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


 

Winter's End by Rebekah Lyn* A Review

Musician Michelle Burton just had the best night of her life. Her band Tangled Web opened for Wonderland in downtown Orlando and the crowd loved them. Too excited to sleep she makes a fateful decision to go to work early. The best night of her life turns into the worst day of her life. Nearby, at boutique Hotel Lago, Stephen Longbottom, acting concierge manager, is anxiously awaiting the arrival of the board of directors for Silken Pleasures, a multimillion dollar company based in New York and specializing in high end cosmetics, fragrances and lingerie. Their incessant demands before they even arrive are driving him to distraction. Meanwhile Lizzie Reynolds, his boss is on a romantic ski trip in Vermont leaving him to manage his first solo event. Hope, forgiveness and love are an integral message throughout the book and like a fine tapestry the threads of God’s master plan for the character’s lives are woven into a fabric of great storytelling, conflict and humor. Readers who came to know and love the characters of Summer Storms will enjoy catching up with Lizzie, Stephen, Michelle, Jeffrey and Ian.

Paperback: 332 pages

Publisher: Real Life Publishing (December 5, 2012)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0615734774

ISBN-13: 978-0615734774

Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 0.8 inches

Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds

Rebekah is a Christian with a heart for new beginnings. She is a Florida native and a graduate of Jacksonville University, Jacksonville, Fl. A love of history, research and journaling led naturally to a passion for writing. She enjoys travel and has traveled extensively across the United States and Canada as well as Europe and the Caribbean. Her reading taste run from the classics to light fiction. When she is not working or writing, she enjoys cooking,baking and sharing recipes on her blog, http://rebekahlynskitchen.wordpress.com

Her current works include, Summer Storms and Winter’s End the first two books in The Seasons of Faith series and Julianne the first book in The Coastal Chronicle series.

Rebekah currently resides in Florida along with her "attack" cat, Mia. They would enjoy meeting with you on her Facebook page, www.facebook.com/authorRebekahLyn

　

MY REVIEW

Another intruging story by Rebekah Lyn. This is the second book in the Seasons of Faith series. It’s called Winter’s End and I just love it. It was great to find out how the charcters from book one Summer Storm were doing and to meet some new interesting characters in this book.

This book is very suspenseful, full of faith, love, forgiveness and hope. It tells us once God forgives us we need to forgive ourselves and forget about the past.

One paragraph in the story Winter’s End really spoke to me. I will quote it “God works on us one piece at a time, like putting together a broken vase, because we are all broken when we come to him. He works with patience and tenderness, fitting the pieces back together. Sometimes a piece needs extra time for the glue to dry so it will stay in place, but He will hold onto that piece until it does finally stick. So today one more piece of your vase has been repaired.”

I really love this series and this author. I recommend you find her books and read something really full of love and forgiveness.
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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