Cover L♡ver Book Review

Mother's Day is fast approaching, and we're joining up with JustRead Publicity Tours to tell you about a great gift for Mom this year! Keep reading for more info on a special ebook price to make your gift giving even easier AND a book club kit giveaway! ABOUT THE BOOK Title: The Brave Art of Motherhood: Fight Fear, Gain Confidence, & Find Yourself Again Author: Rachel Marie Martin   Publisher: WaterBrook   Release Date: October 9, 2018 Genre: Christian Living/Women's Interest   Full-time FindingJoy.net blogger, speaker, marketer, podcaster, and single mom of seven, Rachel Marie Martin presents a wake-up call to those of us who have found ourselves stuck in the 'I'm just a mom' phase of life. Yes, this book is about motherhood . . . but really, this book is about finding yourself again and following your passion WHILE being a mom. Inspired by her incredible story, Rachel's words always come straight from the gut; they are visceral, re

  My Review:  Love by the Letter  is a squeaky-clean historical western novella. This story has a strong innocent vibe, with characters who exhibit youthful thoughts and behaviors, giving off the same feel as an episode of Little House on the Prairie. Initially, it was difficult for me to connect with Dex. I like a humble man, but Dex was so self-critical. As the story progressed, he grew, and became much more relatable. Rachel, though she, like Dex, lacks communication skills, is a more developed character. It was easy to connect with her. I love her altruistic heart, and how she doesn’t look down on those who may not share her intellect. After a rather sluggish beginning, the story gained momentum and kept my attention. Audio Narration:  Suzie Althens   is a soft-spoken audiobook narrator who speaks clearly, and is easy to follow and understand. Her inflection is clean, and she shifts between character voices effortlessly and convincingly, without disrupting the flow.  A

My! Oh. My!  Whose Waves These Are  has moved me. Profoundly. I can’t begin to count how many times it made me cry—from sadness, joy, beauty. I adore time-slip novels. Especially when both time periods pull me in equally. As I began reading, I sank into Robert’s story during WWII and its aftermath. I didn’t want to leave this side of the story. I was certain the contemporary layers couldn’t possibly be as intriguing. I was wrong. Annie’s story equally drew me in. Every single character adds to the fullness of this story. Each one grabbed firmly to my heart and became unforgettable. I truly can’t pick a favorite. I love every last one. This is the first book I’ve read by Amanda Dykes, and she just became my must-read author. I am so drawn in by her writer’s voice. She effortlessly submerged me into the past and made me feel part of this wonderful Ansel-By-The-Sea  community.  Ayuh!  I wonder if I’ve ever read a novel that spoke to my soul so deeply. This story display

  The Inn at Hidden Run  is a dual time period story. I definitely connect stronger to the historical side of the story. It is rich with texture, emotion, and well-rounded characters. Eliza is a unique, interesting, and has a good heart. The contemporary side is more difficult for me to get into. The story doesn’t feel as authentic and doesn’t have the same pacing or flow. Jillian falls a little flat for me and doesn’t intrigue me like Eliza does. This book has an eye-catching cover, interesting title, and nice blend of mystery and emotion. To give this an overall rating is difficult, due to mainly connecting to only one side of the story, so I’m settling in the middle. ⭐⭐⭐ Author: Olivia Newport Publisher: Shiloh Run Press Series: Tree of Life Book 1 Pages: 256 First Line:  Sad, but true. Source: I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a review.

Book Description: King Solomon was wealthy and wise beyond measure. He could—and did—have anything he wanted, including many women from many lands. But for all his wisdom, did he or the women in his life ever find what they searched for all their lives? In this engrossing novel, you’ll find yourself whisked away to ancient Israel, where you’ll meet Solomon and four of the women he loved: Naamah the desert princess, Abishag the shepherdess, Siti the daughter of a pharouh, and Nicaula the queen of Sheba. As you experience the world of Solomon through his eyes and the eyes of these women, you’ll ask yourself the ultimate question: Did Solomon’s wisdom ultimately benefit him and those he loved…or did it betray them? My Review: I love it when an author who has the heart and does the research it takes to make a story come to life—especially biblical fiction. Even though some of the story is fictionalized, it still gives me a strong feel for the culture and practices of the tim

Put on Your PJs, Piggies!  is an adorable bedtime storybook for preschoolers. The uniquely shaped board book is sturdy, and the glittery accents on the cover are eye-catching. In a smooth rhyming cadence, three piggies try their best stalling tactics after being told it’s time to put on their PJs and get ready for bed. Eventually, they snuggle up together, say their prayers, and sleep in their PJs. The lilting rhymes are entertaining, and the colorful illustrations of Sunshine Farm and its various barnyard animals are so much fun. The story encourages little ones to prepare for bed and get the rest they need to enjoy a brand-new day in the morning.  Playful, cute, and sweet. **Note: The page illustrations and quotes that are on Amazon and Barnes & Noble are NOT in the book. I’m not sure why. The cover art is the same, but what is shown online must be from a previous edition—even though it states it is from March 2019. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Illustrator: Sydney Hanson Pu

What a Great Word for Moms  is a fairly unique devotional focusing on various words from the Bible that motivate, uplift, and challenge us (moms.) Pros: I really enjoy devotionals. I like the numerous Scripture verses, prayers, and quotes that are used, and the conversational tone is engaging. A presentation page is included for gifting. Cons: I wish the book was a little more cohesive and structured. It feels a bit busy and disjointed. The font is rather small. Overall, I like the concept of this hardback devotional, but I’m not fully drawn in by it, and wish each devotion had designated lines or spaces for personal thoughts or note taking.  ⭐⭐⭐ Author: Karen Moore Publisher: FaithWords Pages: 144 Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and was not obligated to write a favorable review.

I love the brain science included in this compact book. I’m fascinated with what makes people tick and why. The 4 Habits of Joy-Filled Marriages  is filled with wonderful examples, plans, and exercises that help us reach our relationship potential. This book (easily read in an hour or two) presents straight-forward, easy to follow practices that reveal “why” and “how” we act and react the way we do.  Not only have I learned more about my spouse, and our life together, but I’ve learned so much about myself. These practical habits and exercises not only have the potential to strengthen the joy in our romantic relationships, but in our relationships with family and friends, as well. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Author: Marcus Warner & Chris M. Coursey Publisher: Northfield Publishing Pages: 160 First Line (Introduction):  One of the most startling revelations to come out of the latest breakthroughs in brain science is the discovery that there is no more powerful motivator in life t

I love how this little book showcases how big our God is! He is revealed in the tiniest details! God is in the Small Stuff  is an inspirational book, similar to a devotional. It inspires me to seek God in the ordinary—the small stuff—and to depend on Him to take care of all the small and big things in my day to day life.  Each chapter only takes minutes to read, yet what I read encourages me throughout the entire day. The 20 th Anniversary Edition hardback comes with a ribbon bookmark. #GodIsInTheSmallStuff ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Author: Bruce & Stan  Publisher: Shiloh Run Press Pages: 256 Source: I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Kids Say the Wisest Things  is a compendium of short stories observing the simplicity and humility of kids’ views of the world, and how they reveal so much about our God, our faith, and ourselves.  I love the simplicity of these 26 “lessons” our children teach us, sharing down-to-earth thoughts from young minds that make us see things in a whole new (spiritual) light. The inspirational true stories are easy to read in short snippets, when a bit of encouragement or vision is needed, making it a nice coffee table book or conversation starter.  #KidsSayTheWisestThings ⭐⭐⭐ Author: Jon Gauger Publisher: Moody Publishers Pages: 192 Source: I received a complimentary copy from the MPNews blogger program and under no obligation to post a positive review. 

The Noble Guardian  serves well as a standalone, it isn’t lacking, whether you’ve read the previous books in the trilogy or not. First, I have to mention this stunning cover art. I’m not usually attracted to books with male leads on the cover (sorry, not sorry) but this particular one, along with the intriguing title, is definitely attention-grabbing. Now, on to the hero. Oh. My. I adore Captain Samuel Thatcher. I love how the further I read the more I see behind his stony, brooding persona. The author takes her time to reveal his compassionate heart and soul, and I enjoy every moment of it. As of right now, he is my favorite male lead of 2019!  Abigail (Abby) Gilbert is more transparent and less complicated—yet it takes a little longer to connect to her. As she grows sturdier and more mature, my affections also grow. So much progression throughout the story. Her positive attitude and stubbornness are refreshing and entertaining.  As for the secondary characters, I’m

Ever since first watching  The Sound of Music  when I was young, I’ve loved stories that involve a Governess. I enjoy these themes of new beginnings and the importance of faith to get us through hard times.  In  The Governess of Penwythe Hall , Delia Greythorne is a captivating governess, and so easy to connect with. She goes through so much in this story and I sympathize with her having to deal with things coming at her from every angle. Each of the characters play an important role, and many captured my heart. Especially sweet Liam, one of the children. I went through a myriad of emotions reading this story. From sorrow, dismay, fear, and anger, to surprise, hope, and awe. And just the right amount of romance is included. (I’m pleased it didn’t happen too quickly.) I enjoyed the gorgeous cover, dynamic characters, intriguing plot, fabulous Regency setting, and strong writing. I also love that this is the first book in a new series! ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Author: Sarah E. Ladd P

The Songs That Brought Me Back  by Mylissa Demeyere Book Blurb: Have you ever made a mistake? One so monumental you lost everything? I did, and I hate myself for it! All I want to do is close my eyes, and let the darkness consume me. Make it all go away. The end. Ainsley is drowning in the depth of her despair. One wrong decision left her alone, with only regret as her constant companion. To escape it all, she makes another choice. One she hopes will end everything. Instead, she’s thrown into a whole new world filled with opportunities she doesn’t believe she deserves. Ethan gives the appearance of breezing through life. But underneath his bright facade, he’s scarred by loss. When fate leads him into Ainsley’s world at the exact moment she needs someone the most, he can’t ignore the chance to right the wrongs of his past. Ainsley and Ethan will struggle to help each other heal and start anew. They’ll learn that the secret to conquering their pain lies within their powe

The Songs of You and Me  by Mylissa Demeyere Book Blurb: A SECOND CHANCE AT FIRST LOVE Jane Hartford fell head over heels for Jackson at the tender age of fifteen. She spent most of high school pining for him, until she realized he wasn't going to see her as anything more than his baby sister's best friend. Now she finds herself single with a daughter, a broken heart, and songs that remind her of a long lost love. Jackson Wright is a man living with regret. His biggest one, never acting on his feelings for Jane. When he returns to Bellebrook, the town they grew up in, he literally runs into her and his world gets tossed upside down and sideways. This time, Jackson isn't willing to give up. With a meddling sister eager to push both of them together, he believes things might actually work out. That is, if they can overcome the heavy baggage they both carry. Follow Jackson and Jane as they revisit their past, figuring out what went wrong so long ago. Will they