Prayers Needed...

Madeline Belle is not yet one year old...

Most of her life has been in hospital...

She came home on Friday...

She was readmitted in ER on Tuesday...

We ask for prayers...

She is so little...

An her Mum and Dad are so sad...

Please pray for all three of them!

National Moment of Remembrance...

Tomorrow throughout America a minute of silence will be observed at 1500 hours to remember the war dead...

It is known as National moment of Remembrance...

Please join Military families, friends and loved ones and pray for the living as well!

For Richard, John, Gunny, Tania, Joshua, Mike, and Aaron...

A Love Forbidden by Kathleen Morgan, Book review

Synopsis:

Moved by the desire for adventure and a yearning to help the Ute Indians, twenty-year-old Shiloh Wainright impulsively accepts a teaching position at the White River Indian Agency in northwestern Colorado. The new job, however, isn't what she imagined it would be, and Shiloh soon finds herself caught in the cross fire between the Utes, their unyielding Indian Agent, and the unrealistic demands of the US government. Her unexpected encounter with Jesse Blackwater, an embittered half-breed Ute and childhood friend, only complicates matters as they battle their growing feelings for each other amidst the spiraling tensions threatening to explode into a catastrophic Indian uprising.

Set amongst the wilds of the Colorado Rockies in 1879, this is a tale of a forbidden love and a faith tested in the cauldron of intolerance and the harsh realities of life on the untamed frontier.

My thoughts:

'A Love Forbidden', Book # 2 in Heart of the Rockies series reads like a Western with a powerful message: intolerance is the root of many evils!

Once again Baker Revell brings us an interesting author and I was pleasantly surprised in Kathleen Morgan's vivid descriptions of the 1800 Colorado Rockies! 

There is so much History in the US, often misconstrued yet as rich as many older nations!

I love to discover yet another facet of the Old West and I believe I mentioned it before, the first novel I read in English was written by Louis l'Amour! 

Kathleen Morgan's tasteful description of Shiloh Wainwright and Jesse Blackwater's love story gives us a realistic outlook on frontier life in the 1800's Colorado and the Ute reservation. 

As a teacher on the Indian reservation Shiloh hopes to help Indian children learn the White Man's ways whilst retaining their identity. Her task is not easy as she deals with narrow minded agencies and wary settlers.

Jesse Blackwater is the childhood friend she never forgot and caught betwixt both the White man's world and the Ute worlds, they find themselves caught in a maelstrom of emotions and conflicts, both internal and external.

'A Love Forbidden' might have been just another Historical romance but Kathleen Morgan draws you in the story and you immerse yourself in it. The sum of a good novel, right?

It is always amazing to read lines which create such a vivid panoramic picture of times gone by and in turn creates such powerful emotions! 

Amidst prejudice and growing political tension betwixt both the White and Indian world, you find yourself wondering if you would have the courage and wisdom to do what is right. In such circumstances, where would you stand as a Christian? 

Kathleen Morgan seems to breathe this time period and spares no details to entice us visually. Life on the frontier was often harsh, supplies limited, and communication slow due to long distances betwixt forts and settlements. 

When one side fails to honour its word, the other decided to take action...

Red headed Shiloh is as tenacious in her convictions as in her love for Jesse, whilst he sees the road ahead in a very realistic way. Will they be able to bridge both worlds and find love, acceptance, forgiveness and ultimately peace?

Well depicted, this is a thought provoking story which illustrates the power of love and faith in a world often riddled with prejudice and ignorance.

In the end, you are in God's hands and given the chance, Shiloh and Jesse will come to realize nothing is impossible for them with His help.

I give it 4  stars.

About the Author:

Kathleen Morgan describes herself as 'Refined by Fire, Redeemed by Love, and as you will quickly realize is a well published author with amazing talents! It seems she likes to write on variety of subjects.

If you liked this book, be sure to sign up for her newsletter!

For more visit her website (here).

I received this book free from BAKER/REVELL as part of their blogger review program.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Laughing feels so good!

A Corgi smile is the same anywhere in the world!

(Photo by The Daily Corgi)

Note to readers: A Corgi photo a day makes all the blues go away (at least in my case so my children often indulge by sending me corgi photos!)

Laughter is the sun that drives winter from the human face.  
~Victor Hugo~

Forever Hilltop by Judy Baer, Two Books In One Volume Review

Synopsis:

The charming and often hilarious Forever Hilltop series follows the experiences of former city dweller Alex Armstrong as he settles into his new role as pastor of a Scandinavian community in rural North Dakota. Alex is sometimes baffled by his parishioners and their colorful ways, but he comes to appreciate their simple wisdom. One thing's for sure -- life in Hilltop Township is never dull! This new two-in-one format features An Unlikely Blessing along with its sequel, Surprising Grace.

In An Unlikely Blessing, Alex Armstrong is a former city dweller who has just accepted his first parish assignment to a small community in the wilds of North Dakota. In Hilltop Township, Pastor Alex becomes familiar with the residents and their odd traditions, from julebukking to King Oscar's fish balls.

In Surprising Grace, Alex Armstrong is settling into his new role as pastor of Hilltop Church, and he's even starting to understand the strange ways of the people who populate this barren stretch of North Dakota prairie. But he also finds that his flock needs help and counsel like he never imagined. In this cozy and entertaining read, Alex must choose between the woman he once loved -- and the home he's come to love.

My thoughts:

This is my first opportunity to review two books in one and I was absolutely thrilled to find out what happens next to Pastor Alex and his congregation!

Readers will recall I reviewed 'An Unlikely Blessing' in February of 2011 (see review HERE) and I enjoyed finding all the little quirks of Hilltop Church!

Judy Baer is one of those amazing writers who appeals to any reader! Reading her books feels as if you are meeting a friend!

An award winning author of dozen novels, she brings us a down to earth and very entertaining insight on a single pastor and his flock on the Prairie, full of blessings and yes, surprising grace!

The best way I can describe the feeling you get when discovering 'Forever Hilltop' it is by telling readers this writer knows how to make you live, love and laugh! A winning recipe if I ever heard one!

At times hilarious, other so realistic you will find yourself praying along the parishioners, you discover your neighbour or even church friend in her novels (and a lot about yourself!).

There are perhaps some unusual characters  in Pastor Alex's congregation...For example the 80 year old driving above the limit at her own perils (and everyone else!), the lonely senior citizen who concocts her own health remedies, the 8 year old electing to keep critters in the parish shed and starting his own 'doomaine society', Twinkle Toes...the sow, Tripod...the canine best friend (it is up to you to figure out why he is called like that!) and the many members of this warm heart community along with an unusual find right in the cemetery (you did not see this one coming, did you?).

Each character reveals yet another facet of human nature and you will discover Judy Baer's Forever Hilltop series gives you an incredible feeling of fellowship!

Thanks to her creative writing, it seems as we are sitting at her kitchen table, drinking a cuppa and yes, hearing the latest gossip...You feel as you belong! Your heart will be full!

Will Alex discover Hilltop fellowship is what he has been looking for in his ministry? And will he find the love and companionship he is yearning for?

Go ahead, find out what happens when a pastor learns how to bake his own bread and looks in his heart...

Judy Baer even shares some great recipes with readers!

I give it 5 stars for the good feeling this series gives me!

About the Author:

'Judy was born and grew up on a farm on the prairies of North Dakota. An only child, she spent most of her days with imaginary people-either those she read about or those she made up in her head. Her most ambitious conjuring did not succeed, however. 

She kept a clean stall with hay and oats for the horse she imagined would come but unfortunately, it never did. As an adult, however, she managed to make that dream come true and raised foundation quarter horses and buffalo for some years. 

A voracious reader, Judy learned to read with comic books, anything from Little Lulu and Superman to the Rawhide Kid. She sold her first story for $10.00 to a farm magazine. She still has the $10.00.'

More on her website (here)

AND NOW FOR THE FOREVER HILLTOP KINDLE GIVEAWAY!

Celebrate with Judy by entering to win a Kindle for you and a friend!

One lucky winner will receive:

• Brand New KINDLE with Wi-Fi
• Brand New KINDLE with Wi-Fi to Giveaway to a Friend!
• Forever Hilltop by Judy K Baer for you and a one for a friend

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 22nd (today!).  
Winner will be announced 5/24/12 on Judy's Blog.

 

Don't miss a moment of the fun. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning!

I received this book free from LITFUSE as part of their blogger review program.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

  

Backyard Horse Tales by Jackie Easton, Book review

Synopsis:

Born with a brave heart and an in your face attitude, Sox was also born with a leg that was not quite right. His courage and complete disregard for his handicap inspire his little friend Emma.

Young Emma Struggles with a learning disability. This lonely child befriends Sox and an unbreakable bond is formed. 

Readers share in Sox's adventures, his friends, and his challenges. Sox is a heart-warming tale for every child who has ever dreamed of a special horse, and for anyone who has loved an equine partner.

My thoughts:

Through a Quarterhorse's view of our busy world and the heartwarming diary of a young girl named Emma with a learning disability, we discover the story of Sox. 

Sox is a horse born with, you guessed it, socks on his hind legs!

Told with a knowledgeable equine insight, you cannot fail to recognize this author's love for horses!  Jackie Anton after all has many years of experience and like every horse owner she has a few anecdotes I am certain that will have you chuckle! Every herd has its clown as I well recall!

'Backyard Horse Tales' is a warm heart story anyone, young and not so young, will fall in love with! There is a magnetism about these beautiful creatures which makes any youngster dream of befriending a favourite steed! 

Anyone who has seen a wild herd running will attest to God's amazing creation!

In this 2nd edition of 'Backyard Horse Tales' we follow Sox as he discovers his surroundings and forges a special friendship with Emma. Through his colt's eyes we see there is much more to live in a stable that eating and exercising. And not everything is as he wishes...

Emma's diary leads us to understand their very special relationship as Sox grows from a foal to a colt and eventually a gelding. As time goes by, both horse and child have much to learn and share with the other. Growing up is not always easy...

Despite the odds, both Sox and Emma dare to be different and eventually overcome their challenges!

There has been countless stories written about horses and their human friends but I found this one absolutely endearing! 

An excellent gift, it is certain to become a favourite book for parents and grandparents to share with any youngster 8 years old and up. The unfolding story and its ultimate message will be treasured for years to come!

I give it 4 stars!

About the Author:

'Jackie Anton was born in Michigan, and much of her first five years were spent there. Most of her remaining years she called Ohio home. By the time she reached high school the author had been enrolled in thirty-two schools from the Great Lakes to the Panhandle of Texas.

As a mother, horse trainer and showman, youth adviser, and horse show judge her travels continued. Visiting new locations, and meeting new people is something she still enjoys. Her travels are reflected in her writing. Backyard Horse Tales documents some of those travels from an equine point of view.'

For more on Jackie visit her website (here).

As part of this blog tour I would like to invite readers to check additional reviews - see below

Paula @ Book Lover Stop

Ruth @ The Devotional Thoughts

Elemillia @ Book Reviews, Fiction Reflectons, N’ More

Tom @ Tom Mach’s Blog

Morgen @ Morgen Bailey’s Writing Blog

Nicole @ Pretty Opinionated

Karen @ Writing From the Right Side of the Stall

Jacinta @ Thrice the Mischief, 3 times the love

Nanette @ Horse Sense and Cents

I received this E-book free from LIGHTNING BOOK PROMOTIONS as part of their blogger review program.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

 

 

The Pursuit Of Lucy Banning, by Olivia Newport, Book review

Synopsis:

Lucy Banning may live on the exclusive Prairie Avenue among Chicago's rich and famous, but her heart lies elsewhere. Expected to marry an up-and-coming banker from a respected family, Lucy fears she will be forced to abandon her charity work--and the classes she is secretly taking at the newly opened University of Chicago. When she meets an unconventional young architect who is working on plans for the upcoming 1893 World's Fair, Lucy imagines a life lived on her own terms. Can she break away from her family's expectations? And will she ever be loved for who she truly is?

Readers will love being swept away into a world of mansions, secrets, and romance as they follow Lucy through the streets of the Windy City during one of the most exciting times in the city's history. From opulent upper-class homes to the well-worn rooms of an orphanage, Olivia Newport breathes life and romance into the pages of history--and everyone is invited.

My thoughts:

Engaging and truly refreshing, 'The Pursuit of Lucy Banning'  brings us the first book in the 'Avenue Of Dreams' series. Just as the cover hints we are introduced to Lucy Banning, a young member of Chicago's elite society.  Elegant, privileged and yet unconventional for the late 1800's, Lucy does not conform to the required etiquette of society for women of such epoch.

Olivia Newport's heroine attends university classes and struggles to obtain a modicum of freedom whilst trying to remain a dutiful daughter and prepare herself as the future bride of one of Chicago's best prospects. As the novel unravels we discover not all is as it should be for the parties involved and Lucy must decide what is most important to her. 

This would have been just another light story but I found the 1893 World Fair in Chicago and the involvement of Chicago wealthy families, many who dedicated months, even years to its development truly fascinating. 

I was delighted to see the meticulous details she impart, allowing us a rich glimpse of this momentum in History. And what an amazing time it was! I love history and found the whole concept of attending such an event at the turn of the century absolutely intriguing. 

Ah, to be able to travel back in time!

And Olivia Newport weaves an interesting romance against this amazing event, perhaps unusual in view of the class system so rigid in that time period but this is the 'Avenue of Dreams,...

'The Pursuit of Lucy Banning' gives us an insight on the glitz of Chicago's High society whilst entertaining us with Lucy's secrets: to maintain her rights to a better education and her newly found attraction to an upcoming young architect she defies many rules. 
Her burgeoning friendship with a young woman of the lower class with a secret of her own, just another example of how much Lucy is willing to risk for someone she cares for.

Olivia Newport brings readers just the right sort of entertainment for a warm spring afternoon and even better, her website hints we can expect very soon to hear more about 'The Avenue of Dreams' series!

A delightful read for anyone interested in a good historical fiction and a story even YA will appreciate!

I give it 4 stars! 

About the Author:

'Hello! I’m imagining you. You walk past as I water my front flowerbeds and we wave. You check the time as we both stand in a long line at the grocery store. You sit in front of me in church. I’m at my table in the coffee shop and you’re at yours.

We may smile politely and move on with our separate lives. Or one of us may speak, a simple invitation to conversation, and the words flow between us...' 

Thus begins Olivia Newport's introduction and you can read more (here). Be sure to sign up for her newsletter! Book # 2 will be published in 2013!

I received this book free from BAKER/REVELL as part of their blogger review program.

I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.