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Monthly Archives: April 2015

Book Review: A Stranger’s Secret

29 Wednesday Apr 2015

Posted by Jennifer in Books I LOVE, Reviewed Books

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A Stranger's Secret, Book Review, Christian Historical Fiction, Laurie Alice Eakes

A Stranger's Secret

ABOUT THE BOOK 

As a grieving widow, Morwenna only wants to make a life for herself and her young son at her murdered husband’s estate. Until an unconscious man washes up on her shore, entangling her in a web of mysteries that threatens everything she holds dear.

Still grieving the loss of her husband, Morwenna Penvenan fills her days preserving her son’s heritage: the dilapidated estate his father left them. But all attempts at restoration are thwarted when she is accused of deliberately causing ships to crash on her shore in order to steal their cargo. While seeking clues to the true culprits, she finds an unconscious man wearing a medallion with the Penvenan crest enameled upon it.

Upon learning of his father’s death, David pursues answers to the many questions left in his father’s wake: Why was his father in Cornwall when he said he would be in Scotland? Why did he die in possession of a medallion belonging to a prominent Cornwall family? Why did his father take money from the family’s ship-building business? And why did someone kill him? Only after waking up at the Penvenan estate under Morwenna’s care do the pieces start falling together.

As David recovers in Morwenna’s house, they grow to care about one another, while knowing each have reasons to distrust the other. The closer they work together, the more they learn how their lives—and mysteries—are entwined. As the past continues to intrude on their lives, they must learn to ask the Lord and others for help or risk losing each other and maybe even losing their lives.

MY REVIEW 

Laurie Alice Eakes has written herself into my favorite historical fiction reads of 2015 with this love story and mystery by the sea. A Stranger’s Secret is riveting and full of suspense. I stayed up late last night to finish it because I could not put it down. For me, that is a mark of a great read. If a book is easily put down, than it is easily forgotten. I found A Stranger’s Secret to be unforgettable.

This title is second in Eakes’ Cliffs of Cornwall series. I did not read the first book and was able to pick up right where the book began without feeling like I was missing pieces. However, now that I am loving Eakes writing style and gift of dialogue, I am anxious to read her other books. Historical fiction has long been my favorite genre to read, but the addition of mystery really kicks it up a notch.

I love this book for many reasons, but mostly for the love story between Lady Morwenna and David Chastain. I revealed in the idea that Morwenna saw strength in David even when he was weak. I found the chemistry between them subtle at first, but then it grew naturally as I turned the pages. The tug of war of trust between them is well-played and kept me guessing even in the final chapters.

I so enjoyed reading A Stranger’s Secret. Books like this one are why I read. I was given a complimentary copy of this book by its publisher and BookLookBloggers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I have not been compensated.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Recipient of the National Readers Choice Award, Laurie Alice Eakes is the author of nine books and a novella, with four more books and two novellas scheduled for release. She is a writing teacher and speaker and has her master’s degree in creative writing. She also writes articles on writing, including “Writing from the Heart While Writing for the Market” for The ACFW Journal. Visit her website at Facebook: authorlauriealiceeakes Twitter: @LaurieAEakes

Fun and Flirty Texas Love Story

25 Saturday Apr 2015

Posted by Jennifer in Reviewed Books

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Book Review, Bridal Fiction, Christian Fiction, Every Bride Needs a Groom, Janice Thompson, Texas

Every Bride needs a Groom

This new book by Janice Thompson is pure fun and perfect for hopeless romantics who watch or read their favorite love stories over and over again. Every Bride Needs a Groom is less than subtle with its Texas overtones and Steel Magnolia type personalities. All of the characters are thick with accents and geographic stereotypes. But these are the reasons it is so charming and enjoyable to read. Because I have lived in Texas, shopped at Brookshire Brothers, and eaten at Sam’s, I know that Janice Thompson hit the mark with her characters. For and added bonus, all of the chapter titles are song titles of the one and only Loretta Lynn.

In Every Bride Needs a Groom, Thompson introduces Katie Fisher who is in love with weddings and gowns and all things bridal. Sadly, her hopes are dashed when her long time boyfriend Casey reveals he has no plans of marriage, but of a new adventure…in another state. Having jumped the gun, Katie entered a contest and won a wedding dress from a top designer and now must claim her prize without a groom or a wedding date.

Her new love interest is an injured professional basketball player whose mama just happens to be the dress designer. I loved this story for the way Thompson follows Katie and Brady (the basketball player). Nothing is rushed or unbelievable in their story. Well…minus the part about a basketball player running a bridal shop. But, this is fiction, and the magic is in the unfathomable happening. I am most excited about being able to continue reading Katie and Brady’s story in Book 2, Every Girl Gets Confused.  

Four and a half stars from this Texas loving reader! I was given a complimentary copy of this book by its publisher in exchange for an honest review. I have not been compensated and all opinions are my own.

JANICE THOMPSON is a seasoned romance author and screenwriter. An expert at pulling the humor from situations we get ourselves into, Thompson offers an inside look at the wedding business, drawing on her own experiences as a wedding planner. She is the author of the hugely popular Weddings by Bella series, the Backstage Pass series, and the Weddings by Design series. She lives in Texas. Learn more at www.janicethomposn.com.

Salsa Fresca with Queso and Pintos

21 Tuesday Apr 2015

Posted by Jennifer in Books I LOVE, Favorites, Food, Reviewed Books

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Book Review, de Gallo, Deborah Schneider, Pico, Salsa Fresco, Salsa Fresco with Queso and Pintos, Salsas and Moles, Wegmans

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I love this resource for Salsas and Moles by Deborah Schneider. In my house, we eat Mexican food and we eat it often. This cook book is full of delightful flavors and fresh from the farm stand recipes. The cover alone makes me hungry with its colorful display of salsas. Deborah Schneider gives anyone, from a beginner to a novice, easy and tasteful ideas to add to their Mexican repertoire. She has broken this title into five sections:Classic Table Salsas, Hot Salsas, Mole and Enchilada Sauces, Salsas for Tacos, and Chunky Salsas and Botanas.

It is from Chunky Salsas and Botanas that I made dinner last night. Schneider offers a recipe for Salsa Frescsa with Queso and Pintos.  As she states, it sounds a bit odd, but it was really good.

For Salsa Fresca with Queso and Pintos you will need:

4 ounces Panela Cheese, cut into 1/4 inch cubes (I found this easy to obtain in our Wegmans – the best grocery store ever!!! You may have to look at your local international food store.)

1/4 cup cooked pinto beans, well-drained (I was in a hurry and used canned, rinsed. It came out great)

1 tablespoon chopped cilantro

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon fresh squeezed lime juice

1 1/4 cups Pico De Gallo or Salsa Quemada (I used Schneider’s recipe for Pico, she gives recipes for both in the book) For pico – 3 Romas seeded, diced, 1/4 white or red onion diced, 3/4 tsp salt, 1tbs lime juice, 1 small jalapeño minced, 1 tbs minced cilantro.

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I put everything in one bowl instead of making them separately. The Panela cheese is salty, so add salt with care. I then tossed everything together until well mixed. We ate this fabulous meal on warmed corn tortillas and I added avocado on top just for an extra bit of amazing.

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This could easily be made ahead of time. I whipped it up in just 15 minutes which made dinner last night so easy and so fresh. I would have never thought this up on my own. While I frequently make pico de gallo, the addition of pintos and panela made this a fantastic treat for the taste buds. It also made a complete meal. Bravo!

I love all the ideas Deborah Schneider offers in Salsas and Moles. I am excited to try a Mole, because in all my Mexican food cooking, I have never attempted one!! I was fortunate enough to receive a review copy of this title from BloggingforBooks.  I have not been compensated for my review and all opinions are my own.

My Favorite Fiction Read for 2015!

19 Sunday Apr 2015

Posted by Jennifer in Books I LOVE, Reviewed Books

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Best Fiction of 2015, Book Review, Christian Historical Fiction, NetGalley, Tamera Alexander, To Win Her Favor

To Win Her Favor

This sigh worthy book has been my favorite read so far in the genre of historical fiction for this year. I could not put it down and I became obsessed with reading it!! I read as I dried my hair in the mornings, in the pick up line at school, and by lamp at night long after my family had turned in for the evening. I have read all of Tamera Alexander’s books and this one might just be my new favorite.

To Win Her Favor is 5 stars for its beautiful telling of a marriage of convenience. Chemistry between characters Maggie and Cullen is tangible! It is Far and Away (with Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman) meets Gone With the Wind, except Cullen (the hero) is a more mature and much taller man.  Tamera Alexander gives plenty of page time to Margaret and Cullen which leads to a believable and wonderful ending.

I will read To Win Her Favor again as it has won a place on my shelf of cherished books. Like a new favorite movie, it will be enjoyed by me over and over. Really, I could go on and on. I loved it!

I sought out my copy of To Win Her Favor on NetGalley. (Because I read everything Tamera Alexander writes!) I have not been compensated for my review and all opinions are my own.

My Other Favorites by Tamera Alexander

To Whisper Her Name

A Lasting Impression

Book Review: The Creole Princess

19 Sunday Apr 2015

Posted by Jennifer in Reviewed Books

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Beth White, Book Review, The Creole Princess

The creole Princess

From the Back Cover

It is 1776, and all along the eastern seaboard the American struggle for independence rages. But in the British-held southern port of Mobile, Alabama, the conflict brewing is much quieter-though no less deadly.

Lyse Lanier may be largely French in heritage, but she spends most of her time in the company of the ebullient daughter of the British commander of Mobile. When a charming young Spanish merchant docks in town, Lyse is immediately struck by his easy wit and flair for the dramatic. But is he truly who he makes himself out to be? Spies abound, and Spain has yet to choose a side in the American conflict. Is Lyse simply an easy mark for Rafael Gonzalez to exploit? Or are his overtures of love as genuine as Spanish gold?

My Review

The Creole Princess by Beth White was an interesting read for me for many reasons. White writes about a different kind of character, with a much different type of heritage and family than most books that fall into this genre. The very fact that the main character was Creole intrigued me. Further, I enjoyed the history lesson White teaches as she writes this title. As much history as I have read and studied, I really feel like I missed out on knowing the role Spain played in the American Revolution.

Where I began to struggle with this book was the long list of characters and the wide span of time the pages cover. I sometimes found myself flipping back just to be sure I wasn’t confused about certain characters and the role they were playing in the story. The first chapter is set in August 1776 and concludes in March of 1780. As I turned from one page to the next, time was passing in chunks and I am not sure I kept pace very well. I do think the novel ended nicely and that White tied up all of the loose ends.

The Creole Princess stands alone, but I can’t help but wonder if I would have felt differently had I read the first book in the series. Overall, I feel this title is 3.5 stars. It has not been my favorite read this year, but I appreciate it for its uniqueness and depth of history. I was given a complimentary copy of this book by its publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I have not been compensated.

Book Review: From Good to Grace

14 Tuesday Apr 2015

Posted by Jennifer in Reviewed Books

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Book Review, Christine Hoover, From Good to Grace

From Good to Grace cover

 

I have read so many books written to women, for women, and about women. Sometimes, I become a little tired of their message because usually…its the same. The cover might be different, and it might be well written and refreshing…but in the end it is the same book. Maybe it’s because as women we want answers for how we are feeling and we search for them in books with pretty covers and a hopeful tagline. I feel like I have finally found a different message and a challenging premise in From Good to Grace by Christine Hoover. Christine is challenging you and I to let go of the “Goodness Gospel.”

From the Back Cover

So many of us feel as if we do not do enough and, in fact, are not enough. We try hard to be good- a good friend, mom, wife, Christian, employee, or ministry leader- hoping for that “atta-girl” from God, some heavenly assertion that we matter. It’s a gospel without grace, and in the end, it’s good for nothing.

I cannot count the times I have done something “for God” with a heart of obligation and without joy. This is not the way a life following Christ should be. Christine Hoover does a wonderful job of fleshing out the idea the we were never called to be “Good,” checking off a litany of boxes to get a gold star on some heavenly chart. Being a Christ-follower is about what God wants for us, not from us.

From Good to Grace, is written in three parts: Saying goodbye to being good, Receiving His Love, Help, and Freedom, and How to Respond to a Gospel of Grace with  Love, Grace, and Hope. I truly enjoyed the first part of the book for the way Christine unearthed some things I was completely unaware of in myself. The conclusion of the book is a great guideline for redirection and a new start.

I think this would be an excellent read for any women’s group, Bible study, or just on your own. You will want to highlight and dog ear your book, and share it with a friend. I was given a complimentary copy of this book by its publisher in exchange for an honest review. I have not been compensated and all opinions are my own.

About the Author

Christine Hoover is a a pastor’s wife, mom, speaker, and the author of The Church Planting Wife. She has written for The Gospel Coalition, Desiring God, and Christianity Today. Blogging at www.GraceCoversMe.com, she enjoys helping women apply the gift of God’s Grace to their daily lives. She lives in Virginia.

 

 

 

 

 

Glamping 101

13 Monday Apr 2015

Posted by Jennifer in Family, Out West Trip, Travel, Virginia

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Bay's Mountain, Benefits of GoodSam, Camping, Chevy 2500, fifth wheel, glamping, GoodSam, Locking yourself out of your camper, new camper, Sandpiper, Should I get GoodSam?, Tennessee

In one month and twenty-four days my family and I are heading out in a fifth wheel for six weeks to see 10 national parks. In the past we have always been tent people. Tent camping is cheap, and can be so much fun. Knowing we would be on the road for 42 days, we decided to upgrade our accommodations.

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We are pretty much newbies at the fifth wheel life and I can tell you from our limited experience…its a little complicated. There is more to buy than just the camper. You also need a fifth wheel hitch, a brake controller, and according to my husband…a second air conditioner and Ride Rite air bags. Also, if you live in Virginia, you have a wheel tax of sorts for your camper. Glamping is not cheap.

We made our practice run on our spring break, traveling 340 miles or so to Bay’s Mountain located in Kingsport, Tennessee. So much was learned on this first trip. In case you are new at this too…or just need a good laugh…here are just a few things we learned.

1. Even if you are too tired to find the hand towels and put out the toilet paper when you arrive, do it anyway. Your son might be first up in the morning and decide to use paper towels for his bathroom needs. Did I mention he flushed them?? In a camper potty??

2. Just because the gauge on your galley tank says its only 2/3 full, don’t bet on it. Water might back up and flow back out. Yes, that happened.

3. Hide a key that is accessible outside of your camper. And not in your car…it might be locked. After unlocking your camper, your son might turn the key back into the lock position without you knowing it. Yes, you can lock yourself out of your camper.

4. Subscribe to GoodSam. They take care of the locking yourself out of the camper ordeal..and quickly I might add. Even in far away places…like Bay’s Mountain. (I promise they did not pay me to say that…I am just really grateful!)

5. Lastly, if you add Mayo to your guacamole (I know it sounds weird…but it is so good) you will get food poisoning if you leave it out too long. And you will be glad you are in a camper and not in a tent. Food poisoning is not fun. Food poisoning without a toilet nearby is less fun.

Despite all of the “learning experiences,” we had so much fun!! The kids thought it was so cool to fuel up next to the big guys.

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And spring was happening before our eyes.

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We made time for exploring.

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And taking in the view.

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I would love to hear about any of your RV “learning experiences!”  Please feel free to share in the comments. Happy camping!

 

Book Review: From The Start

10 Friday Apr 2015

Posted by Jennifer in Reviewed Books

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Book Review, From the Start, Melissa Tagg

From the start

 

If you love Hallmark movies, you will definitely enjoy From The Start by Melissa Tagg. It is a story about loss, love, family, and community. Ironically, the leading lady in From The Start writes screenplays for Hallmark type movies.  And just like a good love story, she (Kate Walker) meets and falls in love with a hunky former NFL quarterback, Colton Greene.  Clearly this is not a realistic situation for most women…but this is why its called fiction. This is the type of story I love to read because it is full of hope and likable people who you root for and, in the end, feel like you know.

This is the second book by Melissa Tagg I have read in the last few years. I find that I really enjoy her style and the rhythm in which she writes. Her dialogue always works and she never crowds the pages with too many characters and side stories. Further, Tagg always gives the would be love birds plenty of page time to fall in love. From the Start is a departure from my usually fare, but I really like Melissa Tagg’s books and will continue to read her titles. In fact, I am excited to follow the Walker family in further books.

I would like to think that one day I will be flipping through the channels and find one of Tagg’s books has in fact made it to the Hallmark Channel. This particular title would be a perfect fit.

Find out more about Melissa Tagg and her other titles at www.melissatagg.com.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book by its publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I have not been compensated.

Book Review: Nobody’s Cuter Than You

07 Tuesday Apr 2015

Posted by Jennifer in Reviewed Books

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Book Review, Melanie Shankle, Nobody's Cuter Than You

Nobody

 

Sometimes best friends are just for a season, and occasionally they are forever. I have had so many dear friends at one point or another I would have called my best friend. (This would be the reason I had SEVEN bridesmaids and TWO maids of honor stand with me on my wedding day.) Author Melanie Shankle’s new book Nobody’s Cuter Than You reminded me of all of the precious women in my life both past and present for whom I am forever grateful.

Oddly enough, Nobody’s Cuter Than You is the second memoir I have read in the last few months. I read Sophie Hudson’s memoir Home Is Where My People Are earlier this year. Would you believe both Melanie Shankle (BigMama) and Sophie Hudson (BooMama) are blog contributors to The Pioneer Woman blog? Small world eh?  And you know what? I loved both books.  I think Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman) has fantastic taste in bloggers!

I read Nobody’s Cuter Than You in just a few short hours. My family and I were on a road trip and I found myself constantly reading my husband paragraphs I found hilarious. So basically, he read the book along with me. Even though this book is about the friendships Melanie experienced in her life, I saw my own life in her words. I think that is why this memoir is so wonderful. As I turned the pages, I remembered friends I haven’t thought about much in the last few years. At one point or another I would have counted each one as my dearest friend. I finished the book with heart of gratitude for the many women who have become more than friends.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book by its publisher in exchange for an honest review. I have not been compensated and all opinions are my own.

About the Author

Melanie Shankle lives in San Antonio, Texas, with her husband, Perry, and daughter, Caroline. She graduated from Texas A&M in 1994 while possibly on scholastic probation. Melanie began writing her blog, Big Mama, in July 2006. She is the author of the New York Times best sellers Sparkly Green Earrings and The Antelope in the Living Room. 

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