Tag: First Line Fridays

Bringing Maggie Home | First Line Fridays

Published on by Amanda Tero9 Comments
Today’s book…
*happy sigh*
*like really happy sigh*

I have liked every book that I’ve read by Kim Vogel Sawyer and this one was no different. I wasn’t sure that I would like it, seeing as I’d only read her historical fiction, and this one is modern. That, and THEN it flips back and forth from present-day to past…and I’m not a huge fan of backstory. But this book…It was so beautifully written! I really like it. I really do. I’m so keeping this book on my shelf!!
Oh yeah.
First line.
Sorry guys. I had to endorse it first. 😉

The first line isn’t one of those “gripping” and “what happens next” lines, but this story… yeah… you just need to read it. 😉 It’s super sweet and etc. (I have a review at the end of the post)

Do you like back-story? Books that flip from present-day to past?

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Be sure to hop along to all of these other blogs and see what First Lines they have to share!
Please note that I may not fully endorse all of the books that these bloggers read or the content in these blogs.
Rachel – Bookworm Mama
Andi – Radiant Light
Robin – Robin’s Nest
Kathleen – Kathleen Denly
Trisha – Joy of Reading
Jeanette – CJane Read
Rebecca – It’s Storytime with Van Danniker!
Iola – Iola Golton
Nicole – Christian Fiction Girl
Anna – Cross Romance
Alicia – A Brighter Destiny

My Review

A hint of mystery. A hint of intrigue. A hint of bitterness. A hint of romance. This seemed to be the perfect balance of all of that. What is best is that there was way more than a hint of faith and Christianity. From the first few chapters, characters with strong faith in God crossed the pages. It was truly a blessing to have it unashamedly crossing the pages. Sean. Hazel. Oh my, those characters were amazing! There was no doubt about how they viewed God and the Bible.

Now for the actual story. The whole relationship between Hazel, her daughter, and granddaughter, was amazingly real and a study of human nature and how one’s past, left unresolved, will affect their decisions—even when they do not realize it.

As I mentioned, the faith content was five-star. The Gospel was clearly presented, living by the Spirit clearly shown—yet there were also portions that were true such as a church being judgmental and turning people away from the church. So many things were covered in this book and were Biblically sound.

The romance was truly just a hint, and not at all emotionally driven. There was one scene of past events that I wouldn’t recommend younger readers reading (one of the characters had gotten pregnant out of wedlock and it highlights that a little yet doesn’t become explicit).

In conclusion, I enjoyed this read and happily place another Kim Vogel Sawyer book on my shelf.

*I received this book from Blogging for Books and happily provided my honest review*

How to Let God Solve Your Problems | First Line Fridays

Published on by Amanda Tero17 Comments
Happy Friday (and how is it already September?!)! I’m so excited to share another great read with you! Recently at a book sale, I picked up a few Charles Stanley books. I’ve only read one so far, and wow, it was a good one! As with other devotional books that I’ve shared, the first line isn’t always easy to understand without the whole context, so I’m picking out a quote to share. But there were too many good quotes. So scroll to the end of the post and read the dozens of amazing and thought-provoking quotes I copied, which I hope are an encouragement to you.

Once you’ve finished visiting everyone else’s FLF posts, I’d love to hear…
(feel free to pick just one to answer—I’m the question Queen 😉 )
– What is one of the best devotional books that you’ve read?
– What book are you reading this weekend?
– What’s a first line of the book closest to you?
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Be sure to hop along to all of these other blogs and see what First Lines they have to share!
Please note that I may not fully endorse all of the books that these bloggers read or the content in these blogs.
Rachel – Bookworm Mama
Andi – Radiant Light
Robin – Robin’s Nest
Kathleen – Kathleen Denly
Trisha – Joy of Reading
Jeanette – CJane Read
Rebecca – It’s Storytime with Van Danniker!
Iola – Iola Golton
Nicole – Christian Fiction Girl
Anna – Cross Romance
Alicia – A Brighter Destiny
Quotes:

“In the aftermath of any storm, [God] is the only One we can turn to for encouragement.” (Pg. 3)

“He knows when we face difficulties that are beyond our ability to handle…” (pg. 5)
“Do you realize that even if [a storm] has appeared as a result of something you have done, God is with you?” (Pg. 8)
“When I let go of my need to work something out, He handles all the details of my circumstances perfectly.” (Pg. 12)
“Endurance means that I am willing to stay at my post—where God has placed me—until He tells me to move forward. It also means that no matter how hard life may become, I will follow wherever He leads.” (Pg. 16)
“We are the ones who make sorrow and heartache even more difficult to bear. Many times, we believe Satan’s lies.” (Pg. 18)
“Anyone can quit and walk away from life. However, it takes courage to go on when it appears that every avenue has been blocked and every opportunity removed. The pathway to hope and victory often runs straight through the valley of adversity.” (Pg. 19)
“True peace cannot come to the person who had not surrendered his or her life to the Lord.” (Pg 27)
“God uses adversity to purify us and prepare us for greater service.” (Pg 28)
“Most of the time, we know the way God wants us to go, but if it involves sacrifice or personal surrender, we can become resistant and even disobedient.” (Pg 40)
“The brokenness of your life does not prevent the Savior from loving you.” (Pg 42)
“When trouble hits, resist the urge to focus on yourself, your ambitions, and personal desires.” (Pg 46)
“In time, and with God’s help, that person understands that God’s plan for his or her life is not over; it is just taking a different path than the one he or she thought would be traveling.” (Pg 47)
“It is it in times of deep trial, when our faith is tested beyond our normal ability to endure, that we discover God’s loving hand is holding us up and reassuring us that He will never leave.” (Pg 56)
“A person chooses to wait on God because he or she wants the best.” (Pg 65)
“Prayer is a step of faith, not a pathway to anxiety.” (Pg 76)
“Adversity trains you to worship God and to long for time alone in His presence.” (Pg 87)
“Obey God and He will lead you *through* the stormy times to a place of great blessing.” (Pg 96)
“Loneliness is not something only single people face. It is something that comes from not being at peace in God’s presence and not being satisfied with what He has provided.” (Pg 99)
“So often, problems that arise in our lives come as a result of our not obeying God.” (Pg 104)
“Timing is everything to God. He knows exactly when to motivate us to move forward and when to hold us back.” (Pg 108)
“[God] is our instructor, guide, and teacher. But sometimes we do not hear what He is saying because we are too wrapped up in our problems. We pray and think we are giving our burden to Him, but we continue to carry it around by talking about it and even frantically wondering what will happen next. When we ask God to take our burdens, He does. However, if we continue to cling to it and work on ways of solving it, we signal a lack of faith in His ability.” (Pg 109)
“[God] never sees your burden as being insignificant. Therefore, no matter how large or small a difficulty may appear, make a habit of praying about it.” (Pg 110)
“You have a sense of peace, not because of what you have, but because of who has you.” (Pg 118)
“Sin causes a separation in our fellowship with God, and this sense of separation gives birth to fear.” (Pg 142)

First Line Fridays, Review | Beneath Copper Falls

Published on by Amanda Tero9 Comments
This Friday, I’m featuring a suspense novel. I think I’ve figured out that I’m not as much for suspense as I thought I was. I just don’t care for dwelling on that which is dark–on the sick cruelty of humanity when separated from God. Yeah… have any of you read this book? Did you like it?

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Also, be sure to hop along to all of these other blogs and see what First Lines they have to share!
Please note that I may not fully endorse all of the books that these bloggers read or the content in these blogs.
Rachel – Bookworm Mama
Andi – Radiant Light
Robin – Robin’s Nest
Kathleen – Kathleen Denly
Trisha – Joy of Reading
Jeanette – CJane Read
Rebecca – It’s Storytime with Van Danniker!
Iola – Iola Golton
Nicole – Christian Fiction Girl
My Review
I’ll be honest up front: this is probably the hardest book review I’ve had to write. As far as writing style and ability, I admire Coble. Her writing style is enjoyable and well-rounded.

Content… since I’m given permission for my honest review, that is what I’ll stick with. I know other readers who enjoy suspense may like this book, but it was not for me. So, for you readers who are debating whether or not to read this book, here are my thoughts.


The back cover did not shed light about how dark the content would be. There was no mention of a serial killer (much less one who drowned women), which may have better prepared me for the contents. It’s not just that it was a serial killer, but how closely connected the characters were to people who were being killed. And… who the serial killer was. I figured it out about halfway and continued in horror of, “Please be wrong.” (I wasn’t wrong)


For me, it was too dark without a good balance of light. God was mentioned, as was prayer, but it was more of, “I’ll pray for you” and “God has His good will for your life.” I found it to be somewhat shallow, and the characters in their everyday lives didn’t think much about God.


Another aspect I didn’t care for was the romance. I could have read it wrong, but it appeared that one couple lived together before marriage (which is Biblically wrong to do). The romance was more surface-centered and a few things took place that made me cringe (mentions of going too far, being too close, that type of thing).


So, coming from a conservative Christian viewpoint, this is not the type of book I’d like to read again.


*I received this book from Book Look Bloggers and happily provided my honest review*

First Line Fridays and Review | The Wisdom of God

Published on by Amanda Tero12 Comments

Happy Friday! I get to feature one of my new favorite books today!! As with other similar books, I didn’t go with first line, but a favorite quote.

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Also, be sure to hop along to all of these other blogs and see what First Lines they have to share!
Please note that I may not fully endorse all of the books that these bloggers read or the content in these blogs.
Rachel – Bookworm Mama
Andi – Radiant Light
Robin – Robin’s Nest
Kathleen – Kathleen Denly
Trisha – Joy of Reading
Jeanette – CJane Read
Rebecca – It’s Storytime with Van Danniker!
Iola – Iola Golton
Nicole – Christian Fiction Girl
Anna – Cross Romance

My Review

What is wisdom? This book is divided into 23 chapters exploring Biblical wisdom vs. worldly knowledge. It begins with the history of how the Jews perceived wisdom, to how Jesus Christ personified wisdom, to how we are to apply wisdom today.

This was a powerful and convicting read. From all I could tell, it was Biblically accurate, quoted many Scripture verses, and even used some hymns to expound on Biblical truths. There was a strong emphasis on humility, repentance, and salvation.

There are many quotes I appreciated. Here are a few:

“Would the man filled with wisdom and spiritual understanding write cheap poetry? I would certainly hope not!”

“David could sin, but he could also repent.” 

“We should not only memorize the Word, which is an excellent thing to do, but also know the difference between truth and error in applying the Word faithfully.”

“Obviously there is enticement from sinners. It does not say in Proverbs 1:10, ‘If sin entices thee.’ It says ‘If sinners entice thee.'”

“If that person stands between you and Jesus Christ, that person is not a friend.”

*I received this book from Bethany House Publishers and happily provided my honest review*

You may get the book here.

First Line Friday and Giveaway | Out of the Ashes

Published on by Amanda Tero21 Comments

Hi all! If you remember, a few weeks back, I already featured the first line from Out of the Ashes. So… today I’ll give you the first lines for all three in the series! 🙂

If you like good, solid fiction–and the Civil War, I highly recommend this whole series! Today, I’m specifically focusing on Out of the Ashes in a review, but before I do so… be sure to hop along to all of these other blogs and see what First Lines they have to share!
Please note that I may not fully endorse all of the books that these bloggers read or the content in these blogs.
Rachel – Bookworm Mama
Andi – Radiant Light
Robin – Robin’s Nest
Kathleen – Kathleen Denly
Trisha – Joy of Reading
Jeanette – CJane Read
Rebecca – It’s Storytime with Van Danniker!
Iola – Iola Golton
Nicole – Christian Fiction Girl

Share a first line — from one of your favorite series! 🙂

Now, for Ashes stuff…
About the Book

Sometimes peace is won through battle. 

Haunted by the memories he can’t escape, Ralph Williams wants to be left alone to lick his wounds. He doesn’t understand why he’s forced into the company of the one woman he least desires. Can God bring him healing through such uncomfortable circumstances?


Frank Harper thought he had left the war and its turmoil behind, but the home to which he has returned is anything but peaceful. When racial tensions arise in Maple Grove, Frank finds himself on a battlefield once more. He’s desperate for peace, but at what cost?


When George Chandler heads off to wed his beloved bride, things don’t go as expected. Just as George starts to get comfortable with what he believes is God’s new plan for his life, history threatens to repeat itself. Will he fight for the woman he’s come to love, or will he let her go?


The War Between the States has destroyed more than just a nation. In four years, it has damaged bodies and wounded souls until the people think that nothing is left. Will they find the healing they so desperately need from the God that loves them?


My Review
This was one of my most-anticipated 2017 reads. It’s a post-Civil War book (my current history fascination), the continuation of two books I greatly enjoyed, and by an author I knew I could trust. Those three all sum up to make a pretty solid read, in my humble opinion. 😉

What I loved most… continuing the stories of all of the characters in the former two Ancient Words books was amazing. I loved these characters, wanted to know what had become of them, and was sufficiently satisfied. Ralph’s story was probably my favorite. But I really think that he was just my favorite character overall.

The Christian element was very strong and woven throughout the story very well. I love it when I’m reading a story and suddenly the characters turn the conversation into something Biblical. Loved that! This one definitely gets a five-star on the spiritual content.

Romance… well, I know A.M. Heath. She’s a romantic at heart. However, I found that her writing wasn’t too overly-focused on the emotional side of romance. There was a lot about real love not just emotional love. There were some scenes that, because a couple was married, things were mentioned that is better for an older audience. But overall, I didn’t find that lines were crossed in what is appropriate.

I would say that the main down-side of this story was that it took me a little while to get into it and to remember all of the characters–the latter I will blame on my poor memory. It’s been 1 1/2 years since I’ve read books 1-2, and sometimes I finish a book and can’t even remember the MC’s name. So, I’ll just leave it at… if it’s been a while since you’ve read books 1-2, you may want to refresh your memory a little. Also, don’t read this as a stand-alone. It means so much more read as a series.

*I received this book from the author and happily provided my honest review*
GIVEAWAY!!
Be sure to enter here: https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b7851a908/?
And… in case you don’t win, you can buy the books on Amazon!
Book 1 | Book 2 | Book 3
About the Author

Besides being an Indie Author, I’m a wife, mother of four, children’s Sunday School teacher, sweet tea drinker, history fanatic, romantic, bubbly, lover of broccoli, and 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.
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/AMHeathfanpage/
Blog: https://amheathblog.wordpress.com/
Blog Stops
July 31: Karen Hadley @ Karen Sue Hadley : Book Review
Aug. 1: Krista Noorman @ by Krista : Book Review
Aug. 2: Becky Dempsey @ Blossoms and Blessings : Book Review
Aug. 4: Alicia Ruggieri @ A Brighter Destiny : Book Review and Interview
Aug. 7: Dana Kamstra @ D.L. Kamstra  : Book Review
Aug. 9: Laura Wilson @ Blue Eye Books : Book Review
Aug. 11: Amanda Tero @ With a Joyful Noise : Book Review
Aug. 14: Deana Dick @ Texas Book-aholic  : Book Review
Aug. 15: Virginia Winfield @  Bigreadersite : Book Review
Aug. 16: Raechel Lenore @ God’s Peculiar Treasure Rae : Spotlight
Aug. 18: Debbie Curto @ Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations  : Book Review and Interview

First Line Friday, Blog Tour and Giveaway | Manuscript for Murder

Published on by Amanda Tero15 Comments

Today’s First Line Friday is from…

“When that dude realized it was the history teacher, 
I was like shocked, y’know? I was like, ‘Dude! 
It has to be that science geek’s-whatshisname’s-dad.'”
(Manuscript for Murder by Chautona Havig)

Hint: This isn’t exactly the first line of the actual story but of a “two years ago.” 😉

Before I get into the review and fun blog tour stuff, visit the other First Line Friday-ers and see what they have to share! (Please note that I may not fully endorse all of the books that these bloggers read or the content in these blogs.)

Rachel – Bookworm Mama
Andi – Radiant Light
Robin – Robin’s Nest
Kathleen – Kathleen Denly
Trisha – Joy of Reading
Jeanette – CJane Read

GIVEAWAY
In honor of her Manuscript for Murder Celebration Tour, Chautona is giving away a mystery prize package worth over $100. Enter here: https://promosimple.com/ps/bc16
Would you like to know what’s in it? Find the first clue within the giveaway image below, then hop on over to Chautona’s website to begin the search for more clues and you might find a special giveaway just for clue hunters! Can you find all the clues before Augusta Septemus does?

MY REVIEW

The best phrase I can think to describe this book is “disturbingly interesting.” I found the idea of Alexa’s writing preceding murders, but at the same time, there was that disturbing/sick element of the motive for the murders (which, I suppose is the purpose of murder mysteries–they aren’t supposed to be enticing). 

Spiritual content… I didn’t catch a strong hint of a spiritual line throughout the story. And a few references Alexa made of “Lord” seemed used in vain–like she wasn’t praying, but uttering it flippantly. That could be me misreading it. There were mentions of God and praying, but like I said, it wasn’t a strong thread at all. 


Clean content… this almost makes the “squeaky clean” category. There were a few minced oaths used as well as a reference to a “youthful rebellion” stage of someone getting pregnant out of wedlock. Nothing too detailed, but it’s enough to lead your mind there.


Romance content… was not super strong in this book. There was a hint of a romance triangle, the aforementioned reference to pregnancy of wedlock, and some interested, but the romance felt natural and not overriding the entire book.


If you like a hint of mystery balanced with strong character-driven plots, you’ll enjoy this book.


3.5 stars.


*I received this book from the author and happily provided my honest review*



ABOUT THE BOOK

Alexa Hartfield. Author, local celebrity, fashion connoisseur. She chose Fairbury for its close proximity to Rockland, its small town atmosphere, and its low crime rate.

Then someone made her life a literary cliché. A mysterious accident with a light bulb sparked an interesting idea for her latest novel—and for Fairbury’s new serial killer. The first replication infuriated her. The second left an even worse taste in her mouth. The third blasted more than her self-confidence, and the fourth beat her down so far she’s considering giving up writing completely. 


Who is killing Fairbury’s citizens, and furthermore, why and how are they using her novels to do it?



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Chautona Havig lives and writes in California’s Mojave Desert with her husbnd and five of her nine children. Through her novels, she hopes to encourage Christians in their walk with Jesus.

Blog Stops

July 28: Bigreadersite
August 1: Mommynificent
August 3: Carpe Diem

First Line Friday and Giveaway | A Name Unknown

Published on by Amanda Tero12 Comments
Happy Friday! I’m super excited to share a book that’s been on my TBR list as soon as I heard about it!!

Seriously, the whole first page of this book is intriguing. But, I’ll stick to the first line. 😉

Before I get into all of the “goodies” with reviews and about the book and all that amazing stuff (which you’ll want to read), be sure to hop along to all of these other blogs and see what First Lines they have to share! Please note that I may not fully endorse all of the books that these bloggers read or the content in these blogs.
Rachel – Bookworm Mama
Andi – Radiant Light
Robin – Robin’s Nest
Kathleen – Kathleen Denly
Trisha – Joy of Reading
Jeanette – CJane Read
Rebecca – https://reviewsbyvandaniker.wordpress.com/
Iola – http://www.iolagoulton.com/category/firstlinefriday/

MY REVIEW
I tried really hard not to fan-girl over this book. I have enjoyed all of Roseanna White’s books that I’ve read so far. This was no exception. I did figure out the main plot and resolution fairly quickly, but the tale was so exciting that it kept me turning pages nonetheless.
I loved Peter’s stutter. I found it unusual and it added a lot to his story. I also appreciated how he was portrayed as good, yet he had his annoying faults. And… I loved what he did. Let’s just say I could fully identify and grinned at all of scenes in which he was doing this activity.
Rosemary was a great character who was raised in the ghettos of London, stole for a living, yet was not so set in her ways that she was a horrible person.
The Christian theme was woven throughout the story, but it seemed a little weak for me. For example, I know that a person doesn’t have to say a specific prayer to be saved, but it was like, “Do you believe?” The character said yes. She was told, “Welcome to the family!” No prayer was said. That just seemed odd.
The romance was hidden until the ending, and then it kind of had a lot with the feelings and emotions. Yet overall, I found it to have less romance than White’s other books that I’ve read.
*I received this book from CelebrateLit and happily provided my honest review*

About the Book

Book title: A Name Unknown  
Author: Roseanna M. White  
Release date: July 4, 2017  
Genre: Historical Romance  

She’s Out to Steal His Name. Will He Steal Her Heart Instead? Rosemary Gresham has no family beyond the band of former urchins that helped her survive as a girl in the mean streets of London. Grown now, they are no longer pickpockets—now they focus on high value items and have learned how to blend into upper-class society. Rosemary’s challenge of a lifetime comes when she’s assigned to determine whether a certain wealthy gentleman is loyal to Britain or to Germany. How does one steal a family’s history, their very name? As Europe moved closer to World War I, rumors swirl around Peter Holstein. Awkward and solitary, but with access to the king, many fear his influence. But Peter can’t help his German last name and wants to prove his loyalty to the Crown—so he can go back to anonymously writing a series of popular adventure novels. When Rosemary arrives on his doorstop pretending to be a well- credentialed historian, Peter believes she’s the right person to help him dig through his family’s past. When danger and suspicion continue to mount, though, and both realize they’re in a race against time to discover the truth—about Peter’s past and about the undeniable attraction kindling between them.

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

Roseanna M. White pens her novels beneath her Betsy Ross flag, with her Jane Austen action figure watching over her. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two children, editing and designing, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of over a dozen historical novels and novellas, ranging from biblical fiction to American-set romances to her British series. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to make their way into her novels…to offset her real life, which is blessedly boring. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.RoseannaMWhite.com.

Guest Post from Roseanna White

It’s always a challenge to make a historical setting authentic—especially when it’s set in a region you’ve only ever read about. As I was writing A Name Unknown, I learned so much about Cornwall—all the more when I had the opportunity to visit the gorgeous Penzance region while the book was still in edits! I quickly learned that I had far too many trees in my story, and hadn’t quite captured the uniqueness of the coastal setting. I dove into rewrites with excitement and gusto, ready to make my fictional Cornwall more like the real one. I studied the Cornish accent, Cornish foods, typical Cornish coloring in hair and eyes. I’ve now gotten rather proficient at making pasties (beef hand pies) from scratch, I’ve special-ordered ingredients to make Cornish ginger cookies called fairings, and I’ve spent quite a lot of time listening to videos of people speaking in a Cornish accent. Delving into this rich region and its history was a blast! And I’m so excited to get to share the culture of Cornwall—and a taste of their unique flavors—with you. In a special Celebrate Lit giveaway, I’ll be offering not only a signed copy of my book, but also some homemade ginger fairings! Here’s the recipe I used . . . after special ordering the Mixed Spice (reminiscent of pumpkin pie spice) and Golden Syrup (a thick syrup with a bit of a toffee flavor) from Amazon. 😉 (I have a gram scale so did use the weight measurements rather than volume—also, English teaspoons and tablespoons are a bit bigger than American, so I heaped them, and I turned out deliciously.) GINGER FAIRINGS RECIPE 100 grams butter, cold and diced 225 grams all-purpose flour ¼ heaping teaspoon salt 2 heaping teaspoons baking powder 2 heaping teaspoons baking soda 1 heaping teaspoon ginger 2 heaping teaspoons mixed spice 100 grams superfine (caster) sugar 4 heaping tablespoons golden syrup Preheat oven to 375 F. Grease baking sheets or line with parchment paper. Combine flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and spices in a stand mixer. Add the butter and beat until mixture forms coarse crumbs. Stir in sugar. In a small saucepan, warm the golden syrup until it’s clarified a bit; stir into the flour mixture until a dough forms. Roll the dough into walnut sized balls and put on prepared baking sheets a few inches apart. Bake 8-10 minutes, until golden. Cool a few minutes on the trays and then transfer to a cooling rack.

Giveaway

To celebrate this tour, Roseanna is giving away a grand prize of a paperback copy of A Name Unknown & 2 dozen cookies from Roseanna!!! Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/bc0e

Blog Stops

July 20: Genesis 5020
July 21: Pause for Tales
July 22: Bigreadersite
July 23: Vicky Sluiter
July 24: Pursuing Stacie
July 25: Live.Love.Read.
July 26: Carpe Diem
July 27: cherylbbookblog
July 27: Splashes of Joy
July 31: Cafinated Reads
July 31: Artistic Nobody

First Line Friday | Over Maya Dead Body

Published on by Amanda Tero10 Comments

Today’s read… if you’re a mystery fan, you will want this book!! But, heads’-up, you’ll want to get the first two books first. 😉 At any rate, here’s the first line (keep reading for my review too).

“I snatched my bag off the luggage carousel at Boston’s Logan International Airport and plunked it next to my parents as a sticky-fingered urchin tried to liberate the brightly colored ribbons I’d tied to the handles.”
(Over Maya Dead Body by Sandra Orchard)

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Also, be sure to hop along to all of these other blogs and see what First Lines they have to share!
Please note that I may not fully endorse all of the books that these bloggers read or the content in these blogs.
Rachel – Bookworm Mama
Andi – Radiant Light
Robin – Robin’s Nest
Kathleen – Kathleen Denly
Trisha – Joy of Reading
Jeanette – CJane Read

MY REVIEW
If you’re wondering if this book can be jumped into without the other two books having been read…read the others first. I’m not going to give anything away, but a lot of things in this book would have a more powerful punch if you’ve gotten to know some of the characters in previous books.

That being said, yes, I read this book without having read the other two Serena Jones books. I picked up on the threads that I likely missed (so it CAN be read as a stand-alone, but references to past books make me want to read them) and enjoyed the book overall.
As a mystery… five stars hands down! My brain was swirling with the “whodunit” and I didn’t piece together things as quickly as Serena did (which I liked; I like a good mystery that has me puzzling all of the way through).
As a Christian book… eh… it is very, very clean. There were no parts that made me cringe, no unacceptable language. God was mentioned, prayer was said. But overall as a Christian book, it wasn’t a very strong one. What stood out to me far more was the romance.
As a romance… there was a love triangle (hides face). I don’t like love triangles! But, this one ended happily for me, cause she ended up with the guy I shipped. That being said, there was a kiss, and almost-kiss. There were a LOT of feelings. I mean, Serena has two guys she likes and they both definitely like her, and she’s confused as to which to choose. So yeah. If you don’t like love triangles, you may not want to read this.
Overall though, I’d give this book 4.5 stars. I enjoyed the style (first-person contemporary is something I’m finding I enjoy), the mystery, and the cleanness of this book (I’ve read some more strictly “Christian” books that made me cringe more than this book).
*I received this book from Revell books and happily provided my honest review*

ABOUT THE BOOK

FBI Special Agent Serena Jones arrives on Martha’s Vineyard with her family, ready for a little bit of R&R and a whole lot of reminiscing as they celebrate the engagement of an old family friend. But crime doesn’t take a vacation, and she’s soon entangled in an investigation of a suspicious death tied to an antiquities smuggling ring.

When her investigation propels her into danger, Serena must stay the course and solve this case before anyone else dies. But just how is she supposed to do that when the two men in her life arrive on the scene, bringing with them plenty of romantic complications–and even a secret or two?


Award-winning author Sandra Orchard keeps readers guessing with this fast-paced mystery laced with romance.

You may buy the book here.

Find out more about Sandra Orchard here.

First Line Friday, Blog Tour, and Giveaway | Dreams and Devotion

Published on by Amanda Tero10 Comments

Today I’m excited to feature another new-release! The Tales of Taelis series is a great children’s series with solid, Christian principles.

Here is the first line:

Dara pushed a strand of hair, the color of a crow’s wing,
back into the cloth that kept it out of her face. She stared
off toward the snow-covered hills, glistening in morning light.
(Dreams and Devotion by Sarah Holman) 

Before I share my review and all the other fun stuff of a blog tour… hop over and see what the other FLF bloggers have to share! Also, comment and share a first line for today!

Rachel – Bookworm Mama
Andi – Radiant Light
Robin – Robin’s Nest
Kathleen – Kathleen Denly
Trisha – Joy of Reading
Jeanette – CJane Read

MY REVIEW

This was a sobering story, filled with true-to-life heartache and choices amidst hardship. I appreciated the lessons that Dara and Dresden learned about forgiveness and trust.

I know it was true to the time, but some people may be hesitant to read this because Dresden was a priest. In ways it was true to the Catholic priests of that era in that he vowed to never marry and to hold the church’s needs above his own, yet the message of salvation through grace alone and not works was clearly presented. It was definitely evangelical and not works-based-salvation. That would be one thing I’d like to address with younger readers as they read the book so they wouldn’t be confused about the doctrines portrayed here vs. traditional doctrines of priests.

As with the other books in this series, it makes a great children’s book with a simplistic style and easy to understand lessons.

*I received this book from the author and happily provided my honest review.*


ABOUT THE BOOK
Some dreams will be dashed, and their devotion will be tested.
Dara’s life is full of farm work and worries, especially now that her older brother is a priest in a far off city. Yet she still has time to dream of the life she hopes will someday be. She dreams of marrying her dear friend and the worries of her family ending. Now, the selfishness of one person threatens her very way of life.

Dresden’s initial excitement about living a life devoted to the service of God quickly is dashed on the rocks of reality. The life of a priest is nothing like what he imagined. To make matters worse, he finds out his family back in his home village is on the brink of disaster. Torn between his vows and his love for his family, what will he choose?

Buy the book for the special preorder price, here.

GIVEAWAY!!


Enter HERE

About the Sarah
Sarah Holman is a not so typical mid-twenties girl: A homeschool graduate, sister to six awesome siblings, and author of many published books and short stories. If there is anything adventuresome about her life, it is because she serves a God with a destiny bigger than anything she could have imagined.

Stops on the blog tour:
July 8
July 9
His Princess Warrior ~ Katie Hamilton
July 10
In the Book Case ~ Tarissa Graves
Jessica Greyson ~ Jessica Greyson
July 11
Read Another Page ~Rebekah Morris
July 12
Shannon McDermott ~ Shannon McDermott
July 13
The Page Dreamer ~ Deborah O’Carroll
July 14
Knitted by God’s Plans ~ Kendra E. Ardnek
With a Joyful Noise ~ Amanda Tero
Once Upon an Ordinary ~ Kate Willis
July 15

Jaye L. Knight ~ Jaye L. Knight

First Line Friday and Review | Heart on the Line

Published on by Amanda Tero6 Comments

Happy Friday! I finally got around to reading my first Karen Witemeyer book–and I enjoyed it! How many of you have read Karen Witemeyer? What do you consider your favorite of hers?

The cheerful tinkle of the bell alerted Grace Mallory to the arrival of a guest.
(Heart on the Line by Karen Witemeyer)


~*~*~
Also, be sure to hop along to all of these other blogs and see what First Lines they have to share!
Please note that I may not fully endorse all of the books that these bloggers read or the content in these blogs.
Rachel – Bookworm Mama
Andi – Radiant Light
Robin – Robin’s Nest
Kathleen – Kathleen Denly
Trisha – Joy of Reading
Jeanette – CJane Read


MY REVIEW
This was my first Karen Witemeyer book to try (which, I discovered after finishing it that it’s a book two–but it reads perfectly as a stand-alone). My first impression? I’ll be looking forward to reading more by her!

Amos and Grace being telegraph operators was fascinating. Their use of Morse code was a priceless touch to the story.

I enjoyed the hint of mystery and suspense in this book. It wasn’t overpowering, but enough to add a spice of intrigue. Who was after Grace and what measures were they willing to take to reach her? Who are the mysterious men who suddenly appear in a women’s-only colony (okay, a “woman’s colony” plus two men who made their way into the group)? At the same time, Grace was a little too smart for the book to hold much suspense. I figured out immediately who the two newcomers around town were, and not long after I did, Grace “sensed” the truth about the newcomer she met. So it spoiled the thrill that could have been there, in my opinion. I still enjoyed seeing how my surmisings were accurate and how the story would play out, though.

The Christian aspect was there. The characters quoted Bible verses and prayed, trying to seek God. It seemed to be a part of the characters’ lives, not just “added into the story.” It wasn’t the strongest Christian-themed message but it *was* very visible, with messages on fully trusting God, accepting His wisdom in what He allows, and quoting Scripture for strength.

And of course, romance. This is a Christian Historical Romance book. From the beginning, both Amos and Grace yearned for a spouse and when God would send “the one.” There was a whole-page description of a kiss (I kid you not, it took the entire page), and the other kisses were also fairly in-depth described. The romance didn’t steal the whole show, but it was definitely one of the strongest threads in the story, and though the characters did pray about God during their interest in another person, it still had a lot about the feelings leading their decision. There were a couple of comments mentioned that led to more sensual thoughts of “more than a kiss.” So yeah. A bit of romance, which is what I had expected. I was fearing that one of the women may be abused/forced but thankfully that didn’t happen (for those who are curious about that aspect).

I really enjoyed the flow of the story. As a writer, I try to shut off my editor-brain and read as a reader; and when I find a book that I enjoy as a writer, I’m doubly happy. This was one of those books. It just seemed to have a good balance and was the type of book that lent to a much-needed “just relax and read” weekend.

*I received this book from Bethany House and happily provided my review*

ABOUT THE BOOK
Grace Mallory is tired of running, of hiding. But when an old friend sends an after-hours telegraph transmission warning Grace that the man who has hunted her for nearly a year has discovered her location, she fears she has no choice. She can’t let the villain she believes responsible for her father’s death release his wrath in Harper’s Station, the town that has sheltered her and blessed her with the dearest friends she’s ever known. 

Amos Bledsoe prefers bicycles to horses and private conversations over the telegraph wire to social gatherings with young ladies who see him as nothing more than an oddity. His telegraph companion, the mysterious Miss G, listens eagerly to his ramblings every night and delights him with tales all her own. For months, their friendship–dare he believe, courtship?–has fed his hope that he has finally found the woman God intended for him. Yet when he takes the next step to meet her in person, he discovers her life is in peril, and Amos must decide if he can shed the cocoon of his quiet nature to become the hero Grace requires. 


PURCHASE HERE.