Honor's Reward (Rocky Mountain Legacy, Book 5) by Kristen Heitzmann

 

 

     I am sad to say farewell to this wonderful and engaging series, not to mention it's characters!  I just finished Book 5 and I am left with a happy, content and peaceful feeling.  A wonderful conclusion! This is a series I will not only recommend, but one I plan to read again in the future. 

 

    Book 5 is filled with all the drama, action, romance and good truths that have been scattered all throughout this series.  This was another page turner!  Sorry, I am just in such a happy and mellow place after finishing this book, that I am at a loss for all the right words.  But suffice it to say, that yes, there are hardships; yes, there are losses and gains; yes, there is love and sacrifice; and yes, there is a good ending, but also, so much more!  Read this series and fly through many emotions, truths and come away as I did well pleased and thoughtful. Bravo, Kristen Heitzmann on a well done book and series! Many thanks!



Honor's Disguise (Rocky Mountain Legacy, Book 4) by Kristen Heitzmann

     One things for sure, life with Abbie is never dull!  Book 4 packed in more adventure, suspense, drama and romance topped off with some life lessons on faith.  This isn't my favorite book in the series, but it is a REALLY good read.  Obviously, since I zoomed through it in a matter of hours today! I can't wait to see what happens next in Book 5!

 

Honor's Quest (Rocky Mountain Legacy, Book 3) by Kristen Heitzmann

         Another great novel, not only in this series but in general! While the first part of this book is not as action packed as book 2 it adds more depth and interest to our story and the characters/relationships. A little over half way through however you are sure to encounter a pivotal point in the story and one that will cause pain and upheaval for our characters, and hopefully will bring a growth in faith. When tragedy strikes who do we look to? Do we trust in God, His love and goodness or do we become angry and bitter? As much as we think we can take care of ourselves and handle things we are desperately in need of The Lord. Will we allow pride and fear to rule us? These are issues that are faced in book 3.

    This is one of those books that has you thinking about it long after you set it down or finish it.  It lingers with you and excites you for the next book. If you are searching for a humorous and light read, in which life is idyllically perfect, then this is not the book for you. However, if you are looking for a novel filled with drama and surprises that leave you devouring the pages then pick this one up. I like that Heitzmann isn't afraid to risk offending some by taking some risk with her stories and doing the unexpected. Her characters, their love, struggles and ultimately their faith make her novels ones I could read over and over again. These stories and characters come to life, and take root in your heart and mind. I can't wait to read book 4! 

   

Honor's Price (Rocky Mountain Legacy, Book 2) by Kristen Heitzmann

 

 

     I have to say that I enjoyed Book 2 in this series just as much as Book 1.  The drama and suspense are upped in this one, and you can't help but fly through the pages!  I can't imagine how on edge those who first read this series must have been, as the following books in the series hadn't been released yet.  I am so glad I have the books handy and don't have to wait to see how things will play out, while waiting on a release date! 

 

    I could tell in this one that Heitzmann was already laying down some ground work for the next few books in relation to Cole.  That said, she had plenty of excitement laid out in this book.  Between relational issues, threats, danger and more you never have a dull moment!  Another great read... I'm so ready for Book 3!

 

 



Honor's Pledge (Rocky Mountain Legacy, Book 1) by Kristen Heitzmann

 

 

    I just finished this wonderful novel by Heitzmann and it left me thrilled!  Drama, faith, love, honor and so much more play out in this well written novel, that leaves me eager for Book 2.

 

    Seriously, this book has so much to recommended it!   Our heroine, Abbie, is sure to capture your heart.  She is a free spirit, honest, loving and she just shines.  There is a wonderful ensemble of characters in this book and plenty of drama going about to keep you eagerly devouring the pages.  Honor and love, which do you esteem higher?  Are they separate or can they be as one?  What would you do if you had to choose?  All these questions and many more arise, as you fly through this novel. 

 

     I like that in this novel everything isn't perfect.  There are struggles, hurts, times to love and times to forgive... Just as in real life we can't always see the good but we must trust God above all else and let Him work things together for good.  He is faithful and He is good.

 

     This one is definitely a keeper for me!  I hope you will enjoy it too!

 

 



The Dancing Master by Julie Klassen

 

     I was thrilled when The Dancing Master arrived on my door step earlier than anticipated! Klassen writes beautiful novels, and I haven't found one yet that hasn't been delightful!  She has written another classic, one I am sure you will want to keep and read again.  Filled with all the drama and insights of character, love, pride, relationships, forgiveness, faith and more.

 

     I will say that this is a story that lures you in, giving you hints at the mysterious past of several characters and how these secrets affect many in the now.  By chapter 7, you should be hooked and have enough hints that you are starting to piece parts of the puzzle together. This only brings the story more to life and lends excitement, as you eagerly anticipate seeing how things will unfold and work out. 

 

    The story is well written, well paced and filled with delightful characters.  Julia somewhat reminds me of Scarlett O'Hara.  She is willful, selfish, spoiled and quiet the flirt.  However, there is more to her than that; she is also a loyal, brave young woman, who longs for approval and love.  She definitely keeps the story interesting!

 

    For fans of Julie Klassen this is sure to be a delight and for those that have never read one of Julie Klassen's novels, this is a good one to start with.  If you like Jane Austen novels, then you should pick this one up!

   

Dare to Love Again (The Heart of San Francisco, Book 2) by Julie Lessman

 

 

    To say I was thrilled when this book arrived early on my door step would not not be an exaggeration!  I couldn't wait to start reading it, knowing that I had a good read in my hands.  Julie Lessman hasn't let me down and is a wonderful & talented writer.

I do have to say that when I received her newsletter and read her statement "...this sweet and funny love story that I will warn you, is the sweetest, least passionate of all my books, which means there are very few kisses, but LOTS of romantic tension!", I was curious as to how this story would play out, but never fear it is absolutely delightful!

 



    Dare to Love Again is sweetly exciting and such a wonderful story! As usual there are great characters that just come to life and jump right off the pages and into your heart.  Lessman is a pro at providing not only a hero and heroine that steal your heart but a whole cast of characters as well. For fans of Lessman's Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change Series, this new series is sure to be a hit!

 

    I really loved Allison and Nick's romance, that had at times tempers and tongues a flying (in smart and witty ways), a blossoming attraction and of course love soaring... Lessman kept it interesting!   Logan and Cait's story continues to enthrall you, leaving you eagerly anticipating more. I read several hints at future books that have me excited and so ready to read their stories! 

 

Bravo Lessman, another novel that's a keeper!

The Wedding Game: a novel by Amy Matayo

Amy Matayo's first novel is a success!  I loved the wit, the humor, the characters and the story.  I absolutely devoured this book last night and stayed up way too late to do so, but I just couldn't put it down.  I wasn't sure how I would like a book about a reality show marriage but Matayo made this not only interesting but one that pulls you in and has you rushing to the end, all the while wanting to slow down because you don't want it to end.  I am still thinking about this story today! Yes, it was that good.

This is a Christian fiction novel.  That said, it isn't a preachy book, nor one where it is a predominant theme.  However, faith, God, and prayer are all mentioned intermittently throughout the book. 

I so thoroughly enjoyed this read that it seems torturous now to have to wait for her next novel!  Buy this one but be prepared to not want to put it down once you start. 

The Kindling (Age of Faith, Book 4) by Tamara Leigh

I just finished reading The Kindling and have to say, as excited as I was for it to be released, I am even more excited having finished it.  My only regret is that it is over; try as I might to savor and slow down while reading it, it was just too good to not speed through. 

Leigh is delightfully, wonderful at weaving a tale of love, suspense, faith and romance.  Her characters are so well written and I love the interplay between them.  The character development (spiritually, morally and emotionally) and the relationships are well thought out and engaging, bringing the story more depth and life. 

I don't even know what else to say, except read it!  I am as pleased as punch that I did. (wink)  Now, I am eagerly awaiting Book 5 - yay!  This series has been SO good and it seems to only get better!

Against the Tide by Elizabeth Camden

Against the Tide is the first book I have read by Camden.  I believe it was a good start!  This read was informative, interesting, with well done characters and plot.  Camden delivers nicely part intrigue, suspense, and romance, with characters that come to life.  All the while teaching us about Naval history, orphans and the early and legal use of Opium in our Country's history. 

I have to say I would love to see Camden continue Admiral Fontaine's story in another novel!  All the way around a good read.

The Captive Maiden by Melanie Dickerson

The Captive Maiden is a retelling of the Cinderella story but without the magic.  If you have read my previous posts on Dickerson's fairytale based books you will notice that they have all been favorable.  I am loathe to say it, but this one just wasn't as good.  I found it to be really cheesy and not as realistic as the other stories but more over the top.  Since this is the first paperback copy of Dickerson's writing that I have purchased, I can not speak to the other e-novels I read, but I noticed after finishing this book, on the back cover it says it is Teen Fiction.  This may explain the lean towards cheesy and perfectionist type characters.  As a Teen book maybe this is more in line with that age group.

I did find that Dickerson was quiet handy at retelling the tale and that part was interesting.  My issue was more with the characters and how I felt that the Author continued to try to impress upon you, their perfection.  Perfect hero, perfect heroine and perfect ending.  I did not like how I was continually reminded of the hero's goodness and his strengths.  I would rather let the story and his actions within tell me that, than it be written in repeatedly. 

The only fault that was put in, was the hero's battle with pride.  Not haughty pride but that he was prideful in wanting to always be the best and in wanting to rely on his own strengths and not God.

Don't get me wrong, I like a good romance and a little mush is fine but I love character development!  Seeing the characters in their weaknesses and strengths.  Seeing the development and growth of not just their relationship/romance but also of themselves.  I just didn't really find that in this novel. 

For some out there this might just be the perfect read for you... For me it left me wanting more.

All for a Story by Allison Pittman

You may have noticed I haven't posted much lately.  I have been reading... some books just did not inspire me to post on them at all and some I have want to mention but have been too busy and traveling, so have put it off till now.  So please forgive me as I post on this book and the next few, since it has been a few weeks since I read them.

I have to say that I liked this book but not as much as the previous book (All for a Song).  The story was a little slow going at first but still enjoyable, further into the book it does pick up pace.  Along with the pace, the humor and draw of the characters lure you further in. Monica is a fun loving, witty and at times reckless "Monkey".  She encompasses a dame, who thoroughly enjoys the roaring twenties.   Max, who you will really like, is a good, strong male character.  He is steady, honorable and has a heart of gold. 

The story ends well, but not in a - everything is wrapped up nice and pretty bow.  Pittman leaves some things to be worked out  in your imagination but with hope that all is good forthcoming. 

Pittman nicely touches on the topics of identity, grace, sacrifice, salvation, family and more, all without being preachy but thoughtful.  A good read.

All for a Song by Allison Pittman



    Great storytelling from Pittman, both engaging and fresh!  Pittman brings life to both her characters, the story and the time period.  I eagerly poured over the pages, looking for hints as to the outcome of Dorothy Lynn's choices.  Where would Dorothy Lynn end up? And with whom?  Is she vainly chasing after the wind or is there a bigger purpose being served in all of this?

   This is a story of faith, love, and hope.  One where our heroine questions life, her purpose, her dreams and the desires that tug at her inside.  She seems to be always hoping and eager for more; all the while craving the safety of the known world she lives in.  As you progress through the story there are many interesting things to ponder.  One good example being the choices we make or the paths we choose.  Some paths seem to be clearly lite and some seem to be dark (right and wrong), however there are some paths that are not as easy to discern.  When facing these multiple choices, what do we do?  Do we pray and go to God's Word? Do we go where our desires are?  The bible does say that the heart is deceitful.  So what or in Whom do we trust? 

    We are gifted with abilities and talents but how we use them is part of what this story is about.  We can be faced with choices that both seem to be good.  Both can be used of the Lord.  However, God knows the purpose He created us for.  Is our longing from Him?  Or is our longing pride wrapped up to look nice? These are all wonderful truths that this story pulls out to examine.  

    I have to say that I am still thinking about this story a day after finishing it.  Thinking about not just the main characters but some secondary ones as well.  I would love for this story to continue.  I am starting Pittman's book, All for a Story next and wondering if any of these other characters will make an appearance!  I would be delighted ... if not could there be another book?! May I just suggest - All for a Dance, has a nice ring to it!

Wishing you enjoyable and reflective reading!

One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are by Ann Voskamp

Description:
MP3 CD– Audiobook, MP3 Audio, Unabridged - Read by the Author
    What it means to be … deeply human … deeply spiritual … deeply and authentically fulfilled Like most listeners, Ann Voskamp hungers to live her one life well. Forget the bucket lists about once-in-a-lifetime experiences. “How,” Voskamp wondered, “do we find joy in the midst of deadlines, debt, drama, and daily duties? What does a life of gratitude look like when your days are gritty, long, and sometimes dark? What is God providing here and now?” A beautifully practical guide to living a life of joy, One Thousand Gifts invites you to wake up to God’s everyday blessings. As Voskamp discovered, in giving thanks for the life she already had, she found the life she’d always wanted. Following Voskamp’s grace-bathed reflections on her farming, parenting, and writing life, you will embark on a transformative spiritual discipline of chronicling gifts. Along the way, you will discover a way of seeing that opens your eyes to gratitude, a way of living so you are not afraid to die, and a way of becoming present to God’s presence that brings deep and lasting happiness.

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     Instead of purchasing this as a book, I got this as an audio book to listen to on a long road trip.  The Author's voice and reading are soothing and poignant.  Her writing style leans towards the poetic.  For some this may be an issue, for others they will see the beauty in her writing and her view on life.  While I have listened to many great examples and truths from this book, taking and applying them to my life... I find that I wish I would have rather purchased this as a book or study.  Not that this hasn't been good.  But that rather, I wish I had the ebook with the audio added.  Just so I could, if I chose, read the words and even read faster than the audio.

    Ann Voskamp writes poetically and speaks from deep truths and trials based on her own life experiences. She bears forth, from the simplicity of life and everyday examples these deep hidden truths that point us continually to God's love and a heart overflowing with thankfulness. She shows us that even in moments where there is deep hurt and uncertainty, we should look to God and remember His goodness, His faithfulness, Him sovereignty in control and planning and working all things together for our good.  We are to give thanks and then as she says "comes the miracle". Believe, give thanks and then taste and see that -yes, God is good. Yes, He does work all things together for our good.  The question is, will we believe Him; will we believe His promises even amidst the hardest circumstances?

    One Thousand Gifts is filled with poignancy, truth and experience pouring out and encouraging you to live life to the fullest.  To live in thankfulness and to experience the wonder of God.  I do recommend this book and hope that you will let it touch and awaken you to living out the truths found within.

    "...give thanks is an action and rejoice is a verb and these are not mere pulsing emotions. While I may not always feel joy. God asks me to give thanks in all things because he knows the feeling of joy begins in the action of thanksgiving. " - Ann Voskamp

The Redeeming (Age of Faith Series, Book 3) by Tamara Leigh

Book Description:
    The Unveiling and The Yielding, the first two books in the Age of Faith series, introduced readers to the formidable Wulfrith family during Duke Henry’s battle for England’s throne and his succession. Now that Henry wears the crown, he is more determined than ever to bring the Wulfriths to heel.

IN THE EYES OF THE CHURCH AND MEN, HERS IS NO SMALL SIN

Lady Gaenor Wulfrith is a woman scorned. And King Henry’s pawn. After three broken betrothals, she is ordered to wed her family’s enemy, a man she has never met and has good reason to fear. Faced with the prospect of an abusive marriage that will surely turn worse when her sin is revealed, she flees her family’s home with the aid of a knight—a man who could prove her ruin.

Christian Lavonne, the only remaining heir to the barony of Abingdale, has thrown off his monk’s robes—and God—to minister his lands. Determined to end the devastation wrought by his family’s feud with the Wulfriths, he agrees to marry his enemy’s sister, a woman no man seems to want. When he learns she has fled with a knight who has broken fealty with the Wulfriths, he pursues her, knowing that when they meet his own sin will be revealed and he will be as much in need of redemption as the woman who may carry another man’s child.

 

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    Ms. Leigh's 3rd book in the Age of Faith series was another captivating, page- turner! The characters and their story leap off the page and have you eager to read more.   Gaenor Wulfrith and Christian Lavonne must learn many lessons along the way, one of them being to learn to trust each other and even more importantly to trust God.  They must also learn lessons on giving and receiving forgiveness.  I found the spiritual messages and truths nicely tucked throughout this tale, were great reminders for us in our everyday lives.  As well as a reminder of our Lord, Who first loved us, even when we were still in our sin.

      I have truly enjoyed this series and I am VERY eager for Book 4 to come out! Also, I am secretly hoping Leigh might add a few more books to the series.  I can think of three other characters right now, of which I would like to see the rest of their stories unfold.  I think that says something good about her writing.  So, if you are interested in a good, clean, medieval romance, dashed with some action and suspense, then look no further, this is the series for you!

The Yielding (Age of Faith Series, Book 2) by Tamara Leigh

Book Description:
     The Unveiling, the first book in the Age of Faith series, introduced readers to the formidable Wulfrith family during Duke Henry’s battle for England’s throne in 1153. Now, four years later, Henry wears the crown, but the Wulfriths are no less defiant—and no more amenable to forging alliances through king-decreed marriage.

SHE HAD KILLED A MAN. OR SO IT WAS SAID…

Convent-bound Lady Beatrix Wulfrith is determined to aid her sister in escaping marriage to their family’s enemy. Unaware of the sacrifice that awaits her, she leads their pursuers astray only to meet with an accident that forever alters her destiny and takes the life of a young knight whose brother vows he will not rest until the lady is brought to justice.

Lord Michael D’Arci is a warrior and a womanizer whose foul mouth and impatience bode ill for all who trespass against him. Falsely accused of ravishment years earlier, he refuses to believe Lady Beatrix’s accusations against his deceased brother. However, when he finds himself at the mercy of that same woman who clings to her convictions and faith even when it threatens to prove her undoing, his quest for justice wavers.

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     Leigh has once again created a masterfully woven, medieval tale!  This one not only held my interest but has planted seeds and excitement for the next book in the series.  Since I had already read the description of Book 3, I kept trying to figure out how the circumstances in this book were leading into the next.  I am sure you will find this book to be a page turner, just as I did. It is exciting, romantic and dashed with suspense, a sure crowd pleaser.

 

    Lady Beatrix is a strong and likable main character.  Leigh has no problem writing good characters, with depth and the ability for you to care about them and see them come to life off the page.  I liked seeing the character development of Lord Michael D'Arci and the way Leigh wove the seeds of faith and truth throughout this novel.  There was one point in the story, where I thought Leigh might take the relationship between the two characters in a direction I was not comfortable with but needless to say just a few paragraphs later my fears were relieved.  I really enjoyed this novel and look forward to the next book... I see where a book 4 is in the works but it isn't listed online yet for pre-order but I have a feeling once it is I will be placing my order!

The Unveiling (Age of Faith Series, Book 1) by Tamara Leigh

Book Description:

12th century England: Two men vie for the throne: King Stephen the usurper and young Duke Henry the rightful heir. Amid civil and private wars, alliances are forged, loyalties are betrayed, families are divided, and marriages are made.

For four years, Lady Annyn Bretanne has trained at arms with one end in mind—to avenge her brother’s murder as God has not deemed it worthy to do. Disguised as a squire, she sets off to exact revenge on a man known only by his surname, Wulfrith. But when she holds his fate in her hands, her will wavers and her heart whispers that her enemy may not be an enemy after all.

Baron Wulfrith, renowned trainer of knights, allows no women within his walls for the distraction they breed. What he never expects is that the impetuous young man sent to train under him is a woman who seeks his death—nor that her unveiling will test his faith and distract the warrior from his purpose.

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    Well, I have to admit in my "former" reading life (prior to reading Christian fiction), although I liked several genres, one of my favorites was historical novels set in Medieval times.  So when I stumbled upon this book by Leigh, I was excited!  I am glad to say I was also not disappointed!  Leigh's novel captivated me from the beginning and relentlessly held me captive, eagerly devouring the pages.  I am sure there must have been a "Do Not Disturb" sign upon my forehead.

 

    This novel contained some intrigue, suspense and of course romance.  I might add it was a bit spicy romance too.  Nothing bad, just sizzling for Christian romance.  Our main characters are neither perfect, but aren't we all flawed, and that actually adds to the story.  It not only makes the story more realistic but interesting.  I love seeing characters develop, grow and find a deeper walk with God. 

 

    Wulfrith while in so many ways was admirable, and one you easily like as the manly hero, there was one instance that just didn't fit with his character.  Again, no one is perfect and yes, Christians do make mistakes.  I found the fact that he seemed to be so strong in faith and yet his admittance that he was not a virgin a little shocking.  I know during that time period it may have been deemed acceptable to sleep with those of the lower class/help & unmarried okay or even normal. Any way this wasn't a big deal in the story but I just wanted to throw it out there for you. 

 

    While Annyn might be a little too vengeful and reckless in the beginning, you will come to really like her character and enjoy the journey she is on.  Both the main characters and the secondary characters are well written, the plot is good AND I am really looking forward to reading the rest of this series!

   

 



Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer

Book Description:

     On his way to interview for a position at a church in the Piney Woods of Texas, Crockett Archer can scarcely believe it when he's forced off the train by a retired outlaw and presented to the man's daughter as the minister she requested for her birthday. Worried this unfortunate detour will ruin his chances of finally serving a congregation of his own, Crockett is determined to escape. But when he finally gets away, he's haunted by the memory of the young woman he left behind--a woman whose dreams now hinge on him.

For months, Joanna Robbins prayed for a preacher. A man to breathe life back into the abandoned church at the heart of her community. A man to assist her in fulfilling a promise to her dying mother. A man to help her discover answers to the questions that have been on her heart for so long. But just when it seems God has answered her prayers, it turns out the parson is there against his will and has dreams of his own calling him elsewhere. Is there any way she can convince Crockett to stay in her little backwoods community? And does the attraction between them have any chance of blossoming when Joanna's outlaw father is dead set against his daughter courting a preacher?

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     If you are looking for a lighthearted, romantic, Christian fiction read - then this is it! Witemeyer writes wonderful characters, that you not only admire but that worm their way into your heart.  A great example of this is found in Jackson, one of the secondary characters.  The main characters of course are a delight.  You can't help but enjoy their tale and seeing how, through God, all things work together for good.

 

Delightful!

 

Lacy's Lane (Book 1) by Patricia Strefling

Book Description:

     Lacy Lee Lane has just learned that Thad Gannon is coming back to town. She’s been taking care of his grandfather’s farm since he left four years ago to become a popular television star on the Hollywood soap, Malibu Mansion. When her younger sister, Allison made the announcement Lacy felt her stomach twirl. Thad Gannon had been her high school crush, until he dumped her for another girl at her first prom. She had never fully forgiven him for that, nor the fact that he had abandoned his grandfather who lived next door. Seeing him would mean digging up the past and that was not going to happen. She had buried some memories long ago deep inside and worked hard every day to keep them that way. When he arrived, Lacy was going to give him a piece of her mind . . . if she could even look him in the eye after what happened that night after the prom. - Inspirational Romance -

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     This is the first book by Patricia Strefling I have read and I really did enjoy it.  I picked it up last night and stayed up way too late finishing it.  The story plot lures you in and keeps the pages turning quickly, especially towards the end.  The characters and their story come to life and the tale is one that is not only moving but timely.

 

    Lacy's Lane tackles several subjects: loss, rape and human trafficking, to name a few.  Not only does Lacy's Lane advocate for these women but also, this book is raising money to help women trapped in human trafficking.  So not only are you purchasing a good read but also one that helps a good cause.

 

    If you read some other reviews on this book, you may notice several mentions of needed editing and such.  I read this as an ebook, so I am not sure how much of it was glitches in the conversion to ebook or just missed when going through the editing process. I have had similar issues with other ebooks.  However, a few of the areas were editing mistakes but I did not find that this was a big distraction to the story.  I did skim some through the book.  It could have been a little shorter but either way the premise and storyline was good.  The characters were well written and the subject material handled very well.

 

    I am looking forward to continuing Lacy's story in Book 2!

 



The Breath of Dawn (Book 3) by Kristen Heitzmann

   
     To say that I loved this novel does not even begin to touch how I feel about it.  I have to say that, not only is this my favorite book in the series, but also it has to be my favorite book of Heitzmann's yet.  And it has made it into my favorites list. Honestly, this book can be read as a stand alone book, but I am glad that I read the previous novels too.  I have so enjoyed getting to know all of these characters, who have come to life in my mind and whom I find it incredibly hard to say goodbye to.  I really feel as if I could pick this book up again and read it right now.  It is that good.  The Breath of Dawn is one of those books that still lingers with you after the last page.  You keep thinking about it and enjoying it ... I am not ready to start another book yet, if that tells you anything (I am an avid reader, who usually goes right from one book to another).

    I am glad that Book 2, was more of a journey story for Morgan and Jill, than a big romance book or it would have made Book 3 almost impossible to read.  As it is you really liked Jill and it is sad ... But you see Heitzmann working out some good spiritual truths through out these novels and showing God's love, healing, grace and sovereignty.  Morgan is a character that you just can't help but to love.  And Book 3 brings him not only a chance at love again but so much more. Quinn is adorable, special and very lovable. 

    This story had just the right recipe, a mix of romance with spice, faith, hope, and dashes of mystery and suspense.  It all blended together into an unforgettable story that is sure to be one you find hard to put down and one that finds a place on your keeper shelf!  Buy this one, so you can enjoy it again and again!

The Still of Night (A Rush of Wings Series #2) by Kristen Heitzmann

    I have thoroughly enjoyed this book!  Jill and Morgan's story is touching, compelling, heartfelt and sure to be a page turner!  In fact, there were a few times I felt I could skim a few paragraphs, not because the book wasn't good but because I was so anxious to see what was going to happen next and had to speed through!  This is one of those books that you hate to put down, and even when you find you have to, you will still have it running through your mind.  It was just that good!

    There are touches of romance in this story but I wouldn't really label it a romance.  It is really about so much more...  A story about a prodigal, about life, adoption, love, forgiveness, grace and the truth setting you free.  Heitzmann portrays these characters' lives, hurts, fears, hopes and journey with God, honestly, beautifully and truthfully.  It is a compelling and thoughtful story.  One that I am sure I could read again and again.  Very touching.

    In life we make choices, sometimes choices get made for us, but what it all comes down to is trusting God with our lives and the outcome.  As it said in the book "Things don't always work out the way we want.  The trick is to want the way they work out."  In another words, to want God's will more than your own.  And I believe part of that is in believing His promises.  That He does have good for us and He does work all things together for our good.  There are times in life when it seems hard to believe that, but we must cling to those promises.  He will show Himself faithful!

    Book 2 was so good, it topped Book 1 for me.  I know she wrote both of these books pretty closely together, time wise.  However, Book 3 was published about 9 years after Book 2.  Morgan's story continues and I can't wait to read it!

     SPOILER ALERT

 

 

    I want to add something about the book but in doing so know that it will reveal part of the storyline.  So, if you don't want to know - DO NOT READ ANY FURTHER! I read some reviews online prior and in one of them the person was let down that the story wasn't more of a romance between Jill and Morgan and felt that it wasn't a positive spin on adoption. I just want to say that in no way did the fact that this wasn't a big romance novel spoil the book for me.  I found it incredibly honest, touching and so good I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. 

    As to the adoption part... I do think that adoption is a wonderful thing.  A precious gift.  I applaud all those who love their child enough to give them life and hope for a better future.  In this story, Jill and Morgan are both very young when she becomes pregnant.  And Jill does what she believes is best.  But, I do think what was written is honest.  I don't think that a mother just hands over her child lightly and forgets about the child.  I do think it is quiet logical for a mother to wonder about that child and maybe as she gets older, have regrets of giving up her child.  It has to be a struggle, one where she reminds herself that she did what was best for the child at that time. And as a Christian, has to learn to give all of this to God and share her love for that child by praying.  In this book the child was given a stable and loving home with wonderful, Christian parents. 



     As for Morgan, he really wasn't given a choice.  He wanted to keep the baby and raise it.  So he struggles with that.  I don't think he is down on adoption, but just that he is so wrapped up in that fact, that he wasn't given a choice & that he didn't get to keep the baby.  He desires to be a part of this child's life and for this child to know that he loves her and that he didn't just walk away.  Yes, maybe they could have stayed together and raised her, with the help of his family - it does happen.  There are always what ifs... we can't live in what ifs, we have to live in the present with our eyes towards the future. 
    In all honesty it is a struggle.  One that is different for each person and their situation.  But I just wanted to say that I did not come away from the book feeling as if the author was down on adoption.  Just that she was expressing what her characters might think and feel in their own situation.

    All in all, I recommend this read! 

A Rush of Wings (Book 1) by Kristen Heitzmann

    This novel not only captured and held my interest, but continued to captivate me more and more, chapter by chapter.  It was very hard to put down last night when I finally made myself stop and go to bed.  The characters and plot are intriguing, well thought out and have depth to them. 

    Heitzmann brought this novel to life with just the right dose of romance, mystery and suspense.  We are all flawed and this story portrays that, while at the same time showing that there is hope, strength and more to be found within each of us... If we will allow it. Spiritually speaking this novel had some wonderful truths to dig through.  The question of: "If God is good and in control, then how can bad things still happen?".  Also, if we truly let go and trust in God, we will not only find freedom but healing as well. All of that and much more...

    I am excited to start book two! Let me add - well done!

Return to Me (The Restoration Chronicles, Book 1) by Lynn Austin

     Lynn Austin is a gifted writer and she has yet to disappoint me.  I LOVED her bible based series, Chronicles of the Kings, so I was super excited to hear that she was starting a new bible based series!  Austin has the ability to take scripture, history, and imagination, and weave them all so beautifully together, in a captivating and timeless tale. 

    I will be honest though, the first portion of the story was a much slower paced read for me.  Interesting but not gripping.  However, you know things are going to get better and sure enough you hit a point where you just can't put the book down.  The characters come to life and you can relate with their struggles.  You desire to see these people return to God and to put Him first, and you become frustrated with those who lack the faith and strength to do so.  All the while seeing that no one is perfect and yet, God still loves us all. With God it is so much more than following rules, it is about our heart! Do we find strength in following rules, do we turn from truth or do we love and depend on God?

    I believe that Austin gave us a very good depiction of the time, cultures, situations and characters with their struggles.  She portrayed life with all the good and the bad and brought forth the truth of Scripture in these circumstances. In the end I have to say, brilliantly done! I am looking forward to Book 2!

Calm, Cool & Adjusted (Book 3, Spa Girls Series) by Kristin Billerbeck

 

 

 

      I have to say this might be my favorite of the series!  Sure Poppy is quirky but she is lovable and even if you aren't into all the natural health stuff, I am sure you can relate to her in other ways.  Poppy has some things to step back and really look at.  Pride is depleting her of joy and enjoying all the blessings available to her.  She will, at some point have to pull that plank out of her eye but then don't we all at some point or another. 

 

    Not only is Poppy's journey filled with introspection and growth, but also with some pretty "hot" guys.  This will keep you guessing through most of the story as to who is really best for her and will she figure it out or continue going it alone. 

 

    I definitely sped through this one yesterday and was very happy with the outcome!  The characters, their flaws and strengths, and the story in general made for a very good read.  So pick up Book 3 to see if Poppy can make peace with her past and her present, while embracing all that God has for her now and to come.