Memorial Day Remembrance

To John, Mike, Richard, Tania, Gunny, Aaron, Limek and Phi and all the others...

The Guardian by Beverly Lewis, Book review

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers; 1 edition (March 26, 2013)

ISBN-13: 978-0764209796

Synopsis:


When schoolteacher Jodi Winfield goes for a morning run, the last thing she expects is to find a disheveled little girl all alone on the side of the Pennsylvania road, clad only in her undergarments, her chubby cheeks streaked with tears. Jodi takes the preschooler home with her, intending to find out where she belongs. But Jodi is mystified when no one seems to know of a missing child, and the girl herself is no help, since she can't speak a word of English. It's as if the child appeared out of nowhere.

As the days pass, Jodi becomes increasingly attached to the mysterious girl, yet she is no closer to learning her identity. Then an unexpected opportunity brings Jodi to Hickory Hollow--and into the cloistered world of the Lancaster Old Order Amish. Might the answers lie there?

Here are my thoughts:

Leave it to the matriarch of the Amish genre to come up with yet another gem! Since she first began to entertain us with stories of this cloistered community, Beverly Lewis has repeatedly captivated fans and acquired many new readers with her insight into this mysterious world few of us has seen and understand.

In 'Home To Hickory Hollow', Book # 3 'The Guardian' we discover a strong willed little Amish girl named Sarah and Jodi, the troubled young woman who finds the little darling when she tumbles out of her Mum's buggy and gets lost.

Beverly Lewis systematically introduces us to many facets of the Old Order Amish community we know little or next to nothing such as intermarriages and deriving genetic disorders or their reluctance to involve the authorities even in the case of a missing child.
I was surprised at the 'no pets allowed in a household' preference but cannot but marvel at their strong sense of community and survival in an ever encroaching English world.
The concept of an outsider being not only accepted in such a tight community as a close friend but also hired to teach their children even on a temporary basis was definitively unexpected.

Always at her best when she describes the ties that draw people together no matter their origins, Beverly Lewis approaches the subject of pain and loneliness which occurs after losing loved ones.
For Maryanna Esh, Joshua Peachey and Jodi Winfield, there is a lesson to be learned as long as they have faith! 

"The soul yearns for tranquility but the only real peace comes from communing with God." 

Returning readers will enjoy meeting old friends such as Ella Mae the Wise Woman and her down to earth approach to life but never fear this 'Home To Hickory Hollow' story stands on its own!

5 Stars!


About the Author:

Beverly Marie Jones (Lewis) was born in the heart of Amish country—Lancaster, Pennsylvania. At the tender age of nine, she began writing short stories and poetry. Prior to that, she made up lyrics to the "little fingers" piano pieces she learned, at the age of five.

"My mother saved everything I wrote, even the stories I dreamed up during my grade school years," Bev says. One such tale is semi-autobiographical, about a young girl whose parents can no longer afford to give her piano lessons. The manuscript was 77 pages long and titled "She Shall Have Music," penned under the shade of a lone willow tree. "Reading, writing, and playing piano have been top three on my list of favorite things," she says.

Source (HERE) and be sure to visit her website (HERE) 


I received this book from BETHANY HOUSE PUBLISHERS 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.

When Love Calls by Lorna Seilstad, Book review

Publisher: Revell (March 18, 2013)

ISBN-13: 978-0800721817

Synopsis:

Hannah Gregory is good at many things, but that list doesn't include following rules. So when she is forced to apply for a job as a telephone switchboard operator to support her two sisters, she knows it won't be easy. "Hello Girls" must conduct themselves according to strict--and often bewildering--rules. No talking to the other girls. No chatting with callers. No blowing your nose without first raising your hand. And absolutely no consorting with gentlemen while in training.

Meanwhile, young lawyer Lincoln Cole finds himself in the unfortunate position of having to enforce the bank's eviction of the three Gregory girls from their parents' home. He tries to soften the blow by supporting them in small ways as they settle into another home. But fiery Hannah refuses his overtures and insists on paying back every cent of his charity.

When one of Hannah's friends finds himself on the wrong side of a jail cell, Hannah is forced to look to Lincoln for help. Will it be her chance to return to her dreams of studying law? And could she be falling in love?
With historic details that bring to life the exciting first decade of the twentieth century, Lorna Seilstad weaves a charming tale of camaraderie and companionship that blossoms into love. Readers will get lost in this sweet romance and will eagerly look forward to championing each sister's dreams.


Here are my thoughts:


Book # 1 in the 'Gregory Sisters series', 'When Love Calls' offers fans of Lorna Seilstad a sweet combination of romance and marvelous historical insights on the working ethics for switchboard operators at the beginning of the 20th century! Lorna Seilstad is full of surprises!
Anyone who has read The Ride Of Her Life (see review HERE) will know what to expect from this vivacious author! She always gives you endearing characters you find yourself cheering as you uncover the plot!

When Hannah looses her parents to Influenza in 1908, she endeavours to leave Law School at Drake University and take care of her two younger sisters. 
However the Gregory sisters are facing imminent destitution when the bank files a notice of foreclose on the family farm. The notice is delivered by a charming young lawyer named Lincoln Cole who is determined to prove he is not the enemy. Hannah however is determined to accept no charity and refuses to accept his help.

Having moved into a modest cottage with her sisters Charlotte and Tessa, the spunky young woman notices an advertisement at the Grocer's for Switchboard operators. Hannah resolves to become one of the selected Hello Girls and with her friend Rosie embarks on the rigid training required for qualification.
Always feisty, Hannah  finds it hard to follow the nonsensical rules imposed by the Telephone Company. When she overhears a crucial conversation over the switchboard she remains silent and unwittingly sets up dramatic events.

Complete with a touch of mystery, a little romance and the wonderful historical touches Lorna's novels are known for, this will appeal to anyone with a good sense of humour! For a woman of her generation Hannah is thoroughly unique and you will enjoy discovering the many characters which this story introduces you to.

Somewhat akin to time traveling, 'When Love Calls' is a delightful beginning to a new series you will not want to miss! Combining family values, solid friendship, sweet romance and good Christian ethics, Lorna Seilstad opens a world we can only dream of!

5 stars!

“Available May 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

About the Author:

A history buff, antique collector, and freelance graphic designer, Lorna Seilstad is the author of Making Waves, A Great Catch, and The Ride of Her Life. A former high school English and journalism teacher, she has won several online writing contests and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers.

Visit her website (HERE).

I received this book 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.

The Cat That God Sent And The Dog That Talked To God By Jim Kraus, Books reviews

 

Publisher: Abingdon Press (April 1, 2013)

ISBN-13: 978-1426765612

Synopsis About The Cat That God Sent: 

Meet Petey, your not-so-average cat-on a mission from God

Disillusioned young pastor, Jake Wilkerson, has just arrived at his new assignment in the small rural church of Coudersport, Pennsylvania. Also new on the scene is Petey, a cat of unknown origins and breed-but of great perception.

As Jake sets about doing the business of ministry, Petey's continued interference brings chaos to the community of curiously off and eccentric people-residents like the faith-avoiding veterinarian Sally Grainger and Tassy, a young runaway with a secret. An expert at hiding his fears, Jake wonders if all this-and the cat to boot-is more than he can handle. 
What is Petey's real "mission"? Perhaps something larger than Jake---or even Petey---can possibly know.

Here are my thoughts:

A blithe chronicle of a conscientious albeit somewhat disillusioned young pastor, his new if slightly cockeyed congregation and the confounded cat who adopts him! If you are looking for a good book to relax with, this is the one! (And you may judge from its cover, a delightful read!)

In 'The Cat That God Sent' Jim Kraus transcends in this tale of a warmhearted if slightly eccentric Midwest congregation welcoming Jake Wilkerson, their newly appointed pastor. 
This novel bears also a bittersweet reminder that secrets will haunt us no matter how hard we try to forget and that God knows all!

Sparing no humour in the descriptive of his colourful protagonists, (my favourite were caustic Vern and his long suffering wife Eleanor, priceless!) Jim Kraus entertains whilst conveying a few lessons as well...

Let's not forget of course the main star, Petey, the most unusual feline whom God sent after all and who is on a mission! There is something beguiling in a cat so astute even for those of us 'dog people'!

Finally, I give 5 stars to Jim Kraus for his depiction of a most sensitive subject!

The Cat that God Sent is a delicious page turner guaranteed to make you smile and make you wish for more of the same caliber!

 Publisher: Abingdon Press (March 1, 2012)

 ISBN-13: 978-1426742569

Synopsis about The Dog That Talked To God:

Recently widowed Mary Fassler buys a Miniature Schnauzer, Rufus, and her world is turned sideways in the midst of her grief.  It seems that Rufus speaks. And not just to her. He also talks to God. When Rufus begins sharing advice that could result in major changes, Mary gets the feeling the pooch might not be steering her in the right direction. Or, is she just afraid to take the leap and discover something she desperately needs? Only Rufus...and God...knows.

Here are my thoughts:

I surprised myself by choosing to read this book after reading That Cat that God Sent since I would describe myself very much a dog person! 
I am however a firm believer in 'there is a reason for everything in life' and this evidently is one occasion...

So about 'The Dog That Talked To God', Jim Kraus writes a likable story of a fourty something grieving widow who lost her husband and son to a freak car accident two years ago. Facing daily reminders of being the lone survivor, Mary has long ago stopped praying. 
One day, she undertakes to adopt a small Schnauzer which she names Rufus. And during one of his constitutionals one evening, Rufus speaks...

Whilst I cannot deny Jim Kraus writes skillfully of a painful subject, I found the subject of a neurotic housewife, writer of a handful of novels, desperately looking for some answer to her despondent fortuity, mostly bromidic.  
Despite a handful of comical circumstances and happenings (do some dogs really favour Key Lime Pie?), in a nutshell, Rufus cannot compare to Petey!

There is a sweet twist in the end and it is a pleasant story if you have the patience to find out. 

I give it 3 1/2 stars.

Landing page: 

http://litfusegroup.com/author/jkraus

About the Author:

Jim Kraus is a longtime writer and editor who has authored or co-authored more than 20 books, both fiction and nonfiction. His best-selling humor book, Bloopers, Blunders, Jokes, Quips, and Quotes, was published by Tyndale House Publishers, sold more than 40,000 copies and inspired several spin-off books. Jim, and his wife, novelist Terri Kraus, and one son, live in the Chicago area.

Also residing with them is a sweet and gentle miniature schnauzer named Rufus. Coincidently, Rufus is also the name of the dog in Jim's latest book, The Dog That Talked to God. "What a coincidence," Jim said. "What are the odds of that happening?" They also share space with an ill-tempered Siberian cat named Petey.

Jim recently was awarded a Master of Writing Arts degree from DePaul University. "Now, I am able to write more better," Jim said. (Yes, that is supposed to be humorous.)
Passionate about writing, Jim loves to create true-to-life characters. "I tend to be the one at the party that is on the edge of things--observing how folks act and react. Plus, I'm not that crazy about people in general--so it works out fine." (Again, it's supposed to be funny.)
The idea of the last book came from Jim's twice-daily walks with his dog, Rufus. "I tend to think through problems as we walk, and I sometimes, softly, pose questions to the noble dog Rufus. And if he could, he would answer them. I know he wants to. Sometimes I give his answers a voice. And I imagined that most pet-owners do the same thing. The idea of a talking dog didn't seem so far-fetched. And the story grew from there."

Visit his website (HERE)

I received these books 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.

Armed Forces Day!

President Harry S. Truman led the effort to establish a single holiday for citizens to come together and thank US military members for their patriotic service in support of their country.

 

On August 31, 1949, Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson announced the creation of an Armed Forces Day to replace separate Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force Days.
The single day celebration stemmed from the unification of the Armed Forces under the Department of Defense of the USA.

TO ALL THE BRAVE MEN AND WOMEN WHO SERVE THEIR COUNTRY AND THEIR FAMILIES FOR SUPREME SACRIFICE!

THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS,

For John, Mike, Tania, Gunny, Richard, Aaron, Limek, Phi and all the others...

BE SAFE!

(Source HERE)

Winners, Winners...

WINNERS, WINNERS...

It's always nice to announce a Giveaway result but it is even better when there is an opportunity to announce the name of two (2) giveaways winners!

Let's begin with...

For those of you who have not read the review (see HERE)!

So without further ado the winner of Can't Wait Willow's giveaway is...

JANICE at BLUEBELL WOODS!

May 10, 2013 at 5:50 PM

'Looks like a nice little book, thank you for entering me.'

CONGRATULATIONS JANICE! Christy delivers a great book to learn how to make the right choices and the illustrations are perfect for little ones, Janice!
I will contact you shortly to confirm this win! Thanks for entering! 

A heartfelt thank you to PROPELLER for the opportunity to pass on quality books!

Oh, I love to give things away!!

Next for 'Roses Have Thorns' (see review HERE)...

The winner is....

KAYLA RICE!

May 10, 2013 at 8:46 PM

'This looks very interesting. Would love to read this book.'

CONGRATULATIONS KAYLA! I hope you will enjoy reading Sandra's novel!

I will contact you to confirm your win shortly and thank you for entering!

Many thanks to Sandra Byrd and HOWARD BOOKS for this sweet opportunity!

Again thank you to everyone who entered the giveaways! There are many more opportunities in the future so check back!

In Retrospective...

This is a month for retrospect (maybe because it is a birthday month?) I wonder if I am the only one puzzled at how fast time goes...Friday seems to come right after Monday...What happened to the rest of the week? 

Making the most of life's blessings seems to be every body's goal (judging from the Time Management sundry available!) a lesson I learned as a child (I was raised by someone who grabbed life with both ends!) but whilst I am pretty good at it most of the time, the hours just fly by! Outch!

Oh well, since it is Friday, here is a recap of my week:
(Photos only, little wisdom to share, sorry!)
How did your week go?

Sunday

A stroll by the shipyard nearby...

Monday

Gulls here are rather large as you can tell!

Tuesday

 

A trip to the city yielded this intriguing sculpture!

Wednesday

Beachcombing, a great pastime after a stormy night...

Thursday

Trying a Coconut, Brown Sugar, Banana Bread recipe courtesy of lovely Joanne Bischof for those of you who would like to try it!

(Madelief, notice the Bavarian china cup and saucer, a Charity shoppe find! That makes 5 1/2 pieces!)

Friday

This is a Corgi full recovered and wishing to be noticed (as in play Frisbee please NOW)

Saturday will see the announcement of the Giveaways (HERE and HERE) winners!  You can still enter until Midnight!