The Governess of Penwythe Hall by Sarah E. Ladd {Book Review}

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"How foolish to think she'd be safe in this little Penwythe refuge, 

with its idyllic seashores, rolling orchards, and ancient gardens.

She'd lost sight of how the Greythornes would stop 

at nothing to get their way."

CORDELA GREYTHORNE is no stranger to hardship and heartache. Forced to leave her home in Cornwall three years ago after being blamed for her husband's death, she began a new life as a governess to five children in Yorkshire. Though suffocated by secrets, she tried to bury herself in her work. It was the only way to escape the fear of her mother-in-law's parting warning and curse spoken against her. 

Unfortunately, Cordelia finds her life in upheaval again when her employer suffers a fatal riding accident. She gives her word to a dying man and promises to stay with his children even though it means returning to Cornwall. Will she be able to keep her secrets and remain unnoticed, or will she be putting her life and possibly others' lives in danger?

JAC TWETHEWEY longs to restore Penwythe Hall to its former glory. While busy trying to revive the once-thriving apple orchards, his plans are interrupted when his distant brother's children, along with their governess and tutor, arrive unexpectedly. 

Determined to be a good guardian, Jac spends time getting to know the children of his deceased brother. However, it's not only the children he's growing attached to. Despite the mystery surrounding Delia and her past, Jac can't help but be drawn to the governess. He desires to provide for and protect her in any way he can. If he only knew how. When betrayal and disaster threaten his financial security, he wonders if he'll be able to continue providing for his new charges.

Unfortunate circumstances brought Jac and Cordelia together, but will secrets, danger, and betrayal tear them apart? 

The Governess of Penwythe Hall is Sarah E. Ladd's latest regency romance and is the first book in the Cornwall series. 

My Thoughts

I like novels set in England's early nineteenth century, and I like governesses as main characters too. The Governess of Penwythe Hall has both! I'm already familiar with and fond of Ladd's writing style, so I figured this would be a wonderful story to abandon myself to each night before bed. The apple orchard setting captured my heart right away! I love apple trees and desperately miss having my own.  

Besides the lovely apple trees, I liked getting to know the main characters Jac and Cordelia, or Delia as she's called in the book. The main focus is on them: Delia trying to make a new life but having to deal with her dangerous past, Jac trying to revive his estate and dealing with the unexpected responsibility of having to provide for his nieces and nephews, and of course the possibility of a budding romance between the two. I don't remember their faith being mentioned a bunch, but it is there subtly woven throughout the book.

The plot was predictable but in a comfortable way. I wasn't bored at all. I looked forward to finding out about Delia's secrets and how everything would play out. Mystery and threat of danger kept the pages turning. Though I had a feeling the end would turn out how it did, I wasn't disappointed.

It's always fun to start a new book series, but I sure wish I didn't have to wait until January 2020 to read the sequel to this lovely book! If you like good, clean, and wholesome English historical romance novels, The Governess of Penwythe Hall is worth the read.

Book Rating:  5 stars

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this ebook free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Daughters of Northern Shores by Joanne Bischof {Book Review}

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A brother's regret.

An enemy's revenge.

Both may draw the Norgaard family back together again.

But at what cost?

Aven Norgaard is finally feeling settled in Blackbird Mountain. The sorrow of losing her husband in Norway and the difficulty of sailing to America to begin a new life are but shadows now. Aven is enjoying married life once more, and she and Thor are anticipating the birth of their first child. 

All seems to be going well until Thor, who has been deaf since birth, agrees to an interview and medical examination to help the Bureau of Research for the Deaf and Dumb. During the interview Thor and Aven discover that longtime enemies of the Norgaards are back in town causing trouble. Shortly after the examination, Thor becomes extremely ill. Liver disease from past drinking habits or foul play?

Haakon Norgaard, Thor's youngest brother, has spent the last four years at sea running from his past. Time and distance have done nothing to erase the pain and regret of trying to force more than friendship upon Aven. And now there's a widow in Norway to add to his list of regrets. Longing to finally make amends, Haakon is torn between two women on opposite shores and wonders if he'll be welcomed by either. 

Determined to start somewhere, Haakon finds himself in a battle that may cost him more than he bargained for. In the end, will Haakon find restoration or rejection?

Daughters of Northern Shores is the sequel to Sons of Blackbird Mountain.

My Thoughts

Even though I haven't read the first novel in this series, Sons of Blackbird Mountain, I was captivated by Daughters of Northern Shores. This was my first acquaintance with award-winning author, Joanne Bischof, and I'm definitely craving more from her! 

Her writing is emotionally deep and rich, which created a story that I felt more than read. Joanne has a way with words that caused me to pause and ponder along the way. Oh, and there's this quote (actually part of a quote) that I absolutely adore and would love to have on my living room wall: ". . . with time and lives precious, there seemed no better hour than this." This quote is such a wonderful reminder for me to be present and take advantage of the time given to me each moment.  

The icing on the already delicious cake for me was the fact that the Norgaard family hails from Norway. Norwegian blood runs in my veins, and my grandpa even bears the name of Thorson. It's just fun to read stories about places my own ancestors are from. 

I think it's safe to say it's a good book when tears stain my cheeks as the end of the novel draws near. Tears for the words wrecking my heart and tears for reminders of loves and losses in my own life. 

I loved this Christian novel and can't wait to go back and read Sons of Blackbird Mountain!

Book Rating: 5 stars

Purchase the book here.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this ebook free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Christian Farmhouse Style Easter Decor

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As much as I love all things that represent spring and Easter, Jesus' death and resurrection shines brightest! Nothing wrong, in my opinion, with bunnies and carrots and such. However, if you're a Christian who loves to decorate for Easter, consider adding some faith-based items to your trimmings. All items are from Etsy. :)

Happy Shopping!

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He Is Risen Sign

He Is Risen Pillow Cover

Worthy is the Lamb Sign

He is Risen Wood & Black Sign

Pastel Dunn Inspired Eggs

Christ The Lord Is Risen Today Sign

5x5 Shelf Sitter Cross Sign

Tetelestai Sign

Mini He is Risen Sign

It is Finished Sign

Easter Burlap Banner

He is Risen Tea Towel

Dunn Inspired Faith Egg Decals

Crown of Thorns Love Sign

Barnwood Cross

Cross Wreath

By His Wounds Sign

With This Pledge by Tamera Alexander {Book Review}

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Near Civil War's end, a five-hour battle wreaks havoc on the land.

Lives are disrupted as nearby Carnton Plantation is suddenly transformed 

into a hospital for wounded Confederate soldiers.

Amidst unimaginable suffering, friendships are forged, promises are made, 

and an unlikely romance is kindled.

ELIZABETH "LIZZIE" CLOUSTON is a warm and dedicated governess at Carnton Plantation. Her life changes in an instant when she's asked to be a surgeon's assistant following the aftermath of the Battle of Franklin. Though she quietly disagrees with the Southern Cause, she lovingly tends to the wounded soldiers in her care. One soldier in particular captures her attention even though she's pledged to another.

CAPTAIN ROLAND WARD JONES is a sharpshooter from Mississippi who's been badly wounded in battle. He is quite drawn to the beautiful and kind hearted governess and is grateful to her for keeping her promise to convince the surgeon to let him keep his leg. When he finds out about her promise to find the mother of a young soldier who died in her arms, he agrees to help in any way he can.

While the captain heals and hopes to regain the use of his legs, he and Lizzie become friends. It's clear that they're both attracted to each other, but too many obstacles stand in the way. For one, Lizzie is betrothed to her best friend from childhood, and two, Roland is a Confederate who owns slaves. Will Lizzie set aside her principles and promises to pursue romantic love or will she stand for what's right no matter what?

With This Pledge is the first full-length novel in the Carnton Novels collection. Tamera Alexander, best-selling author, weaves a compelling tale based on the real lives of Elizabeth Clouston and Captain Roland Ward Jones.

My Thoughts

With This Pledge is riveting and masterfully crafted! I felt like I was right within Carnton's walls experiencing the horrors of war. I wanted to be Lizzie Clouston assisting the surgeon and comforting soldiers in their time of greatest need. Through the pages, I felt the intense grief of a mother losing a son, or of a wife losing a husband. Even though certain parts were very sad, the hope and joy woven throughout brought smiles to my face.

My heart ached for Lizzie and the choices she had to make. My heart ached for families who lost loved ones and for slaves who hoped for freedom. It's even more heartbreaking knowing that so much of the story is based on true events and characters in our country's history. I was emotionally engaged from the first page until the last. Even though I read lots of Christian fiction, I won't be forgetting this story any time soon. The story came alive even more after I read about the history and saw photographs of some of the characters on the author's website.

I enjoy reading Tamera Alexander's books! In fact, I'm pretty sure I've read all except for two. After reading this novel, I'm for sure checking out the two I have yet to read. And then I will have to try and wait patiently for the next installment in the Carnton series. ;)

If you're a fan of Tamera Alexander or historical romance in general, you'll want to read this book! Be sure to keep some tissues handy.

Book Rating: 5 stars

Purchase the book here.


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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this ebook free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

God Bless You & Good Night by Hannah C. Hall {Book Review}

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God Bless You & Good Night (Touch and Feel)
Written by Hannah C. Hall
Illustrated by Steve Whitlow

Synopsis

Cute and cuddly animal families prepare for bedtime. Parents help their little ones feel safe and loved as they go about their nighttime routines.

About the Book

This beautiful, touch-and-feel board book opens and closes with a simple statement, "God bless you and good night."  

Tucked in between, animals are doing all the things that kids do to get ready for bed: eating a quick snack, taking a bath, putting on pajamas, reading books, saying prayers, and snuggling with loved ones.

Kids will love hearing the rhythm and rhyme of playful words and touching the different surfaces on each two-page spread. Little fingertips will delight in exploring textures such as soft fur, smooth skin, glittery snow, and rough sand.

Best of all, the bedtime story will help children to remember to thank God for the day.

My Thoughts

So simple. So sweet. God Bless You & Good Night is my favorite kind of book to read to little ones. I absolutely love the illustration style. I like the adorable-looking animals and soft, rich hues of the animals' environments. Very endearing.

Text is easy and fun to read. I love rhyme when it's done well! The story isn't too short or too long - only 18 pages. Perfect for a quick yet meaningful read. 

I like how a few words or phrases on each page are printed in a different font and color. Words like tummy and yummy and phrases like scrub-a-dub and oh-so-sweet really stand out from the rest of the text. Adds to the playful mood of the story.

In my experience, toddlers seem to love being able to interact with books they read. The touch-and-feel element makes this book an excellent bedtime story choice! 

Book Rating: 5 stars.

Purchase the book here.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Dayspring Inspirational Farmhouse Faith Decor Sale - 50% Off

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Dayspring has a great sale going on right now! If you love farmhouse style decor, you'll want to take advantage of this 1/2 off sale on select items. Below is just a sample of what's on sale. :) 

And don't forget about FREE shipping on orders $50 or more.

Happy shopping! Sale ends on October 22, 2018.

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Enjoy Up To 50% Off Select Home Decor Items! Shop Now!

Freedom's Light by Colleen Coble {Book Review}

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Keeping the light for sailors 

is her contribution to the War of Independence.

One death and one dark night 

will change the course of her life forever.

HANNAH THOMAS never thought she'd find herself tending twin lighthouses all alone on a Massachusetts' coastline. Widowed shortly after her husband joins the Continental Army, she ends up lonely for company and vulnerable to a man she fears.

To assuage her loneliness, Hannah sends for her younger sister, Lydia. Hannah quickly realizes that she may have been better off alone since her sister is fiercely devoted to England and wildly obsessed with with Galen Wright, the man she wishes to never see again.

Will Lydia's foolish ways lead to humiliation and devastation or healing and restoration?

BIRCH MEREDITH crashes his ship on the rocky shoreline when Hannah purposely fails to light the lighthouses due to a rumored attack. Though a Tory, Hannah still saves him and keeps him in her home while his wounds heal. His mind set on seeking revenge for the murder of his younger brother, Birch wants nothing to do with the God Hannah loves. Yet, he can't deny the attraction he feels toward the radiant woman who glows as bright as the light she tends.

Hannah enjoys the camaraderie she shares with Birch. However, she knows she must keep herself from falling for a man with a heart that's as hard as the rocks that destroyed his ship. Determined to stand strong and weather the storms of life that come her way, Hannah can't help but hold out hope that maybe someday she and Birch can have a future together.

Is it possible that a handsome sea captain isn't all that he seems? Will he ever conquer the waves of vengeance that have flooded his heart and soul?

My Thoughts

Because I read so many Christian fiction books, I rarely remember individual titles. Several have stuck out over the years, though, and 2 of them have been Colleen Coble books: Abomination and Butterfly Palace. When I see new books by this author, I usually want to read them, especially if they're historical fiction. 

Coble fills her pages with suspense and isn't afraid to make her protagonists suffer. And according to Gail Carson Levine in her book, Writing Magic, " . . . it takes a mean author to write a good story."

I wanted to keep reading Freedom's Light to find out if Hannah turned out okay. To find out if her light still shone at the end of the book. So much so that I stopped highlighting and taking notes to write a good review! 

I got busy turning pages instead of taking notes. I'm typically a fast reader, but I try to slow down for reviews. Sometimes that's just too difficult, especially when the book is more plot driven.

I'm drawn to lighthouses and stories about them. I like historical fiction and stories set during wartime. I like suspense, stories of faith, and clean romance. I like sad mixed with happy. Freedom's Light has all of the above, and I recommend this book if you like these things, too.

Book Rating:  5 stars

Purchase the book here.

Or here:

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this ebook free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

$10 DaySpring Coupon

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Hey everyone!

I just wanted to pass along this great coupon to DaySpring. No minimum purchase is required in order to use the coupon.

So, enjoy and start your Christmas shopping early! Click banner below to begin  . . .

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365 Devotions For A Thankful Heart {Book Review}

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The Devotional

A devotional can be such a great tool! While I don't think a devotional should take the place of reading Scripture in its original context, it is sometimes nice to ponder a particular verse with a corresponding story or exhortation.

365 Devotions For A Thankful Heart begins each day with a Bible verse, follows with a short devotion, and ends with a quick prayer. Written in a conversational style, the devotional is designed to encourage women to grow in gratitude and to cultivate a heart of thankfulness.

Scripture quotations are taken from the New King James version unless otherwise noted. Other versions used are the ESV, King James, NASB, NCV, NIV, New Living Translation, and The Message.

Most devotions refer to characters and events straight from the Bible. Sometimes they reference historical figures like Augustine and George Muller, or fictional characters like Snow White and Winnie the Pooh. They also reference things that make up typical, everyday life that most women can relate to.

Quotes from notable people pepper the pages throughout this devotional. Some I'm familiar with such as John Piper, Tim Keller, Nancy Leigh Demoss, Martin Luther, Billy Graham, John MacArthur, Nick Vujicic, C.S. Lewis, Abraham Lincoln, Dr. Charles Stanley, A.W. Tozer, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, and more.

Some I'm not so familiar with such as Leeana Tankersley, Christine Caine, Olin Miller, John Wooden, Bob Goff, Elie Wiesel, and a few others, too.

Devotions are short but packed with thought-provoking truth to ponder throughout the day. They truly inspire and spur women to praise and give thanks to God.


My Thoughts


Whew! Reading 365 devotions in just a few weeks was a little overwhelming, but, overall, I  enjoyed 365 Devotions For A Thankful Heart.

It is designed as a quality hardback with sturdy, glossy pages. And the cover is delightful like spring - fresh colors and bright flowers! The title is printed in a shiny silver font, which is pretty but unfortunately scratches easily. Mine has a distressed look to it now. Not that big of a deal, though.

The daily readings really are short. I timed myself one day, and it took me 1 minute and 4 seconds to read the entire devotion. I found myself wishing I had time to think more deeply about each one. They're relevant, truth-telling, and life-giving.

A few of my favorites are:

• January 10 ~ New Life
• January 28 ~ Being Like Mary and Martha
• February 11 ~ Please and Thank You
• April 2 ~ Serving with Love
• April 20 ~ Our Unchanging Lord
• May 21 ~ Multitasking . . . Your Faith?
• June 29 ~ Learning to Be Content
• July 31 ~ You're Not Big Enough
• August 16 ~ No What-Ifs
• October 8 ~ Beauty in the Darkness
• November 15 ~ Wait
• December 2 ~ Subtle Ingratitude

While the general theme is women developing thankful hearts, I think the devotional does a good job keeping God the focus. It's always better when God, not me, is front and center! He's the one working in us, and we owe our praise and thanks to Him no matter what.

I typically read the Bible in the NIV or ESV versions. I'm sure other versions are just as great, but from my understanding of The Message Bible, it's not a true translation. I thinks it's considered a paraphrase of a translation, so if it were up to me, I personally wouldn't use it in a devotional as a Scripture reference. I'd probably treat quotes from it like I'd treat quotes from other Christians. But not as God's word. I didn't count, but only a few Scripture quotations are taken from The Message. Anyway, just my personal preference on that.

Since I read all 365 devotions, I feel comfortable recommending this beautiful devotional to help train your heart to be thankful. It would surely make a nice gift for the women in your life.

Book Rating:  4.5 stars

Purchase the book here.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

He Speaks to Me: Preparing to Hear From God {Book Review}

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xxx

 

Longing to Hear God's Voice

Have you ever been desperate to hear from God?

Do you long to be a sheep who hears her Shepherd's voice?

Of course we can pick up our Bibles any time we want and "hear" what God has to say to us. And it's absolutely wonderful. We can "hear" on a daily basis how he loves us, how we can love Him, and how we can love others.

But sometimes I long for more. Do you?

Christian Fiction Book List

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 Books are my TV.

To take a break during the day or to unwind at night, I love traveling back in time by book to when women wore dresses instead of tank tops and characters rode in carriages instead of cars. Curling up with a lighthearted story is the perfect way to end the day and help my busy mind release the cares of the world. It's a nightly routine, actually, and I truly don't know what to do with myself when I run out of books!

 I hate to admit it, but in my high school days, I started reading historical romance novels. Secular ones. :( Thankfully, I was still a teenager when I was introduced to my first Christian historical fiction romance novel. I don't even remember how I came across it, but I've never looked back.

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Photo Gift Idea for a Sponsored Child

I don't know about you, but sometimes I can run out of things to say or pictures to include when writing my family's sponsored child. So, I love fresh, new ideas every now and then.

With all the lovely, trendy wall art out there featuring states, countries, maps, etc., I came up with the idea to create something similar to send to our sponsored child who lives in Kenya. I'm most familiar with using PicMonkey, so that's the avenue I chose to make the photo gift featuring Kenya, our child's home country, and Arizona, my family's home state.

Literacy Musing Mondays April 17-22 {Choosing to SEE}

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Welcome to Literacy Musing Mondays April 17-22!

I hope you all had a wonderful Easter celebration yesterday. :)

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