Sara
The Crushing Depths is the second book in the Coastal Guardians series by Dani Pettrey. As with the previous book, Dani Pettrey hits it out of the park with suspense and intensity. From the bond between the main characters, Rissi and Mason, to the CGIS team dynamics, you will be pulled into the drama and suspense of the investigation happening offshore on a drilling platform. The setting is a unique one that I have not encountered many times in the past but thoroughly enjoyed. The storyline is full of twists and surprises which makes the ending unpredictable. Overall, it's an excellent clean read with a good dose of suspense. Readers will be waiting expectantly for the series to continue with the third book.
Author, Jordan Raynor, has written a great resource with practical steps and wisdom on how to not be a “Jack of all trades, master of NONE” and instead be Master of One. Usually an excellent book is noted by not being able to put it down, but this book should be digested and not just quickly read through. It is packed with insight and actionable content to help you discover your God given purpose - serving Him with our talents. With stories and quotes from other Christians, it allows the reader to identify with someone who is like them. You will want to mark this one up and keep it for future reference. Excellent read and highly recommend.
After reading the first book in the series by Tari Faris, I had high expectations for the next book - Until I Met You did NOT disappoint. This book checked off all of the boxes for me - small town setting, a librarian as the main character, and a storyline that warms your heart. The small town of Heritage is charming and full of surprises - like the moving statue. The theme of family, forgiveness and second chances is woven throughout and you can feel the emotion as you read. The characters are relatable and some more likable than others. The story follows four main characters - two brothers, Austin and Nathan, who have tension between them and two friends, Libby and Olivia, who get brought into the middle. I really enjoyed Libby's character and her love of the Carnegie libraries - one of the best parts of the book - wink, wink!
I could say so much more, but it's really a book you should read for yourself. With that being said, I do recommend reading this series in order, as they build off of the previous book. If you like Rachel Hauk, Denise Hunter & Susan May Warren, then you will find Until I Met You to be an excellent read!
When you need a book that is light hearted and fun, The Happy Camper is just that! It's not overwhelming and can be read quickly. The cover alone is cheerful and sets the backdrop for the story. Melody Carlson has beautifully scripted a story that is all about relationships. The main character, Dillon, is determined and kindhearted. She is independent and willing to take on difficult tasks - like helping her mother with growing a field of lavender. Although she has a strained relationship with her whiny mother, her relationship with her grandfather was very endearing. I will admit, the mother did get on my nerves a bit. When she encounters the local hardware store employee, Jordan, things start to get interesting. The setting in Colorado adds to the fun and relaxed vibe throughout the pages. I also enjoyed learning about the camper club and the restoring of retro campers. It added to the fun and cheeriness of the story. All in all, it's a great book to bring some happy thoughts and brighten your day.
If you love Hallmark movies, then you will enjoy The Happy Camper.
Whatever path you find yourself on in the wandering, For All Who Wander will make you feel as though you aren't alone on the journey.
Robin Dance is a contributor for the (in)courage community. With For All Who Wander, she has written a memoir of sorts. Through the pages you will take a look at her story and how wandering led her back to God. She includes many scripture passages and references - which was a great resource. There is also a Journey Guide (separate study guide) that is an excellent companion to the main book. If you read the book alone, it is more about her story. But if you get the Journey Guide to go along with it, you will be able to apply it to your own life with practical tools to reflect, resolve and respond.
Standoff is the first book in a new series called Natchez Trace Park Rangers by Patricia Bradley. Once you start reading, you won't be able to put it down. The setting was a great mix of historic small town and eery wilderness. The pages are filled with mystery and suspense with a bit of romance. With the villain being someone who is supposed to defend the law, it becomes a real mess trying to figure out who can be trusted. This brought about many plot twists as the story develops. The romance did not overwhelm the story and is sprinkled throughout. Overall, it was a fast read and I look forward to the next book in the series.
On a Coastal Breeze is book #2 in the Three Sisters Island series by Suzanne Woods Fisher. It is fun, light hearted but still has depth to the storyline. The sisters dynamics between each other and their father are always good for a laugh. You can feel the family struggle between love and frustration with each other. As you read through the pages, you will feel right at home on Three Sisters Island. It's a wonderful contemporary read that draws you in and warms your heart. It can be read as a stand alone, but I encourage you to read the previous book. They are worth the time and will put you in good spirits.
When a new Irene Hannon book arrives at my doorstep, I know I will be up late reading! Point of Danger is the first book in the new series Triple Threat. First, let me point out that the cover art is just as suspenseful as the storyline itself. I know they say “Don't judge a book by it's cover” but sometimes they just draw you right in.
Not only were the main characters intriguing , but the secondary characters were fun to get to know as well. Although I won't go in to detail on them to save any spoilers from leaking out. The main female character, Eve Reilly, doesn't hold back on her radio talk show regarding her stance and opinions. She's not only strong in her beliefs but also in her resolve to fix up her bungalow on her own. Her strength and determination shine throughout developing her character. Secondary characters are just as well developed and fun to get to know, from her sisters to her sweet neighbor.
Being from St. Louis, I don't always enjoy reading about my hometown because any inaccuracy pops out. But Irene Hannnon did an excellent job portraying the neighborhood, architecture and local hotspots throughout. Ted Drewes custard is truly all that it's cracked up to be!
Point of Danger is an excellent read! It would make for a great book club pick as well. There are plenty of discussion topics that could come from the pages. If you like Dee Henderson, Colleen Coble or Nancy Mehl, you will enjoy Irene Hannon's suspense novels!
I was introduced to Tara-Leigh Cobble via her podcast and knew that I wanted to read The Bible Recap right away. First, you will need a Bible to accompany this book as the scriptures are not within the text. It is a companion book, resource and guide of sorts. It packs so much into it, I'm not exactly sure what to label it. Cobble breaks down a chronological reading of the BIble into daily readings of several chapters. The Bible Recap then does exactly that - recaps what you read in the scriptures and ends with a paragraph on how to apply it to life. It truly is unlike any other Bible study resource I have used. It is meant to be used as a year long reading guide and resource. It is a great way to hold yourself accountable to reading through the Bible. It would be a great resource for a church library, book club, life group or any other study group.
Denise Hunter rounded out her Bluebell Inn series with Autumn Skies, featuring the youngest sister, Grace. Hunter delivers a well balanced story with emotion and conflict. The characters are relatable but not predictable. I enjoyed the many outdoor activities and scenes that developed the mood of the storyline. Being the last book in the series, it neatly tied up loose ends and leaves you with a warm heart and wanting to visit the lake town in North Carolina.
Get ready to be on the edge of your seat! The Escape written by Lisa Harris is the first book in the US Marshalls series. The main characters, Madison and Jonas, have been re-introduced while being paired up for a new assignment. For Madison, it has been five years since her husband was murdered. His killer is still out there and appears to be taunting her by leaving black roses on the anniversary of his death. Jonas has just moved back to Seattle and was looking forward to some time off. Duty calls and the two US Marshalls are escorting several prisoners via air to their next destination. After a crash landing, the hunt for one of the prisoners ensues.
While I couldn't put the book down, I also felt as though there were slightly too many “he got away again” moments. There were several secondary characters and storylines that were entwined in the main theme. I assume a few of those will get fleshed out in future books. One scene in particular bothered me. A black rose was left on Madison's bed right before she leaves for this assignment. That didn't seem like a detail that should be casually interjected and passed off without investigation.
The Escape is a fast paced suspense packed with twists and turns. There's no lack of adrenaline filled scenes and only a spark of romance - like barely there. I look forward to the next installment to see what the US Marshals next adventure entails as this book ends in a bit of a cliffhanger.
I received a copy of this book for review via Revell Company. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own
As with Emily's other books, Grace, Not Perfection for Young Readers is practical and meant to be worked through in bits and pieces. It even includes space for writing your feelings and thoughts at the end of the chapter. She addresses topics that are relevant for young girls and women alike - friends, phone usage, your space, and grace. It stresses grace for yourself, others and everyone you encounter whether in your past, present or future. It would be an excellent gift for any young girl for her birthday, graduation or just because. You could even read through it with your daughter as a bonding experience. Christian values and principles are the foundation of the text, but it is not overdone. In my opinion it is perfectly balanced and beautifully written.
Obsession is the second book in Patricia Bradley's series Natchez Trace Park Rangers. This suspenseful tale leads you on a journey of twists with several possible suspects. The two main characters Sam & Emma have a past full of misunderstandings and pain. When a stalker enters the picture, the rangers will have to work together in order to solve the case. To make matters worse, Emma is the target of a so called secret admirer. Is the murderer, stalker and shooter one and the same or are they all separate? It's up to Sam and Emma to figure it out.
Between The Wild Branches is the second book in The Covenant House series by Connilyn Cossette. When I received Between The Wild Branches in the mail, I had yet to read the first book in the series, To Dwell Among Cedars. I'm glad I quickly picked up book one and read it in two nights before starting book two.
The storyline is set 1052 BC during the period of time that the arc of the covenant went missing. The author does an amazing job of writing between the gaps and coming up with a beautiful tale of fiction. Of course we do not know what happened, but this novel brings light to the time period and what it may have been like to live through it. Lukio's story picks up in adulthood where he has become a Philistine fighter and given the nickname “Demon Eyes”. Shoshana is the lead female character and she has a story of her own after being captured and enslaved. They know each other from childhood but their stories will intertwine in adulthood. For me, the details and the imagery that is put into words is simply breathtaking. You feel as though you are in the story. The characters, setting, storyline are woven together to create a Biblical fiction masterpiece.
If you are a fan of Francine Rivers (you should be), Connilyn Cossette will be your next favorite author. She is at the top of the list for me!
Connilynn Cossette has wrapped up her Cities of Refuge series beautifully with Like Flames in the Night. The main characters Tirzah and Liyam are both strong willed and driven to complete their mission. The characters are so well developed, you feel as though you are connected to them. The historical setting is portrayed with spectacular detail and you feel as though you've been transported back in time. Connilynn as a way of writing that will keep you from ever putting the book down. If you enjoy Francine Rivers writing, you will thoroughly enjoy Like Flames in the Night
Becky Wade engages readers with this emotional contemporary romance and draws you in with her characters real world problems. Stay With Me addresses very real struggles while peeling back the layers of hope by facing them head on. The main female character, Genevieve, is a Bible study author with secrets that could devastate her career. Sam, the main male character, is living the life of a farmer in order to shut out his past and stay secluded. Their paths cross in an unusual way and they struggle to let go of their own reservations to move toward the future. Lies, secrets and trauma will all be exposed and an inspirational message fills the pages. Stay With Me is engaging, emotional and full of redemption. I am looking forward to the next book in the series!
Sweet read that is full of grace! Love and a Little White Lie by Tammy L. Gray is a contemporary romance novel that is beautifully written about a woman's journey from hurting to healing. The characters are imperfect, which makes them believable and relatable. The main character, January, is a non-believer and finds herself working in a church to make ends meet. She encounters many different people and situations which are woven throughout the pages. The storyline is one I found refreshing and very realistic. The resolutions to problems are not always as expected. It's packed with wit, heartache, grace and truth. It's a book you simply can't put down!
Sweet all around - from the macarons to the love lock wall! Betsy St. Amant's book, The Key to Love, is one that could be the premise of a Hallmark movie. When a small town bakery is struggling to thrive, the only hope they have is resting on a journalist who is the least likely to appreciate the heart of their business and write a raving review.
It was easy to imagine stepping through the doors of the Pastry Puff and getting to know the people of the town. The two sisters who own the bakery are hilarious in their banter back and forth. The tension between the bakery chef, Bri Duval, and Gerard Portier, the motorcycle riding journalist, is predictable but not a deal breaker. The characters overcome disappointment but discover that expectations can hide the very things you are searching for. Overall the story was witty, charming, wholesome and a fun read!
Susan May Warren delivers a show stopper once again! The Price of Valor is book 3 in the Global Search and Rescue series. The main character, Hamilton, has appeared in many other books as a secondary character. Readers will finally get the details of Ham's history with his wife, Signe and his daughter. With many heart stopping moments, a natural disaster and the spy details, you will not be able to stop turning pages. I highly recommend reading the previous two books and then finishing with The Price of Valor.
An excellent read for children to understand how words have an affect on others. Gisbert the giraffe begins to feel smaller and smaller with every negative word spoken to him. He doesn't understand why but he feels as though he is shrinking. The visual concept of feeling small on the inside while your appearance on the outside remains the same was a wonderful way to help children understand bullying. The author also delivers a message of how you can make others feel great about themselves by words and acts of kindness. Both very important messages in our current world. I would recommend this book for children between the ages of 3-10. Although it references Gisbert being in kindergarten, this would be a wonderful book for pre-school to elementary teachers to use in their classrooms.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Timeless classic that never gets old and the information is just as applicable today. Once you've read it for the first time, let it soak in and then when you enter another phase or decision in life - read it again. You will absorb information that you didn't pick up on the first time. I truly believe this book to be one that every college student or young adult needs to read before going out on their own.
It is written by Napoleon Hill and also includes additional writings/articles that have been found and added to the end. The information within the pages has been used and tested by many well known Americans - including Andrew Carnegie, Charles M. Schwab, Henry Ford and President Woodrow Wilson. Do yourself a favor and get this book in hard copy so you can mark it up and continue taking notes as you read it over and over!
With everything happening in our world today, could there be a better book to help with toxic thoughts? Jennie Allen is the founder of IF:Gathering and has written several books including Restless and Nothing to Prove. With Get Out Of Your Head, she has taken her own life experience and combined it with God's truth in order to deliver a strategy to fight and win the war of toxic thinking.
Side note: mental illness is REAL and this is not a replacement for medical assistance. She makes that clear in her book as well.
With that being said, Get Out of Your Head focuses on how to break the downward spiral that our thoughts can take us on. It felt like I was sitting in a room with a friend who wasn't afraid to speak the truth. Not just the truths of how to stop the toxic thoughts, but also the real life stories that you can relate to. I am not alone in this, others feel this way to. This book gives you tools that you can put into practice and they work! If you are looking for change and freedom from destructive thoughts, I promise you will find this book helpful and eye opening.
Louisiana Elefante was introduced to readers in Raymie Nightingale. Although this book can be read as a stand alone, I would recommend you start with Raymie's story. This book will take you on a roller coaster of emotions as you journey along with Louisiana. She's thrown into some odd situations that she handles with strength, grit and grace. She meets interesting characters along the way, all while figuring out some of life's challenges. This book deals with unusual friendships, wisdom beyond years and less than perfect circumstances. Life is not a fairytale and neither is Louisana's Way Home.
More in depth review at : http://coastandanchor.com/kate-dicamillo-louisiana-rosie/
To be honest, It's Not Supposed to Be This Way fell into the category of “not applicable” in my mind based on my following the author Lysa Terkeurst's on social media and knowing what hardships she was facing. I WAS VERY WRONG about the topic of the book!
Be aware that if you are under the impression like myself that it is about a cheating spouse and how to find restoration in your marriage, it is NOT. It's Not Supposed to Be This Way is a book on how to deal with any life situation that “is not supposed to be this way” and more importantly how to cope with Jesus by your side. Lysa walks you through dark circumstances with understanding and grit because she truly has experienced and is fighting the battle of painful situations while putting the words on paper. A book has so much more depth and speaks loudly when the author has been or is going through what they are writing about. You can feel the emotion and power in the words.
In our current world where expectations and perfection are put in front of us daily as if they are the norm, it is comforting to have a book that exposes reality and what is probably the “real” norm which is disappointment and imperfectness. Behind all of the pretty images and curated posts, there are real people going through very real struggles and you can find help in this book to deal with them. At the end of each chapter, there is a section called Going to the Well and it gives you practical application of what you have read and breaks it down into simple segments labeled - Remember, Receive and Reflect. After absorbing the pages in the chapter instead of setting the book down with a swirling mind, you have the tools to piece it together and apply it right away.
I am so thankful that I took the time to read It's Not Supposed to Be This Way that I thought wasn't relevant to my life. It was not only relevant but it turned out to be a book I highly recommend to others to read!
I'm a rule follower to a fault. But this is one type of rebel I could align with – a Rebel Librarian! Before we get into what I love about this book, let's get one minor distraction out of the way. It's not really that negative and most middle grade students will likely not even notice the improbability surrounding the magnitude of books banned . Very drastic measures were taken in the library with regard to removal of “banned” books, which were challenged by parents in the school. In reality, librarians have additional resources that would have been implemented compared to what the librarian in the story was able to accomplish. But as I stated, I don't think it detracts from the moral of the story. Now to get to it! This book made me want to stand up and cheer for the main character, June Harper. She respected authority while also challenging it. She had to make important decisions about who to align herself with. She asserted herself and stood up for what she believed – the right to read books of all kinds. I think this is a great read for 5-7th graders, although it is listed as middle grade. There is a bit of relationship drama that is more early YA, but nothing a mature middle grader can't handle. As a book lover, little library hunter and mom to two daughters (age 6 and 10), this book is one that I will be purchasing for them to read. This would also make for a great discussion book for classrooms, families or kids book club. It introduces many topics that are important in our current culture, but brings them to a level that is understandable for middle grade to young adults. It has themes that embrace empowering young girls to stand up for what they know is right, encourages reading of diverse books and developing unlikely friendships. After reading this book, I would like to cheer aloud for the Rebel Librarian in us all! Stand up for the freedom to read!