Blog Archives - Have A Wonderful Day

The Christmas Blessing

9/29/2017

"The Christmas Blessing"
by Melody Carlson

When she receives the news in late 1944 that her baby's father was shot down in the South Pacific, Amelia Richards loses hope. Jobless and broke, she has nowhere to turn for help but her infant's paternal grandparents. The only problem is, they don't know that she--or their grandson--exists. When Amelia discovers that the family is wealthy and influential, dare she disclose the truth of her relationship with their son? Or could the celebration of the arrival of another unexpected baby nearly two thousand years ago be the answer to her dilemma?
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I always enjoy reading Melody Carlson's Christmas books, so I was super excited to have a chance to read this one. Set in the World War II era, the reader is pulled into a lovely story about love and forgiveness. I really enjoyed the characters in this book. They each added a very special element to the story. I wish that the spiritual aspect of the book was a little bit stronger. There a brief mentions of God, but not as many as there could of been. I would have liked to see how they dealt with the baby being born out of wedlock from a Biblical aspect and what the Bible says about this. Instead the only problem anybody had with a baby out of wedlock was what that would do to their social standing. The ending is a bit rushed, but I really enjoyed the way that it ended. If you are looking for a sweet story, then I would definitely recommend this book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Justice Buried

9/29/2017

"Justice Buried"
by Patricia Bradley

In an effort to get her security consulting business off the ground, Kelsey Allen has been spending a lot of time up in the air, rappelling down buildings and climbing through windows to show business owners their vulnerabilities to thieves. When she is hired to pose as a conservator at the Pink Palace Museum in order to test their security weaknesses after some artifacts go missing, she's ecstatic. But when her investigative focus turns from theft to murder, Kelsey knows she's out of her league--and possibly in the cross hairs. When blast-from-the-past Detective Brad Hollister is called in to investigate, Kelsey may find that he's the biggest security threat yet . . . to her heart.
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I have always loved a good mystery book, and this story did not disappoint. Filled with lots of action, the story will keep you on the edge of your seat. You will be kept guessing as to what will happen next. The author does an excellent job of painting the visual pictures that you will feel like you are right there in the middle of the action. With a touch of romance and loads of suspense, this is a must read story.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

The Pretender

9/29/2017

"The Pretender"
by Ta' Mara Hanscom

Set in South Dakota in 1975, where eighteen-year-olds could order 3.2 beer in a bar, and loaded guns were kept under the counter.

Frankie Valli sang "My Eyes Adored You," and American soldiers returning from Vietnam struggled with their new reality.

It's within this tumultuous season of American history that Tillie Caselli meets Noah Hansen, and they are never the same again. Their lives were mysteriously intertwined-and had been for many years-yet they had no idea.

From the moment they met, Tillie and Noah wanted to spend the rest of their lives together, but a deliberate omission will keep them apart---and that same omission will be responsible for the escape of a murderer, and a bride's deception.
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I do not like to give a bad review, and I always try to look for something good in the books that I review. Sadly, that is going to change with this review. I was intrigued by the summary of this book, and thought that this would be a book that I would enjoy. Unfortunately, I was wrong. This book is filled with so much sin that it was revolting and sickening. I could not even finish the book because I got so sick to my stomach at some of the things mentioned in this book. The fact that the characters in the book didn't have a problem with the immorality that was around them was very disappointing. I do not recommend this book.

Parental Guide: This book contains lots of drinking, guys trying to pick up girls at bars, keeping things from parents, lying to parents, homosexuality, etc.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Litfuse Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Gathering the Threads

9/29/2017

"Gathering the Threads"
by Cindy Woodsmall

Finally back in the Old Order Amish world she loves,
Will Ariana’s new perspectives draw her family closer together--
or completely rip them apart?

After months away in the Englisch world, Ariana Brenneman is overjoyed to be in the Old Order Amish home where she was raised. Yet her excitement is mixed with an unexpected apprehension as she reconciles all she’s learned from her biological parents with the uncompromising teachings of her Plain community. Although her childhood friend, ex-Amish Quill Schlabach, hopes to help her navigate her new role amongst her people, Ariana’s Daed doesn’t understand why his sweet daughter is suddenly questioning his authority. What will happen if she sows seeds of unrest and rebellion in the entire family?

Meanwhile, Skylar Nash has finally found her place among the large Brenneman family, but Ariana’s arrival threatens to unravel Skylar’s new identity—and her sobriety. Both Ariana and Skylar must discover the true cords that bind a family and community together and grasp tight the One who holds their authentic identities close to His heart.
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This book is number 3 in the series Amish of Summer Grove. Ariana is back home after being ripped from the Amish home of Isaac and Lovinia Brenneman, who raised only to learn that she wasn't their biological daughter. Switched at birth with an Englisch baby, Skylar, Arianna had agreed to the swapping to keep the Amish midwife out of jail for allowing something so horrible to happen. Skylar agreed to the arrangement as the lesser of two evils, because of her drug use. But now Ariana is torn between the two world, the modern world that she has had a taste of and doesn't entirely want to give up, and the calm structured and confining world of the Amish that she grew up in. Add all this plus the fact that Skylar is still living in her room and sleeping in her bed while Ariana sleeps on the floor, and that Skylar definitely does not want her there, leads to a very stressful situation. Even though the Amish often seem calm and serene on the surface, they often have just as intense problems as we do. Will Ariana and Skylar turn to the only One who can truly help them? Or will there never be peace in the Brennan household again?

I always enjoy Cindy Woodsmall's books, they are well written and full of surprises. She recapped the previous two books before beginning book 3 and that was most helpful, but I found myself wanting to go back and reread them as I was a little lost in the last book, with both the characters and story line.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Litfuse Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Many Sparrows

9/29/2017

"Many Sparrows"
by Lori Benton

Either she and her children would emerge from that wilderness together, or none of them would…

In 1774, the Ohio-Kentucky frontier pulses with rising tension and brutal conflicts as Colonists push westward and encroach upon Native American territories. The young Inglesby family is making the perilous journey west when an accident sends Philip back to Redstone Fort for help, forcing him to leave his pregnant wife Clare and their four-year old son Jacob on a remote mountain trail.
When Philip does not return and Jacob disappears from the wagon under the cover of darkness, Clare awakens the next morning to find herself utterly alone, in labor and wondering how she can to recover her son...especially when her second child is moments away from being born.

Clare will face the greatest fight of her life, as she struggles to reclaim her son from the Shawnee Indians now holding him captive. But with the battle lines sharply drawn, Jacob’s life might not be the only one at stake. When frontiersman Jeremiah Ring comes to her aid, can the stranger convince Clare that recovering her son will require the very thing her anguished heart is unwilling to do—be still, wait and let God fight this battle for them?
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What an amazing and powerfully written story of faith and trusting in God. Set in the late 1700's, on the Ohio -Kentucky frontier, Many Sparrows tells of the many trials and conflicts our forefathers faced as they settled the new frontier, and tried to live among the Indians. Expecting their second child, Clare and their four year old son Jacob are left by her husband Philip as he heads back to Redstone Fort for help following an accident. Left on a remote mountain trail, moments away from giving birth, Clare doesn't know what to do when her son disappears in the black inky darkness.

Clare without the help of her husband Philip who doesn't return must accept the help of a stranger, Jeremiah Ring , to rescue her son from the Shawnee. A frontiersman, well acquainted with their Indian ways tries to convince Clare the best thing for her to do is not an easy task, and that is to wait and let God fight this battle for them.

Lori paints vivid pictures with her colorful words and makes you feel as if you are there in the midst of the action. I deeply appreciate her use of the King James Bible when quoting scripture. This book serves to remind us that our God cares for us deeply just as he cares for a tiny sparrow, nothing or no one is too big or too small for His loving care.

I received a complimentary copy of this book Litfuse Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

The Maggie Bright

9/29/2017

"The Maggie Bright"
by Tracy Groot

England, 1940. Clare Childs knew life would change when she unexpectedly inherited the Maggie Bright―a noble fifty-two-foot yacht. In fact, she’s counting on it. But the boat harbors secrets. When a stranger arrives, searching for documents hidden onboard, Clare is pulled into a Scotland Yard investigation that could shed light on Hitler’s darkest schemes and prompt America to action.

Across the Channel, Hitler’s Blitzkrieg has the entire British army in retreat with little hope for rescue at the shallow beaches of Dunkirk. With time running out, Churchill recruits civilian watercraft to help. Hitler is attacking from land, air, and sea, and any boat that goes might not return. Yet Clare knows Maggie Bright must answer the call―piloted by an American who has refused to join the war effort until now and a detective with a very personal motive for exposing the truth.

The fate of the war hinges on this rescue. While two men join the desperate fight, a nation prays for a miracle.
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I love reading World War II novels, so I was very excited to read this one especially since the story takes place during a part of the War of which I was unfamiliar. The book started out a little slow and a bit confusing, but as the story progressed, I was drawn into the evacuation of Dunkirk. Since the story is based on the War, there are some intense parts and some parts that will make you cry. If you are a fan of historical novels especially World War II era, then I would recommend this book to you.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

The Promise of Breeze Hill

9/29/2017

"The Promise of Breeze Hill"
by Pam Hillman

Natchez, MS; 1791
Anxious for his brothers to join him on the rugged frontier along the Mississippi River, Connor O’Shea has no choice but to indenture himself as a carpenter in exchange for their passage from Ireland. But when he’s sold to Isabella Bartholomew of Breeze Hill Plantation, Connor fears he’ll repeat past mistakes and vows not to be tempted by the lovely lady.

The responsibilities of running Breeze Hill have fallen on Isabella’s shoulders after her brother was found dead in the swamps along the Natchez Trace and a suspicious fire devastated their crops, almost destroyed their home, and left her father seriously injured. Even with Connor’s help, Isabella fears she’ll lose her family’s plantation. Despite her growing feelings for the handsome Irish carpenter, she seriously considers accepting her wealthy and influential neighbor’s proposal of marriage.

Soon, though, Connor realizes someone is out to eliminate the Bartholomew family. Can he set aside his own feelings to keep Isabella safe?
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I love historical fiction books; so when I had the offer to read this intriguing novel, I jumped at the chance. What intrigued me most about his novel was that it is about a time in history that I didn't know much about. So I really enjoyed learning about and discovering the Natchez Trace. The author did an amazing job of describing the scenery and developing the characters that I felt as I was right there with them as they worked the land on the plantation. Filled with suspense, romance, determination, and faith this is a must read story.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Publishers in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Under Fire

9/22/2017

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Book

Book title: Under Fire
Author: Linda Shenton Matchett
Release date: July 25, 2017
Genre: Mystery

"Under Fire"
by Linda Shenton Matchett

Journalist Ruth Brown’s sister Jane is pronounced dead after a boating accident in April 1942. Because Jane’s body is missing, Ruth is convinced her sister is still alive. During her investigation, Ruth becomes suspicious about Jane’s job. Eventually Ruth follows clues to war-torn London. By the time she uncovers the truth about Jane’s disappearance, she has stumbled on black marketers, resistance fighters and the IRA – all of whom may want her dead.
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From the very beginning the reader is drawn into a compelling story with many sinister twists and turns. Ruth just doesn't want to believer that her sister is really dead. She will stop at nothing to find out the truth behind her sister's disappearance. She is so determined that she even goes to London even though the War is raging. Along the way she meets a Czechoslovakian man who wants to help, but she isn't really sure if he is trustworthy. As she struggles with her faith, Ruth wonders if she will ever find out what really happened to her sister. If you are looking for a thrilling adventure that will keep you guessing until the end, then this is the book for you.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Linda Shenton Matchett is a journalist, blogger, and author. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry, Linda has lived in historical places most of her life. She is a volunteer docent at the Wright Museum of WWII and as a Trustee for the Wolfeboro Public Library. Active in her church Linda serves as treasurer, usher, choir member, and Bible study leader. She is author of several romance novellas and novelettes. Under Fire, the first in her trilogy about amateur sleuth/war correspondent Ruth Brown, has just been released by eLectio Publishing (electiopublishing.com).

Guest Post from Linda Shenton Matchett
Writers are often asked where they get ideas for their stories. Many authors start with a “what if” scenario (e.g. what if the fate of a world lies in the hands of a young man who must return a ring of great power to its place of origin: The Lord of the Rings). Other authors find inspiration in news articles (Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express). I begin my stories by creating the main character.
As a former Human Resources professional, I am fascinated by the history of women’s employment and enjoy reading about those who trail blazed in industries and positions formerly dominated by men. When I was trying to decide what my protagonist should do for a living, I knew she needed a job that allowed her freedom of movement, but nothing seemed to fit until I saw a museum exhibit about women war correspondents. Of the 1,600 journalists who received government accreditation, only 127 were female.
In order to get a sense of what these women experienced (derision, hostility, sexual harassment, and more) I read their memoirs, autobiographies, diaries, and articles. As an accredited correspondent they were supposed to received meals, transport to the front, and transmission of their articles. Many military officers refused to take the women into combat zones, so they had to get there any way they could, such as Martha Gellhorn who stowed away on a hospital ship and hid in the head to reach Normandy and cover D-day. It is my hope that Under Fire honors these brave and tenacious women in some small way.

BLOG STOPS
It’s Storytime with Van Daniker, September 14
Blogging With Carol, September 14
Avid Reader Book Reviews September 15
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 16
cherylbbookblog, September 17
Carpe Diem, September 17
A Reader’s Brain, September 18
Bigreadersite, September 18
Blossoms and Blessings, September 19
The Fizzy Pop Collection, September 19
Janices book reviews, September 20
Back Porch Reads, September 20
A Baker’s Perspective, September 21
Just the Write Escape, September 21
Pause for Tales , September 22
Have A Wonderful Day, September 22
Lights in a Dark World , September 23
Connie’s History Classroom , September 23
Karen Sue Hadley, September 24
Vicky Sluiter, September 25
Daysong Reflections , September 25
Mary Hake, September 26
Ashley’s Bookshelf September 26
Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, September 27
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 27

GIVEAWAY

To celebrate her tour, Linda is giving away a grand prize consisting of: copy of the book, Box of English Tea, Typewriter notepad, and Rosie the Riveter socks!! Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/c221

The Two of Us

9/20/2017

"The Two of Us"
by Victoria Bylin

After two broken engagements, nurse practitioner Mia Robinson is done with dating. From now on, she only trusts herself and God, and she's focused on her eighteen-year-old sister, Lucy, and caring for patients. Just as she applies to work for an international aid organization, a phone call from Lucy, who's pregnant and running off to marry her twenty-one-year-old boyfriend, throws a wrench into all of Mia's plans.

Jake Tanner may have recovered from the physical injuries he sustained on the job as a police officer, but his heart has yet to heal from losing his former partner in the tragedy. He's poured himself into starting a camp for the sons of fallen officers and mentoring Sam, the adult son of his deceased partner, who's asked him to be his best man at his wedding.

Mia is expecting a mess when she arrives to sort out the situation with Lucy, but she wasn't expecting Jake. And Jake, who can't help envying Sam and Lucy, doubts he'll ever experience their happiness for himself. But maybe Jake's courage and Mia's caring spirit are just what they need to bring them a lifetime of healing and a forever kind of love. . . .
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This is a great story of faith and trusting God. All of the characters in this book are dealing with some kind of issue. As they deal with their very issues, they learn to rely on each other and on God to help them through their troubles. God is always there waiting to help us, but we just have to ask Him for that help. This is what the characters in the book learn. While I really wanted to like this book, I just could not get into it. There are some issues and details in this story that I could have done without reading. (Too many pregnancy details for example) I know I am a sensitive reader, so not everyone will have problems with the graphic details.

Parental Guidance: This book deals with pregnancy outside of marriage, sex, and violence.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

My Heart Belongs in the Shenandoah Valley

9/20/2017

"My Heart Belongs in the Shenandoah Valley"
by Andrea Boeshaar

Journey into the Shenandoah Valley of 1816 where...
With Very Little Left of the Family Farm, Lily May be Forced into a Loveless Marriage.

Captain McAlister “Mac” Albright has purchased land in the Shenandoah Valley. However, the land belongs to Lillyanna Laughlin—or so she erroneously thinks. Mac sets her straight and despite a poor start, the two become friends. . .if only he were financially stable to offer her more.

When Lily’s life is threatened and his whole future goes up in flames, Mac truly becomes a man without means, and Lily is forced to make the impossible choice between a loveless marriage with a man twice her age or the man who has shown her what true love could be. How can she choose between love and economic security? Her family is depending on her. Is her heart destined to break?

Journey into Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley of 1816 where a woman’s dreams and future happiness are on the line.
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This story starts out with action and conflicts, a theme that carries throughout the entire book. Lily is torn between doing what is right for her family or following her heart. She also finds it hard to decide who she can really believe. She doesn't want to think bad about her father's best friend, but as things keep going from bad to worse, she is forced to realize the truth about him. The author does an excellent job of describing the scenery in this story. I felt like I was taking a stroll through the orchards! Filled with many twists and turns, romance, and a hint of mystery this is a must read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.