Love Finds You in Amana, Iowa by Melanie Dobson

Overview: s the rest of the nation is embroiled in the Civil War, the Amana Colonies have remained at peace—until now. Amalie Wiese arrives in the newly built village of Amana in 1863 only to find that her fiancé, Friedrich, has left to fight for the Union army.

Amalie fears for his safety even as she struggles with his decision to abandon the colony's peace-loving beliefs. She hopes that working alongside Friedrich's best friend will provide some comfort, but instead of offering support, Matthias is abrupt and cold. When Matthias himself leaves for the battlefront to deliver supplies to the soldiers, war wages inside Amalie. Who will claim victory for her heart?

ISBN-13: 9781609361358
Publisher: Ideals Publications
Publication date: 6/1/2011
Series: Love Finds You Series
Pages: 320

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My Review: When I first started this story, I was a little....well....nervous as to how I would like it. It starts of kind of slow, but right around the middle of the novel, it picks up the pace and doesn't relent until the end. The events of the story are heart-wrenching for this peaceful community, and for me. I almost cried several times towards the end. It has a happy ending, which I am thankful for, and nothing felt forced or rushed. The description of the Inspirationalists community gave me a better understanding of their ways and customs. I envy their sense of community and selflessness.

The characters are complex and well-written. I loved that the novel encompassed Friedrich, Matthias, and Amelie's points of view. It provided more depth to the story, as well as the characters. Reading Friedrich's point of view from the front line of battle almost places you back in time during the Civil War and the horrors our soldiers on both sides had to face. Reading Matthias' struggle to keep his thoughts and actions towards his best friend's fiancé made me sympathetic toward his otherwise cold demeanor. Reading Amelie's background with her parents and separation from her fiancé for three years had me rooting for her after tragedy strikes and she is left to pick up the pieces.

The author really drives home one main point, in my opinion. God speaks to everyone in different ways. It is not our job to judge others or understand what God has called them to do. We are called to support, uplift, and pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ, no matter the decisions they make. Our path will be made clear, when God is ready for us to know it.

Overall, I enjoyed visiting the Amana Kolonie and look forward to reading more by Melanie Dobson.

About the Author: MELANIE DOBSON is the author of 5 novels including Love Finds You in Homestead, Iowa, and has a background in publicity and journalism. She grew up in a small Ohio town but now lives with her husband and two daughters in Oregon. Read more at www.melaniedobson.com.

When Mercy Rains by Kim Vogel Sawyer

Overview: She left, heavily weighted with secrets. But God reveals all things, in His timing. And He redeems them.

Suzanne Zimmerman was only seventeen and pregnant when her shamed mother quietly sent her away from their Old Order Mennonite community in Kansas. With her old home, family, and first love firmly behind her, Suzanne moved to Indiana, became a nurse, and raised a daughter, Alexa, on her own.

Now, nearly twenty years later, an unexpected letter arrives from Kansas. Her brother asks her to bring her nursing abilities home and care for their ailing mother. His request requires that Suzanne face a family that may not have forgiven her and a strict faith community. It also means seeing Paul Aldrich, her first love.

Paul, widowed with an eight-year-old son, is relieved to see Suzanne again, giving him the chance to beg her forgiveness for his past indiscretion. But when he meets Alexa, his guilt flickers in the glare of Suzanne’s prolonged secret—one that changes everything.

Suzanne had let go of any expectation for forgiveness long ago. Does she dare hope in mercy–and how will her uncovered past affect the people she loves the most?

ISBN-13: 9780307731319
Publisher: The Doubleday Religious Publishing Group
Publication date: 10/7/2014
Series: Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy Series
Pages: 352
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My Review: Wow! Kim Vogel Sawyer knows how to write. This book was fantastic. The plot is engaging, serious, and well thought out. While the focus of the plot was on the lies, betrayal and anger, it wasn't heavy or hard to read. There were moments of dialogue that provided comic relief to keep the story flowing effortlessly.

The characters were phenomenal. I loved Suzanne and Alexa.Suzanne's character was weighed down by guilt and shame. Her attitude through it all, though, was what really amazed me. She was strong, courageous, and kind-hearted despite her past angst. Alexa was a sweet, innocent girl that provided much needed relief to the story. Paul's character was also well-written. He was a great father and worked hard to emulate Jesus in his every day life. Abigail changed the most, in my opinion. At the beginning of the story, she was spiteful, bitter, and angry. I cringed every time she talked! By the end, though, I wept and laughed right along with her!

The message of the story is aptly summed up in the title of the book. Mercy certainly did rain down on this family. As Alexa says, "...when mercy rains, lives become fresh and new." When we allow our past mistakes to bog down our lives, we generally react in one of two ways: like Suzanna, who tried to cover her lies and past with secrets; or like Abigail with bitterness and anger. God doesn't want that for us. As far has He's concerned, when we ask for forgiveness, we are washed clean; like it never happened. That's how we should live our lives! That's what God wants!

Overall, this was a sweet story of God's mercy and grace.

**I received this book for free from the publisher through the Blogging for Books program in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.**

About the Author: Kim Vogel Sawyer is a best-selling, award-winning author with more than one million copies of her books currently in print. Awards include the ACFW Carol Award, the Inspirational Readers Choice Award, and the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence. Sawyer lives in central Kansas, where she and her retired military husband, Don, run a bed-and-breakfast inn with the help of their feline companions. She savors time with her daughters and grandchildren.
Author Hometown: Kansas

Connect with Kim: Email Kim  | Facebook | Twitter | Website

Weekend Wrap Up (Jan. 16)

 

This is the Weekend Wrap-Up, inspired by Melanie at Christian Bookshelf Review. This is where I will tell you what I've read in the past week, what I'm currently reading, and what I plan to read in the week ahead. I might also share some interesting events from the past week!

What I've Read: 

 

Reviews Posted: 

Steadfast Heart by Tracie Peterson

A January Bride by Deborah Raney
Deadly Devotion by Sandra Orchard

What I'm Currently Reading: 

What's Up Next: 

 

Deadly Devotion by Sandra Orchard

Overview: Research scientist Kate Adams and her colleague Daisy are on the brink of a breakthrough for treating depression with herbal medicine when Daisy suddenly dies. Kate knows that if it hadn't been for Daisy's mentorship, she wouldn't have the job she loves or the faith she clings to. So when police rule Daisy's death a suicide, Kate is determined to unearth the truth.

Former FBI agent Tom Parker finds it hard to adjust to life back in his hometown of Port Aster. Though an old buddy gives him a job as a detective on the local police force, not everyone approves. Tom's just trying to keep a low profile, so when Kate Adams demands he reopen the investigation of her friend's death, he knows his job is at stake. In fact, despite his attraction to her, Tom thinks Kate looks a bit suspicious herself.

As evidence mounts, a web of intrigue is woven around the sleepy town of Port Aster. Can Kate uncover the truth? Or will Tom stand in her way?

ISBN-13: 9780800722227

Publisher: Baker Publishing Group

Publication date: 6/1/2013

Series: Port Aster Secrets , #1

Pages: 384

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Here's my review of Blind Trust.

My Review: I thoroughly enjoyed this gripping suspense story. Because I read the second book in the Port Aster Secrets series, Blind Trust, first, I was somewhat familiar with what was going to happen. That didn't diminish my enjoyment at all. The plot was engaging, exciting, and had me squirming to find out more! The ending leaves a few loose ends, a couple of which are resolved in book 2 if I remember correctly. Each book could be read stand alone, but I wouldn't recommend it.

Oh I love the characters. I love them even more since I really got to understand them. Kate Adams is a fiery and fearless red head that is still learning to navigate a life of faith. Tom Parker is a determined cop, who came back home to re-evaluate his view on life and reconnect with his childhood faith. There are sparks that fly whenever Kate and Tom are together, but neither will admit it. I can't wait to see what happens with them next!

The message was expertly weaved in the story. Everyone, at one time or another, will come up against a side of God they aren't prepared for. We might not understand it, we will question it, but our choice to follow God and trust Him despite the circumstances will strengthen us in the end.

Overall, this is an intriguing story with a deep message. I hope you enjoy it!

About the Author: Sandra Orchard is an award-winning author of inspirational romantic suspense with Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense imprint, and Revell Publishing. She is an active member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America and The Word Guild (Canada). A mother of three grown children, she lives in Niagara, Canada with her real-life-hero husband and now writes full time…when not doting on her young grandchildren.  You can learn more about Sandra’s books and bonus features at www.SandraOrchard.com or connect at www.Facebook.com/SandraOrchard Sandra is represented by Steve Laube of the Steve Laube Agency.

Connect with Sandra: Facebook  | Goodreads | Sandra's Blog | Website

Top Ten Tuesday: 2014 Releases I Meant to Read, But Didn't

For future Top Ten Tuesday topics & info on how to participate, click here!

Hosted by The Broke and the Bookish

 

There are so many books that came out in 2014 that I wanted to read, but didn't get to. I had a hard time narrowing the list down! Here it is:

 

Full Steam Ahead by Karen Witemeyer - I love all of Karen's books, I just never got a chance to get this book!

A Match Made in Texas: A Novella Collection - I read so many good reviews and my favorite authors wrote it. I don't know why I didn't get it!

Princess Ever After by Rachel Hauck - I loved the first book, Once Upon a Prince, and I own this book. No excuse for not reading it...

A Sensible Arrangement by Tracie Peterson - I won this book and was so excited, I bought the entire series. I just ran out of time last year. 

Petticoat Detective by Margaret Brownley - I love Margaret Brownley and I didn't even know this book existed! I also love reading books about women in the 1800s' working non-traditional roles. It always makes for an interesting story!

Bridge to Haven by Francine Rivers - After reading Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers, I've wanted to read all of her books. I just haven't found the time.

Meant to Be Mine by Becky Wade - I've been meaning to read Becky Wade's Porter Family series for a while now, but I get nervous to read new [to me] authors.

It Had to be You by Susan May Warren - Same as Becky Wade... I get nervous to read new [to me] authors.

Fair Play by Deeanne Gist - I have wanted to read It Happened At The Fair since it came out, so it stands to reason I would want to read the second book in the series!

A Lady of Willowgrove Hall by Sarah E. Ladd - I have wanted to read this series since it first came out, and I've purchased the entire series, so I really have no excuse...

A January Bride by Deborah Raney

Overview: A year’s worth of novellas from twelve inspirational romance authors. Happily ever after guaranteed.

What will happen when novelist Madeleine Houser’s “pen pal” friendship with a lonely widower takes an unexpected turn?

Who can work in a house that's overrun by contractors and carpenters? Not Madeleine Houser, a successful novelist who gladly accepts the help of her octogenarian friend, Ginny, to arrange for a temporary office in the charming bed and breakfast owned by Ginny's friend, Arthur. Maddie’s never met the innkeeper—but a friendship grows between them as Maddie and Arthur leave messages for each other each day. To Maddie’s alternate delight and chagrin, she seems to be falling for the inn’s owner—a man who's likely many years her senior—and who she’s never even met.

Arthur Tyler is a college professor who lost his young wife to cancer. Together they ran the bed and breakfast where Art lives, but without his wife, the house is missing warmth and cheer. He jumps at the chance to have author Madeleine Houser use the space that was once filled with guests. He, too, begins to enjoy the daily exchanges with Maddie, but a series of misunderstandings lead him to believe she’s far from being a prospective date—even if he were ready to date again, which he’s not.

When Maddie and Art finally meet and discover one another’s identity, sparks fly. Even so, they each have obstacles to overcome in order for this winter romance to blossom.

ISBN-13: 9780310337706
Publisher: Zondervan
Publication date: 12/24/2013
Series: A Year of Weddings Novella , #1
Sold by: Zondervan Publishing
Format: eBook
Pages: 147

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My Review: This was such a fun story! I loved the characters and the little notes they left for one another. The description of the Inn made me want to visit. The emotions of the characters was well developed, for a novella.

The characters were tangible. I could relate to their situations and their character development was well-timed. The romance between Maddie and Art seemed a little bit rushed, but other than that it was well-written.

Overall, I enjoyed this sweet story! Sometimes, it's hard to get a feel for the characters and the story line in a novella. This is not one of those novellas!

About the Author: DEBORAH RANEY's first novel, A Vow to Cherish, inspired the World Wide Pictures film of the same title. Her books have since won the RITA Award, ACFW Carol Award, HOLT Medallion, National Readers' Choice Award, and have twice been Christy Award finalists. Home to Chicory Lane, first in Deb's new Chicory Inn Novels series from Abingdon Press just released. Deb and her husband, Ken Raney, enjoy life in Kansas. They have four children and five small grandchildren, who all live much too far away.

CONTACT DEBORAH

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Steadfast Heart by Tracie Petereson

Overview: Despite her spoiled upbringing, twenty-year-old Lenore Fulcher isn't pretentious. She simply believes a marriage should be built on true love. Her father, however, thinks she's wasted enough time searching for the perfect husband. He wants to marry her off to one of his business partners--who is seventeen years her senior--an idea that is out of the question for Lenore.

Kolbein Booth, a young lawyer from Chicago, arrives in Seattle looking for his headstrong sister, who he believes may have answered an advertisement for mail-order brides. Sick with worry, he storms into the Madison Bridal School, demanding to see his sister, only to learn she isn't there. But Lenore Fulcher is, and something about her captures his attention.

Is this the man Lenore has been searching for? She may not have long to find out...

ISBN-13: 9780764210617
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
Publication date: 1/6/2015
Series: Brides of Seattle , #1
Pages: 352

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My Review: Tracie Peterson has a wonderful way with words. Her characters are always well rounded and developed. The Christian aspect is very present and tastefully written. This book was no exception. Steadfast Heart was no exception. It is well written and developed, as I've come to expect from Tracie Peterson.

The characters were well-written and entertaining. Lenore Fulcher is a sweet, caring young lady who is deeply devoted to her family and her friend Abrianna (who had me in tears from her antics!). All she wants is to be truly and deeply loved. Kolbein Booth is a fine gentleman who is captivated from the moment he meets Lenore.

I will say, I immensely enjoyed Abrianna Cunningham's character (almost more than Lenore's)! Her and her aunts provided such comic relief to the story. Wade's character, his exasperation with Abrianna could be felt through the pages, was another great addition. I hope we see more them in the future!!

The message of the story was expertly weaved throughout. Both Lenore and Kolbein deepened their childhood faith and learned to depend on the Lord for their comfort and strength. With Abrianna and Wade's help, they come to fully grasp and understand what the Lord has for them.

Overall, this was a great story and I look forward to reading more about the Brides of Seattle.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through the Bethany House blogging program in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.*

About the Author: Tracie Peterson is an award-winning, best-selling author of over 100 books. Having given her heart to Jesus at the young age of six, Tracie has always felt called to some form of ministry, and writing fulfills that mission field. 

Tracie received her first book contract in November, 1992 and saw A Place To Belong published in February 1993 with Barbour Publishings' Heartsong Presents. She wrote exclusively with Heartsong for the next two years, receiving their readership's vote for Favorite Author of the Year for three years in a row. 

In December, 1995 she signed a contract with Bethany House Publishers. Tracie now writes exclusively for Bethany House Publishers. She has co-written with a variety of authors including Judith Pella, Judith Miller, James Scott Bell, Kimberley Woodhouse and her daughter Jennifer. 

Throughout her writing career Tracie has found time to speak at writer's conferences where she has a special heart for new authors. She is often joined by her husband Jim, whose background in history offers new authors insight into research. Besides teaching at conferences, Tracie also at one time managed Barbour Publishing's Heartsong Presents book line - overseeing the production of 52 books a year. Tracie teaches at women's conferences around the country and shares her testimony and insight for Christian living through the eyes of an author passionately in love with her Heavenly Father. 

Tracie was awarded the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for 2007 Inspirational Fiction and the 2011 Lifetime Achievement Award from American Christian Fiction Writers. Her books have won numerous awards for favorite books in a variety of contests, including USA "Best Books 2011" Awards, best Religious Fiction for Embers of Love! 

Making her home in Montana, this Kansas native enjoys spending time with family--especially her three grandchildren--Rainy, Fox and Max.. 

For information on having Tracie speak at your event - contact Noelle Buss at Bethany Publishers/Baker Books. 

Connect with Tracie: Blog | Facebook | Amazon | Website