"Lights Out," by Natalie Walters

"Lights Out," by Natalie Walters

CIA analyst Brynn Taylor developed a new program to combat terrorism, and she invited members of foreign intelligence agencies to America to foster cooperation between countries. Now one of them, Egyptian spy Remon Riad, is missing.

Jack Hudson has been working for the Strategic Neutralization and Protection Agency for almost nine years and takes the lead in hunting down the missing spy. But he isn't at all pleased to find out Brynn is involved. It's hard to trust a woman who's already betrayed you.

Every lead they follow draws them dangerously deeper into an international plot. Kidnapping, murder, explosions, poisoning--the terrorists will do anything to accomplish their goal of causing a digital blackout that will blind a strategic US military communications center and throw the world into chaos.

Can Brynn surrender control to a man who doesn't trust her? And can Jack ever get over what she did to him? The fate of the world--and their hearts--hangs in the balance.

Oh my, what a book.  This one is addictive, you HAVE to know what happens next.  The book is so fast paced, you are running to keep up with it.  Where does Natalie gets her ideas from........actually I know where she gets her ideas from as she says before chapter one:

"They always say be careful what you say around an author because it could be used in a story.

This book and series are dedicated to my friends in those three-letter agencies who were less than careful."

This is the first book in the "Snap Agency," series and what a start to the series.  There are twists and turns all along the way.  It is so realistic that you begin to question what is real and what is not real.  Could this happen in real life?  After reading this book, you begin looking at those everyday people you meet in the street.  Could they be terrorists?  Of course they could.

All the characters were well thought out.  You want to learn more about each and every one of them.

Stars out of 5 : 5 I couldn't find any fault with this book.  This is one of the best books I have read in a long time.  The next in the series is published in May of 2022.  I will be first in line for a copy of that book.

  "Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell , a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"A Deep Divide," by Kimberley Woodhouse

 "A Deep Divide," by Kimberley Woodhouse

After being kidnapped as a child, heiress Emma Grace McMurray has seen firsthand the devastation that greed causes in the world, and she wants nothing to do with it. When she discovers her father has offered her up as a bargaining chip to expand his empire, she disappears into the night. Determined to stay hidden, even if it means always looking over her shoulder, she finds herself working as a Harvey Girl at the El Tovar Hotel.

When Ray Watkins arrives at the hotel on business, he is immediately captivated by the beauty of the Grand Canyon. Though his fame-seeking father aims to lure new investors to the Arizona Territory, Ray dreams of one day taking over the family business and doing good with the profits.

Ray immediately admires Emma Grace, and though an attraction begins to form, she can't let go of the deep-rooted fear that he's just like every other wealthy man she's known. When suspicious activity follows Emma Grace and Ray to the El Tovar, they are pulled into a mystery that stirs up their worst fears. And as shocking revelations come to light, they are left to question all they thought to be true.

The first thing that comes to mind when thinking about this book is "never judge a book by it's cover."  The same goes for people, and this story is a prime example of that.  Due to past experiences in Emma Grace's life she thinks all men are the same; not to be trusted.  This story show's her that they are not all the same.  

I had never heard of "Harvey Girl's," and found that aspect of the story quite interesting.  Interesting enough, that I have looked up on the internet to find out more about them.  The author's notes at the end of the book were interesting and well worth reading.

The way the author describes the Grand Canyon is so life like you can visualize it exactly.  It's a place I have never been but would love to visit.  The El Tovar hotel is actually a real hotel, and looks lovely online.

Stars out of 5 : 4.5 Although I enjoyed the book, this book wasn't a page turner.  I read it over a few days.  It was easy enough to pick up where I had left off.  A lovely book but one I will forget about in time.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"Every Word Unsaid," by Kimberly Duffy

"Every Word Unsaid," by Kimberly Duffy 

Augusta Travers has spent the last three years avoiding the stifling expectations of New York society and her family's constant disappointment. As the nation's most fearless--and reviled--columnist, Gussie travels the country with her Kodak camera and spins stories for women unable to leave hearth and home. But when her adventurous nature lands her in the middle of a scandal, an opportunity to leave America offers the perfect escape.

Arriving in India, she expects only a nice visit with childhood friends, siblings Catherine and Gabriel, and escapades that will further her career. Instead, she finds herself facing a plague epidemic, confusion over Gabriel's sudden appeal, and the realization that what she wants from life is changing. But slowing down means facing all the hurts of her past that she's long been trying to outrun. And that may be an undertaking too great even for her.

The way Kimberly describes India in her books makes you feel as though you are right there with all the characters in the book.  It is her strong point I think where her writing is concerned.  She can describe a scene and you can visualize it right away.  I also like how she incorporates so many historical facts within the book, so you are learning something as you read.

On a more negative side though, I found the book difficult to immerse myself into until Augusta finally lands in India. The story picked up from that point and became more interesting; at least for me.

The one thing I took from this book was how words that are said to you throughout your life can have a negative impact on your life.  If those same words are repeated to you on a regular basis, those words can hurt you mentally and you have to work hard to rid yourself of them.

Stars out of 5 : 4 I found the book very hard to get into at the beginning.  It felt as though it was too long of an introduction to the characters.  India was a delight as always and the relationship between Gussie and Specs was perfect and very believable.  Well worth reading.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"Yours is the Night," by Amanda Dykes

 "Yours is the Night," by Amanda Dykes

"The trenches of the Great War are a shadowed place. Though Platoon Sergeant Matthew Petticrew arrived there with a past long marked by shadow, the realities of battle bring new wounds--carving within him a longing for light, and a resolve to fight for it.

One night, Matthew and his comrades are enraptured by a sound so pure, a voice so ethereal, it offers reprieve--even if only for a moment. Soon, rumors sweep the trenches from others who have heard the lullaby too. "The Angel of Argonne," they call the voice: a mysterious presence who leaves behind wreaths on unmarked graves.
 
Raised in the wild depths of the Forest of Argonne, Mireilles finds her reclusive world rocked when war crashes into her idyllic home, taking much from her. When Matthew and his two unlikely companions discover Mireilles, they must embark on a journey that will change each of them forever . . . and perhaps, at long last, spark light into the dark.

On the 100th anniversary of the dedication of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier comes an emotive tale inspired by the courageous soldiers of World War I."

I always feel so bad when I don't enjoy a book; unfortunately this was the case with this book.  It tells the tale of a group of soldier's that discover a woman in a forest and they take her to safety and how that journey changes all their lives.  There of course is much more to the story, but that's what it is in a nutshell!

Each chapter was written by a different character's point of view.  As there were five leading character's you had five different view points.  That was way too much for me, especially at the beginning, as it was hard to keep up with.  It took me until around chapter 12 or so; a quarter of the way through the book, to figure out who was who and what was what.  That again was way too long for me.

After that though I got into the story a bit more and I did want to continue reading the book to see what happened next.  I will say the descriptions of the conditions on the front and how those poor people had to live both soldiers and civilians was well written.

Stars out of 5 : 3 I like a book that sucks me in right away, this book didn't.  If you enjoy stories from the Great War/World War I this book is for you.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"Beyond the Tides," by Liz Johnson

"Beyond the Tides," by Liz Johnson

"When Meg Whitaker's father decides to sell the family's lobster fishing business to her high school nemesis, she sets out to prove she should take it over instead. Though she's never had any interest in running the small fleet--or even getting on a boat due to her persistent seasickness--she can't stand to see Oliver Ross in charge. Not when he ruined her dreams for a science scholarship and an Ivy League education ten years ago.

Oliver isn't proud of what he did back then. Angry and broken by his father walking out on his family, he lashed out at Meg--an innocent bystander. But owning a respected fishing fleet on Prince Edward Island is the opportunity of a lifetime, as well as a way to provide for his mother, and he's not about to walk away just because Meg wants him to.

Meg's father has the perfect solution: Oliver and Meg will work the business together, and at the end of the season, he'll decide who gets it. Along the way, they may discover that their stories are more similar than they thought . . . and their dreams aren't what they expected."

I really enjoyed this book.  The story kept moving along at a decent pace.  The main characters Oliver and Meg were very realistic and I was cheering them along throughout the story.  I know nothing about lobster fishing, so that was interesting learning about that.

Prince Edward Island is somewhere I would love to visit, and this story just made me want to visit more. There was a great deal of thought and love written into this story.

Stars out of 5 : 5 I loved it and I can't wait to read the second in the "Prince Edward Island Shores," series which is due out in the Summer of 2022

 "Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell , a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"The Lines Between Us," by Amy Lynn Green

 "The Lines Between Us," by Amy Lynn Green

"A WWII novel of courage and conviction, based on the true experience of the men who fought fires as conscientious objectors and the women who fought prejudice to serve in the Women's Army Corps.

Since the attack on Pearl Harbor, Gordon Hooper and his buddy Jack Armitage have stuck to their values as conscientious objectors. Much to their families' and country's chagrin, they volunteer as smokejumpers rather than enlisting, parachuting into and extinguishing raging wildfires in Oregon. But the number of winter blazes they're called to seems suspiciously high, and when an accident leaves Jack badly injured, Gordon realizes the facts don't add up.

A member of the Women's Army Corps, Dorie Armitage has long been ashamed of her brother's pacifism, but she's shocked by news of his accident. Determined to find out why he was harmed, she arrives at the national forest under the guise of conducting an army report . . . and finds herself forced to work with Gordon. He believes it's wrong to lie; she's willing to do whatever it takes for justice to be done. As they search for clues, Gordon and Dorie must wrestle with their convictions about war and peace and decide what to do with the troubling secrets they discover."

This book was pretty interesting, story aside.  I learned a lot about conscientious objectors, about smokejumpers, and even about the WOC.  The author's research really paid off and she wove true historical information into a very well written book.

Dorie was a bit over the top for me, but you couldn't help but like her.  What Gordon, Jack and his fellow conscientious objectors went through fighting fires they deserved praise for what they did.  The story was fast paced and it kept you interested throughout.

The mystery about Jack's accident does keep things interesting.  However, DO NOT read the author's notes until after you have read the book!!  I made the mistake of reading the author's notes around three quarters of the way through and I figured out the "mystery!"

Stars out of 5 : 4.5 It lost half a star, because the story seemed to drag at certain points.  The author's notes are really worth reading at the end, they contain a lot of information.  WWII stories are not my usual genre of books I read, so this made a lovely change for me.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"A Warrior's Heart," by Misty M. Beller

 "A Warrior's Heart," by Misty M. Beller

"Brielle Durand is still haunted by the massacre that killed her mother a dozen years before. Vowing to never let it happen again, she's risen to be the key defender for her people's peace-loving French settlement living in hidden caves in the Canadian Rockies. When a foreigner wanders too near to their secret home, she has no choice but to disarm and capture him. But now, what to do with this man who insists he can be trusted?

Hoping to escape past regrets, Evan MacManus ventured into the unknown, assigned to discover if the northern mountains contain an explosive mineral that might help America win the War of 1812. Despite being taken prisoner, Evan is determined to complete his mission. But when that assignment becomes at odds with his growing appreciation of the villagers and Brielle, does he follow through on his promise to his government or take a risk on where his heart is leading him? Either choice will cause harm to someone.

Brielle and Evan must reconcile the warring in their hearts to have any hope of finding peace for their peoples."

I had high hopes for this book, but I am afraid it didn't live up to it.  I am not sure if it was the slow pace of this story or just the lack of depth in the story, but it didn't capture my imagination.  The way this story ended just didn't make sense to me, there was a lot of loose ends that needed to be tied up.  

This is the first book in the "Brides of Laurent" series; and normally you get a complete ending with the main characters, so when you read the next in the series, you move onto another main set of characters, with the characters from the first book taking second stage.  There is still a lot of story to be told regarding Brielle and Evan.

I wished there had been some author's notes about how she came to write this book and more about Pitchblende.

Stars out of 5 : 3 I didn't hate this book, I read it through to the end, but I know I will totally forget about it soon.  It just didn't live up to my expectations.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"The Reading Group," by Elizabeth Noble

 "The Reading Group," by Elizabeth Noble

The Reading Group follows the trials and tribulations of a group of women who meet regularly to read and discuss books. Over the course of a year, each of these women’s lives becomes intertwined, both through the books they read and the real-life stories they tell.

Inspired by a shared desire for conversation, a good book and a glass of wine, Clare, Harriet, Nicole, Polly and Susan undergo startling revelations and transformations despite their difference in background, age and respective dilemmas.

In The Reading Group, Noble reveals the many complicated paths in life we all face as well as the power and importance of friendship. 

I have to say this is one of the best books I have read in a while.  You truly get immersed into the characters lives, once you have figured of who is who and what's what!  Add into info on what book they are reading each month and you have a super book, with lots of other recommendations of what to read next.

I have had mixed results being involved in book clubs; and have found they are not really my thing, but this small group of women made me think I would like to try it again, as long as it was just a few people.

Stars out of 5 : 5 I could really relate to everyone of these women in what they were going through.  Not that I have experienced what happened to them, but the way their stories were told made you think you were there with them. 

I bought this book through Book Outlet for my own personal use.  I buy a lot of books through them and if anyone else would like to buy here is my referral link: http://bookoutlet.ca/Loyalty/Referral?raf=Bop2NWm6&c=url

"The Weight of Memory," by Shawn Smucker

"The Weight of Memory," by Shawn Smucker

When Paul Elias receives a terminal diagnosis, only one thing is clear to him: if he is going to die, he must find someone to watch over his granddaughter, Pearl, who has been in his charge since her drug-addicted father disappeared. Paul decides to take her to Nysa--both the place where he grew up and the place where he lost his beloved wife under strange circumstances forty years earlier.

Paul reconnects with an old friend but is not prepared for the onslaught of memory. And when Pearl starts vanishing at night and returning with increasingly bizarre tales, Paul begins to question her sanity, his own views on death, and the nature of reality itself.

In this mesmerizing story from award-winning author Shawn Smucker, past and present mingle like opposing breezes, teasing out the truth about life, death, and sacrifice.

I am not sure what I expected from this book, but I will be honest, this book confused the heck out of me.  I was left with more questions than answers.  I was truly confused by Pearl.  Paul's memories made sense, but his illness, did not make sense......I will not go into what happens, as it will spoil the book for people who haven't read it.

The whole town of Nysa from what it was, to what it became didn't make sense.  There was a surprise I didn't see coming. Some people will love this book, I didn't.  I saw it brought someone to tears in a review I read, I didn't feel that emotion.

Stars out of 5 : 2 I read the whole book as I wanted to give it a fair review.  It just wasn't a book for me.  If anyone reads it though, and feel like explaining it too me I would appreciate that, as I was confused.

 "Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell , a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"To Find Her Place," by Susan Anne Mason

"To Find Her Place," by Susan Anne Mason

In the midst of WWII, Jane Linder pours all her energy and dreams for a family into her career at the Toronto Children's Aid Society. As acting directress, Jane hopes for a permanent appointment so she can continue making a difference in the lives of children. But if the board were to find out she is divorced, everything would change. 

Garrett Wilder has been hired to overhaul operations at the Children's Aid Society and investigate a report of misused funds. He hopes to impress the board members with his findings and earn the vacant director's position. A war injury ended his dream of taking over his parents' farm, but with the security of the director's job, he'd be able to contribute financially and help save the family business. 

Despite their competing interests and Garret's early suspicions, a friendship grows and feelings begin to blossom. But when Jane receives an unexpected opportunity that could fulfill her deepest desires, she finds herself at a crossroads. Can she discern the path to true happiness?

This book is the second book in the Redemption Series of books by Susan.  This book made you think and brought to light how WWII affected everyone.  The one thing that stood out, was the struggle to find foster parents during the war because most men were away at war.  People who were left behind were struggling and taking on extra mouths to feed during that time wasn't an option for many.

It also brings to light different attitudes that were a priority during those times; things that nowadays we would never think of.  Add in mystery and romance and it's my type of book.

Stars out of 5 : 5 This book is well worth reading.  I found it very interesting from a historical sense.  I am looking forward the next in the series, and as always please read the author's notes as they are also quite interesting.

 "Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"A Lady in Attendance," by Rachel Fordham

 "A Lady in Attendance," by Rachel Fordham

Five years in a New York state reformatory have left a blemish on Hazel's real name. So when she takes a job as Doctor Gilbert Watts's lady in attendance in 1898, she does so under an alias. In the presence of her quiet and pious employer, Hazel finds more than an income. She finds a friend and a hope that if she can set her tarnished past in order, she might have a future after all.

As Gilbert becomes accustomed to the pleasant chatter of his new dental assistant, he can't help but sense something secretive about her. Perhaps there is more to this woman than meets the eye. Can the questions that loom between them ever be answered? Or will the deeds of days gone by forever rob the future of its possibilities?

Rachel Fordham pens a tender tale of a soft-spoken man and a hardened woman, as well the friends who stand by them, as they work toward a common purpose--to expunge the record of someone society deemed beyond saving--and perhaps find love along the way.

What a lovely book, it has a bit of everything.  Great characters, a love story and a whole lot of forgiveness.  Add to it a bit of mystery and what more could you ask for?  Hazel and Gilbert are a match made in heaven, but both carry baggage that must be dealt with before true love can find it's match.  You are told a story that twists and turns and keeps you on your toes.

A perfect book to read on a hot summer's day!  As it's set in the Buffalo area, you do get some snow thrown in for good measure!!

Stars out of 5 : 4.5  It's no mystery what is going to happen.  It's one of those books I call "grocery list" books.  You can read it and think of other things at the same time.  Will I remember in the weeks to come, probably not; but all the same I enjoyed it.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell , a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"At Lighthouse Point," by Suzanne Woods Fisher

"At Lighthouse Point," by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Blaine Grayson returns to Three Sisters Island with a grand plan--to take Camp Kicking Moose to the next level. Her dream starts to unravel when she discovers Moose Manor's kitchen has been badly remodeled by her sister, Cam, who doesn't know how to cook. Added to that blow is the cold shoulder given by her best friend, Artie Lotosky, now a doctor to the unbridged Maine islands.
 
As old wounds are opened, Blaine starts to wonder if she made a mistake by coming home. Little by little, she must let go of one dream to discover a new one, opening her heart to a purpose and a future she had never imagined. 

I really enjoyed this book.  It moved at a pace to keep you interested.  I will say my favourite character had to be Jean Paul; poor Jean Paul!😄 I think he could have a book written just about him.  This is the first book I have read in the Three Sister's Island Series.  So I need to go back and read the first two.  This book works as a stand alone book as well though, so no worries there.

The whole Grayson family are such a great bunch and the way the author describes everything and everyone, you feel as though you are right there with them.  After reading this book, I feel as though there are stories left to be told, and I hope there are more books to be added to this series.

Stars out of 5 : 5 Perfect summer book.  I read it over a couple of days and I was sad to see it end.  This book made me laugh, made me fall in love with the characters, and made me want to visit Maine!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell , a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"Blackberry Beach," by Irene Hannon

"Blackberry Beach," by Irene Hannon

Katherine Parker is on the cusp of having everything she ever wanted--fame, money, and acclaim. So why isn't she happy? In search of answers, she comes incognito to Hope Harbor on the Oregon coast for some R&R. Maybe in her secluded rental house overlooking the serene Pacific she'll be able to calm the storm inside.

Coffee shop owner Zach Garrett has found his niche after a traumatic loss--and he has no plans to change the life he's created. Nor does he want to get involved with his reticent new neighbor, whose past is shrouded in mystery. But when Katherine and Zach are recruited to help rehab a home for foster children, sparks fly. As their lives begin to intersect, might they find more common ground than they expected . . . and discover that, with love, all things are possible?

This is another book in the Hope Harbor series by Irene.  Love visiting the area through Irene's novels.  This is a lovely book, that will make you happy.  A book to read over a few lazy afternoons on the beach or in the park.

As always there are a few twists and turns and I think the main theme here, is when faced with difficult decisions, do what your heart tells you to do.  Draw on your faith and don't be pressured into things you are not sure about.

I wish we could have had a couple of recipes for the truffles that Katherine makes, they sound lovely as does all the lovely goodies in the coffee shop and at the afternoon tea Katherine and Stephanie had.

Stars out of 5 : 4 It's no surprise how this book will end.  This is not a hard read, and you don't have to concentrate too hard.  When you want an easy read, this would be a perfect book.  Look forward to the next book in the series.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell , a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"Night Fall," by Nancy Mehl

 "Night Fall," by Nancy Mehl

Finally free of her troubled upbringing, Alex Donovan is able to live out her childhood dream of working for the FBI. But soon after she becomes a member of the FBI's elite Behavioral Analysis Unit, authorities in Missouri contact them about bodies found on freight trains--all killed in the same way.

Alex never expected to be forced to confront her past in this new job, but she immediately recognizes the graffiti messages the killer is leaving on the train cars. When the BAU sends her to gather information about the messages from her aunt in Wichita, Kansas, Alex is haunted by the struggles she thought she'd left behind forever.

In a race against time to solve the case and recover a deadly virus sample the killer intends to spread, Alex must face how far she'll go--and what she's willing to risk--to put a stop to the Train Man.

I have to say this book sucked you in, right from the very beginning.  As with all books you get an introduction/taste of the characters in the first chapters, and the way Nancy described them all, you knew this was going to be an interesting book.  There were so many ups and downs, that you just wanted to turn the page to see what happened next.

What was interesting, was this book is the first I have read that mentions the Covid-19 virus.  So it's a very up to date book.  I really would have loved to hear how Nancy came up with the idea for this book, as the story in itself was so different.

Stars out of 5 : 5 A solid 5 stars for me.  A portion of the mystery I never figured out until it was revealed in the book.  Another part I guessed but wasn't positive it was correct, again until it was revealed in the book.  I am looking forward to the next book in the series, as I bet it will be well worth reading.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"A Tapestry of Light," by Kimberley Duffy

 "A Tapestry of Light," by Kimberley Duffy

In 1886 Calcutta, Ottilie Russell is adrift between two cultures, British and Indian, belonging to both and neither. In order to support her little brother, Thaddeus, and her grandmother, she relies upon the skills in beetle-wing embroidery that have been passed down to her through generations of Indian women.

When a stranger named Everett Scott appears with the news that Thaddeus is now Baron Sunderson and must travel to England to take his place as a nobleman, Ottilie is shattered by the secrets that come to light. Despite her growing friendship with Everett, friend to Ottilie's English grandmother and aunt, she refuses to give up her brother. Then tragedy strikes, and she is forced to make a decision that will take Thaddeus far from death and herself far from home.

But betrayal and loss lurk in England too, and soon Ottilie must fight to ensure Thaddeus doesn't forget who he is, as well as find a way to stitch a place for herself in a cold, foreign land.

This book was so interesting.  It had so many layers to it; however what stood out to me about this book, was how descriptive it was.  You could visualize the sounds, the sights and smells of India in the way it was written.  I learned so many things about India that I knew nothing about.  As a sewer I was fascinated with the Beetle Wing Embroidery that Ottilie did, you can read more about that here.

The strength if character that Ottilie had, stood out the most in this book and despite all her challenges in life, she relied on God to help her over come them.   When the book took us to England; although a different country, the descriptions that the author wrote about made it easier for you to visualize everything.  You could almost feel how cold Ottilie felt with all the damp weather in England!  Then going from food which includes some making flavours and spices, to the bland British food it made you feel so sorry for Ottilie and her brother.😀

Stars out of 5 : 4.5 The book only lost half a star as some passages in the book went on for much too long, to my liking.  I loved the historical aspect of the book and I learned a lot.  This book is well worth reading in my opinion.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"My Dear Miss Dupre," by Grace Hitchcock

 "My Dear Miss Dupre," by Grace Hitchcock

Willow Dupré never thought she would have to marry, but with her father's unexpected retirement from running the prosperous Dupré sugar refinery, she is forced into a different future. The shareholders are unwilling to allow a female to take over the company without a man at her side, so her parents devise a plan--find Willow a spokesman king in order for her to become queen of the business empire.

Willow is presented with thirty potential suitors from the families of New York society's elite group called the Four Hundred. She has six months to court the group and is told to to eliminate men each month to narrow her beaus until she chooses one to marry, ending the competition with a wedding. Willow reluctantly agrees, knowing she must do what is best for the business. She doesn't expect to find anything other than a proxy . . . until she meets a gentleman who captures her attention, and she must discover for herself if his motives are pure.

This was a good book, with a neat storyline.  I think if you watch the tv series "The Batchelorette" and enjoy that you will love this book, as it's a similar theme.  Girl has to chose out of a group of men her husband to be.  The little things in this book made it more enjoyable; for example Fritz and his flowers.

There were plenty of twists and turns in this book, that kept you glued to the book and wanting to know what happened next.  You can't help but fall in love with Willow and her "Batchelor's."  I know I had a favourite who I cheered on from the beginning.  It won't be a shocker how it ends, but a great book overall.

Stars out of 5 : 5 This is the first book in the "American Royalty," series by this author.  I am looking forward to the next one.  Great book.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"A Dance in Donegal," by Jennifer Deibel

"A Dance in Donegal," by Jennifer Deibel

All her life, Boston-born Moira Doherty has relished her mother's descriptions of the Emerald Isle. When her mother dies unexpectedly in the summer of 1920, Moira is compelled to fulfill her dying wish--that she become the teacher in Ballymann, the beloved village in Donegal, Ireland, she's heard so much about.

After an arduous voyage, Moira begins a challenging new job in an unfamiliar and ancient country. Though a few locals offer a warm welcome, others are distanced by superstition and suspicion. Rumors about Moira's mother are unspoken in her presence but threaten to derail everything she's journeyed to Ballymann to do. Moira must rely on the kindness of a handful of friends--and the strength of Sean, an unsettlingly handsome thatcher who keeps popping up unannounced--as she seeks to navigate a life she'd never dreamed of . . . but perhaps was meant to live.

This book took me a while to get immersed into.  Once I did though I loved how descriptive the book was about living in Ireland in the 1920's. You could almost smell the peat burning in all the fireplace's.  How the author mixed Gaelic language into the book made it very authentic.

There were enough twists and turns in the book to keep it interesting.  Just when you thought you figured it out, something else happened.  One of the main themes running through this book was forgiveness.  Also how living in a small town, things take on a life of their own in a blink of an eye.  Which I could relate too, coming from a small town in Britain.

Stars out of 5 : 3.5  Not the best book I have ever read, but once I got into it, I really enjoyed it.  Just took a bit longer than normal for me.  If you love anything Irish, you'll love this book.

  "Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell , a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"All That We Carried," by Erin Bartels

 "All That We Carried," by Erin Bartels

Ten years ago, sisters Olivia and Melanie Greene were on a hiking trip when their parents were in a fatal car accident. They haven't seen each other since the funeral. Olivia coped with the loss by plunging herself into law school, work, and a materialist view of the world--what you see is what you get, and that's all you get. Melanie dropped out of college and developed an online life coaching business around her DIY spirituality--a little of this, a little of that, whatever makes you happy.

Now, at Melanie's insistence (and against Olivia's better judgment), they are embarking on a hike in the Porcupine Mountains of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. In this remote wilderness they'll face their deepest fears, question their most dearly held beliefs, and begin to see that perhaps the best way to move forward is the one way they had never considered.

This book makes you think.  Right from the very beginning you know you're in for a roller coaster of a ride with this book.  Not only through all the trials and tribulations they encounter while hiking, but also the emotional ups and downs of each of the girls.  Both these things brings out the best and the worst in each of these sisters and you are brought along for the ride.

if you have siblings, this book will make you think about your relationship with your own siblings.  I, like Melanie am a believer that things happen for a reason, so enjoyed that about her.  

Stars out of 5 : 4 I loved all the descriptions about the hike.  Starting out at the beginning of the book, it even got me dreaming about going hiking.  The more I got into the book, the more I realized how naive I was about hiking in the woods.  

The ending of the book was confusing for me and I ended up having more questions than answers.  So much so, I messaged the author for clarification on a couple of things.  She was very generous in messaging me back and cleared up the things I had questions about.  I cannot reveal what confused me, but if you read the book, I would be more than willing to discuss it with you.

 "Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell , a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"A Cowboy for Keeps," by Jody Hedlund

 "A Cowboy for Keeps," by Jody Hedlund

Greta Nilsson's trip west to save her ailing little sister, Astrid, could not have gone more wrong. First, bandits hold up her stagecoach, stealing all her money. Then, upon arriving in Fairplay, Colorado, she learns the man she was betrothed to as a mail-order bride has died. Homeless, penniless, and jobless, Greta and her sister are worse off than when they started.

Wyatt McQuaid is struggling to get his new ranch up and running and is in town to purchase cattle when the mayor proposes the most unlikely of bargains. He'll invest in a herd of cattle for Wyatt's ranch if Wyatt agrees to help the town become more respectable by marrying and starting a family with Greta. But when old insecurities and surprising revelations arise, can a union born out of desperation survive?

Really enjoyed this book.  There was plenty of action right from the start.  Although Greta and Wyatt were the lead character's, I think my favourite had to be Greta's sister Astrid.  What a firecracker she was.  I think she stole the show.  When you think of a cowboy, the rugged, quiet, handsome type comes to mind, and Wyatt fit the bill perfectly.

Greta had a heart of gold and such a tough spirit, she was willing to sacrifice everything for her sister.  You know what's going to happen with Greta and Wyatt, but what happens in between is what makes the story. 

This is the first book in the "Colorado Cowboy's," series, the next one being released in October of this year.  Looking forward to reading about Wyatt's brother Flynn.

Stars out of 5 : 5 Loved the book, read it in a full day.  Plenty of things in this book to keep you interested.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"When Twilight Break's, by Sarah Sundin"

"When Twilight Break's, by Sarah Sundin"

Munich, 1938

Evelyn Brand is an American foreign correspondent determined to prove her worth in a male-dominated profession and to expose the growing tyranny in Nazi Germany. To do so, she must walk a thin line. If she offends the government, she could be expelled from the country--or worse. If she does not report truthfully, she'll betray the oppressed and fail to wake up the folks back home.

Peter Lang is an American graduate student working on his PhD in German. Disillusioned with the chaos in the world due to the Great Depression, he is impressed with the prosperity and order of German society. But when the brutality of the regime hits close, he discovers a far better way to use his contacts within the Nazi party--to feed information to the shrewd reporter he can't get off his mind.

As the world marches relentlessly toward war, Evelyn and Peter are on a collision course with destiny.

I don't normally read books about World War II and Nazi Germany, but I am glad I got to read this.  This book was based on American's working in Germany at the time.  It showed you how people were deceived into thinking how the Nazi regime was a good stabling effect on Germany at first, then their true colours showed through.

This book brought up how it was one rule for women and another rule for men, and how hard women had to fight for their places in the workforce and to be recognized for their achievements.

The book moved at a fast pace with many twists and turns.  It was a page turner as you had to know what was going to happen next.  The love story between Evelyn and Peter was good, as it didn't happen overnight.  The book allowed both character's to develop feelings for one another, without jumping in head first.

Stars out of 5 : 4.5  I thought the ending a bit weak.  Everything seems to fall in place and "they lived happily ever after."  If you are a fan of books set in this time period, this is a book for you.

 "Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell , a division of Baker Publishing Group".

"The Moonlight School," by Suzanne Woods Fisher

 "The Moonlight School," by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Haunted by personal tragedy, Lucy Wilson arrives in Rowan County, Kentucky, in the spring of 1911 to assist her cousin, Cora Wilson Stewart, superintendent of schools. A fish out of water, Lucy is appalled by the primitive conditions and intellectual poverty she encounters.

Born in those very hills, Cora knows the twin plagues of illiteracy and poverty. So does Brother Wyatt, a singing school master who travels through the hills. Involving Lucy and Wyatt, Cora hatches a plan to open the schoolhouses to adults on moonlit nights. The best way to combat poverty, she believes, is to eliminate illiteracy. But will the people come?

As Lucy emerges from a life in the shadows, she finds purpose, along with something else she hadn't expected: love.

Inspired by true events, this novel from bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher brings to life the story that shocked the nation into taking adult literacy seriously.

I LOVED this book, this had everything I enjoy in a book.  Great storyline, super characters, and set in a part of the world I love to read about.  It was also based around a true part of history, "The Moonlight School's of Kentucky."  I had never heard of them until I read this book.

This book also showed you how despite having very little in life these folk were very rich in other ways.  It also show's how first impressions never tell the full story.  I loved the twist in this story also, and the important decision Lucy had to make regarding this.  I can't say what as it would spoil it for you, if you decide to read the book.

If I had to find fault with the book, I thought it would have been more about the Moonlight Schools.  It was more a love story of Lucy and Wyatt.  However the details of life in Kentucky at that time was woven seamlessly into the story.

Stars out of 5 : 5 So well worth the read.  If you had never heard of the Moonlight Schools, here is an interesting link about them. 

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell , a division of Baker Publishing Group".