as a book to keep and read over and over.
　
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Thank you to Whitaker House for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255


 

Til the Last Drop by Marquis Boone * A Review

It is February of 2000, and Arthur and Valencia Todd and their twelve-year-old daughter, Lindsy, are living very happily-until Valencia receives a life-changing phone call. Life deals her a crisis that requires a miracle of biblical proportion.

Six months later, Valencia's life is still in shambles. As she walks on a path lined with grief, frustration, illness, and loneliness, Valencia is too frightened to seek help from doctors, on whom she quietly blames her mother's premature death. As she prays for answers, nothing seems to heal her persistent medical condition, prompting Valencia to plummet down a dark tunnel of despair. Desperate for answers, Valencia draws inspiration from the worn pages of her mother's Bible, fueled by an unyielding determination to find healing. But three years later, as she is led to the doors of a holistic center where she believes she will finally be helped, Valencia helplessly watches as her life disintegrates once again-completely unaware that the Holy Spirit is waiting to comfort her.

'Til the Last Drop is the inspirational story of one woman's journey to the truth as she learns to listen to her heart, never give up, and, above all, trust in God.

Paperback: 114 pages

Publisher: iUniverse.com (January 17, 2013)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1475971109

ISBN-13: 978-1475971101

Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.5 x 0.3 inches

Shipping Weight: 5.4 ounces

Marquis Boone is a pastor, motivational speaker, author, entrepreneur, mentor and spiritual advisor to a host of celebrities. Marquis is the Lead Pastor of Fresh Start Church which exists to revive, refresh, release and restore people back to God. He has been deemed one of America's most influential and talented pastors in his generation. His message of resurrection, healing and restoration is unparalleled and transcending cultural barriers within the church. Boone holds a Master of Arts in Christian Leadership and Masters of Divinity from Luther Rice University. He studied at World Harvest Bible College and completed a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a minor in Management from American InterContinental University.

MY REVIEW

Til The Last Drop is an O.K. book. I love books that show our Father in Heaven and Him talking to the angels or to Jesus about us here on earth. This book does that in which I really liked. I thought that part of the book was well written and full of love and compassion.

The things I didn’t like about Til The Last Drop were how the Valencia and Arthur didn’t get along after the tragedy and how they ended up leaving each other and divorcing. I know that happens in some cases, but I didn’t think it worked for this book. When things like this happen I feel husband and wife should and often do pull together.

Also the other thing I didn’t like about this story was the surprise ending. It was quite a let down and just left me feeling empty. I was really shocked at it and wish it were different. I think this could have been a really sweet story if it were told a little different.

It’s an O.K. book if you don’t have anything better to do.
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Thank you to the Author/Publicist for providing this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255