Tuesday, September 25, 2018

Sadie: An Amish Retelling of Snow White (An Amish Fairytale #3) by Sarah Price









Sarah Price delivers a delightful retelling of a beloved classic, featuring a young Amish woman who turns to faith as her guide even in the darkest times . . .
Sadie Whitaker is determined to be a good daughter, but her stepmother, Rachel, has made no secret of her overwhelming jealousy--or her desire to get Sadie out of her life. Rachel's latest plot involves marrying Sadie off to a widower in need of a mother for his unruly children--and she has convinced Sadie's beloved father to agree.

Left with no choice, Sadie flees her small Amish hometown of Echo Creek. Planning to hide in a nearby forest, she stumbles across a house that belongs to the seven Glick brothers. All outcasts from the Old Order community of Echo Creek, they generously agree to let her stay--and for the first time in ages, Sadie feels safe and needed, keeping house for them as any good Amish woman would do. Until, that is, the Glicks' handsome cousin comes to visit. For though he awakens her heart's desire, she can't risk revealing her true identity, until love and faith give her the courage to take a chance on happines.


Amazon


About The Author

Sarah Price







I’ve always wanted to be a writer, ever since I could read which was at a very, very young age. There is something magical about telling novels that immerse the readers in the characters and the stories. All of my novels, both the Amish romance and the women’s fiction, have pieces of me in them, some more than others. However, all of my novels are written with one major purpose in mind: to take the reader on a journey. A personal journey.


Follow her on social media:
Blog:http://www.sarahpriceauthor.com.
Facebook: http://facebook.com/fansofsarahprice.
Instagram: @SarahPriceAuthor
Twitter: @SarahPriceAuthr
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/SarahPrice



My Review





This is the third book in this series that I have read, and loved that there are some recurring characters, but each story can and does stand alone.
I kept wondering while I was reading this and was almost three fourths through when the dwarfs made their appearance, and loved how they were written in.
We all know the original Snow White, but this is the same, but so different with the Amish twist.
Living their faith, really comes into play here with the forgiveness, ultimate, and yet a sin is a sin.
This one was hard to put down once I began, and the pages were quickly flying.

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.



Gathering of Sisters: A Year with My Old Order Mennonite Family by Darla Weaver






Once a week Darla Weaver bundles her children into the buggy, hitches up her spirited mare, and drives six miles to the farm where she grew up. There she gathers with her four sisters and their children for a day with their mother. In Gathering of Sisters, Weaver writes about her horse-and-buggy Mennonite family and the weekly women's gatherings that keep them connected. On warm days, the children play and fish and build houses of hay in the barn. In the winter, everyone stays close to the woodstove, with puzzles and games and crocheting. No matter the weather, the Tuesday get-togethers of this Old Order Mennonite family keep them grounded and centered in their love for God and for each other.

The rest of the week is full of laundry, and errands, and work that never ends. But Tuesdays are about being sisters, daughters, and mothers.

Hear straight from Amish and Mennonite people themselves as they write about their daily lives and deeply rooted faith in the Plainspoken series from Herald Press. Each book includes "A Day in the Life of the Author" and the author's answers to FAQs about the Amish and Mennonites.


Amazon 


About The Author





Darla Weaver is a homemaker, gardener, writer, and Old Order Mennonite living in the hills of southern Ohio. Her first book, Many Lighted Windows, was published in 2016, and she has written for Family Life, Ladies Journal, Young Companion, and other magazines for Amish and Old Order Mennonite groups. Before her three children were born she also taught school. Her hobbies are gardening and writing.

My Review




What a heartwarming read, I wanted to join them, I could just picture the joy of going to Grandma’s on Tuesday, and sad if they had to miss.
The author has a way with words and they are so welcoming and loving, you wanted to join this family, and how they are all there for one another.
There are chuckles and tears here, and we get a real look into Old Order Mennonite life. There isn’t any fiction here, and when I finished I found myself wanting more!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Herald Press, and was not required to give a positive review. 

Premeditated Peppermint (Amish Candy Shop Mystery #3) by Amanda Flower






Someone’s sweet on revenge . . .

Christmas is Bailey King’s favorite time of year. For her first Yuletide in Harvest, Ohio, the former big-city chocolatier is recreating a cherished holiday treat: peppermint combined with molten white chocolate. But her sugar high plummets when her former boyfriend walks into the candy shop she now runs with her Amish grandmother. New York celebrity chef Eric Sharp and his TV crew have arrived to film an authentic Amish Christmas. Bailey’s not about to let her beloved town—and Swissmen Sweets—be turned into a sound bite. Unfortunately, she gets more publicity than she bargained for when Eric’s executive producer is found strangled to death—and Eric’s the prime suspect.

With Bailey’s sheriff deputy boyfriend out to prove Eric’s guilt, her bad-boy ex tries to sweet-talk her into helping him clear his name . . . and rekindle their romance to boost ratings for his show. Now, between a surplus of suspects and a victim who wasn’t who she seemed, Bailey’s edging dangerously close to a killer who isn’t looking to bring joy to the world—or to Bailey—this deadly Noel.


Amazon


About The Author





Amanda Flower, an Agatha Award-winning mystery author, started her writing career in elementary school when she read a story she wrote to her sixth grade class and had the class in stitches with her description of being stuck on the top of a Ferris wheel. She knew at that moment she’d found her calling of making people laugh with her words. Her debut mystery, Maid of Murder, was an Agatha Award Nominee for Best First Novel. Amanda is an adult services librarian for a public library near Cleveland. She also writes mysteries as USA Today bestselling author Isabella Alan.

Website


My Review





We are back in Ohio with Bailey King, and just in time for the Christmas Market, and helping in the family candy store.
Of course, as in the past two books there is a murder, and somehow our Bailey is in the middle of the investigation again, along with some other familiar characters, including our loveable pig Jethro.
Will this be the end of Bailey’s involvement in the family business, will she decide to go back to NYC now that Eric her former boyfriend has come back into her life?
This book is going to keep you guessing almost to the last page, and danger is ever present, will you be able to guess ahead of time as whom the culprit is? Enjoy this cozy Christmas mystery!

I received this book through Net Galley and the published Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.

The Amish Christmas Letters by Patricia Davids, Sarah Price, Jennifer Beckstrand






With Christmas around the corner, it’s time for Amish families to include holiday greetings in their circle letters, each writer adding to a growing collection as it travels on to the next. In this delightful trio of stories, three cousins scattered across the country share their blessings—and reveal news of romantic surprises . . .

To win a friendly annual competition, matchmaker Marybeth Martin must bring one more couple together by Christmas. Her only prospect is a man more interested in a nanny than a wife—until his little girl shows him the light. . . . Struggling farmer’s daughter Katie Mae Kauffman discovers that she and a local widower and father of four can harvest more crops—and profits—together than separately. But she’ll have to put pride aside to make room for unexpected love. . . . Corralling an unruly brood of seven is not babysitter Carolyn Yutzy’s first choice for celebrating the season—but the sparks between her and their unsentimental yet irresistible uncle may be a gift neither was counting on . . .

Now, one by one, each resourceful young woman will have a holiday to remember—and to write home about.


Amazon


About The Authors

Patricia Davids






I was born and raised in Northcentral Kansas. I'm a farmer's daughter, but I now make my home in the city of Wichita. I'm an RN. Neonatal nursing has been the main focus of my career. What can I say? I love babies. I was invited to the highschool graduation of a baby I took care of. Talk about making me feel old!

In June of 2011 I became a widow after my husband of 36 years and 11 months died from multiple brain tumors. It was a very sad time, but thanks to the three f's, my faith, my family and my friends, life is moving forward. I have four brothers, one daughter and two grandchildren who all work at making me feel loved.


Website

Sarah Price







I’ve always wanted to be a writer, ever since I could read which was at a very, very young age. There is something magical about telling novels that immerse the readers in the characters and the stories. All of my novels, both the Amish romance and the women’s fiction, have pieces of me in them, some more than others. However, all of my novels are written with one major purpose in mind: to take the reader on a journey. A personal journey.


Follow her on social media:
Blog:http://www.sarahpriceauthor.com.
Facebook: http://facebook.com/fansofsarahprice.
Instagram: @SarahPriceAuthor
Twitter: @SarahPriceAuthr
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/SarahPrice


Jennifer Beckstand




Jennifer Beckstrand is the RITA-nominated, award-winning Amish romance author of The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series and The Honeybee Sisters series for Kensington Books. Huckleberry Summer was nominated for the RT Book Reviews Reviewer’s Choice Award and the 2015 RITA® Award, and Huckleberry Hill won the 2014 LIME Award for Inspirational fiction. Both Huckleberry Hill and Huckleberry Christmas appeared in Examiner.com list of top ten inspirational books for 2014. Her much-anticipated Amish series.

Website  


My Review

What a great combination of Amish authors, and loved these novella, just the right length to pull me in, and keep my attention.
With a general theme and relationship between each of these authors tell their own story, and with enjoyable results.
What they have in common is a circle letter, before the phone was affordable families and friends used these, and I remember my Mother-In-Law looking for hers to come from her college friends.
By the time I finished this book I wanted to continue with these now mutual friends, and hope to reconnect with these characters in future books.
Of course, I wondered if Felty Jr with be with us again, miss my Annie Bananie.

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.



Monday, September 24, 2018

A Secret to Die For by Lisa Harris






Psychologist Grace Callahan has no idea that she has a secret--one worth killing for. But when she finds out one of her clients has been murdered, she quickly realizes that the computer security specialist wasn't simply suffering from paranoia.

Detective Nate Quinn has just been cleared for active duty after a bombing killed eighteen people, including his partner, and left him dealing with PTSD. His first case back on the job involves the murder of Stephen Shaw, and his only lead turns out to be an old friend, Grace Callahan--and her life is in grave danger. Someone believes Shaw gave his psychologist information before he died. Information they are willing to kill for.

With her signature pulse-pounding suspense, Lisa Harris takes readers deep into the heart of fear in this race against the clock.


Amazon


About The Author






Award-winning author of nineteen novels and novellas, Lisa Harris lives with her husband and their three children in Mozambique, Africa, where they work as missionaries.

When she’s not busy writing or home schooling, she loves traveling, cooking different ethnic foods, and photographing animals and birds in the African bush. Visit her website at www.lisaharriswrites.com and her blog at www.myblogintheheartofafrica.blogspot.



My Review

Once I turned the first page I was gone, be ready for a fast-paced action packed read. You will never see most of what happens coming, and yet it is one of those being at the right place at the right time happenings.
The author does a wonderful job of keeping your attention, from beginning to end, and the title sure pulled me in, and you will quickly know how the title applies, and when you learn what is happening it could be so true.
There is a bit of sweet romance, not knowing what you’re looking for, and maybe an end to life as we know it, yes this is just a few of the happenings in this book.

I received this book through Revell Publishing, and was not required to give a positive review. 

#FallingInLove – Author Aubrey Wynne – $25 Giveaway











Dante’s Gift by Aubrey Wynne
Kathleen James has put her practical side away for once and looks forward to the perfect romantic evening: an intimate dinner with the man of her dreams—and an engagement ring. She is not prepared to hear that he wants to bring his grandmother back from Italy to live with him.
Dominic Lawrence has planned this marriage proposal for six months. Nothing can go wrong—until his Nonna calls. Now he must interrupt the tenderest night of Katie’s life with the news that another woman will be under their roof.
When Antonia’s sister dies, she finds herself longing to be back in the states. A wartime bride from the ‘40s, she knows how precious love can be. Can her own story of an American soldier and a very special collie once again bring two hearts together at Christmas?



Get your copy for just 99 cents!
Add to your Goodreads Shelf














Excerpt Present day romance:
The scent of turkey met her at Dom’s front door. For a moment, apprehension swept through her at the thought of helping in the kitchen. Then a handsome man stood before her, and she couldn’t wipe the foolish smile off her face. Instead of saying something stupid, she held out the wine.
“In a holiday bag, no less,” Dom said, eyebrows raised. He stepped back to let her in, grabbed her hand, and spun her around to face him. “You look stunning.”
“I just thought that the burlap would give it extra protection if I dropped it, and they only seemed to have holiday wine bags in stock and—”
One finger covered her mouth. As his head slowly lowered, she could feel his breath on her face; heat raced through her core. By the time their lips touched, her legs had turned to jello; she clung to him for support.
Gently pushing her toward the wall, he pressed his length against her and whispered, “I need to make you mine, legally, before I lose all control. You have no idea the affect you have on me, do you?”
“I think that is the most romantic thing anyone has ever said to me,” she said breathless. “Kiss me like that again… please?”
“I’d be happy to oblige if you tell me that isn’t my grandmother standing in the doorway watching us.”
Katie looked over to see Antonia, a wide grin on her face, and quickly pushed on the hard chest that pinned her to the wall. She ran a hand through her hair as the blood rushed to her face.
“Oh Nico, such good Italian blood in you. And not even any mistletoe out yet.” Antonia wiped her hands on her apron and waved to the young couple. “Come now, we have work to do before we play.”
The two followed her in like reprimanded children who showed no remorse, holding hands and snickering. This is silly but it feels so good. Katie accepted the apron and as she pulled the straps behind her, strong hands covered hers.
“Let me,” he whispered in her ear. “I’m good at tying knots.”

Excerpt WWII romance:
The pilot with wheat-colored hair put his elbows on the counter and leaned toward her. “I could buy thirty loaves of bread at home for that much lettuce.”
“But you are not home, soldier. You are here, in Benevento, and a sticky bun is 100 lire.” She meant to be rude but his soft brown gaze made her heart race as if she’d just chased Dante across the field. His smile went to his eyes, adding crinkles to the corners, and made her own lips turn up. “The cost of supplies is very expensive these days, as you know.”
“So I’ve heard. Give me five,” he said with a wink. “Maybe I can sweet talk the captain into putting me back into a plane.”
“Save your money, Ken. Your ears obviously ain’t got any better in the last ten minutes,” he answered, rubber-necking over the counter. “Get a load of that landing gear.”
Dante growled again but this time showed sharp, white teeth. “I don’t think he likes you much, Bob.”
“Well I don’t care for him, neither. Give me two of those, and we’ll get out of your hair.”
The men paid for the rolls and walked outside. She headed into the kitchen when that quiet, deep voice stopped her. “I’d like to apologize for my friend. He’s not a bad Joe once you get to know him.”
“I don’t think I care to,” she said without turning around.
“It looks like I may be making regular trips through your town. Do you work here often?” His tone dripped like honey from a ladle and poured over her; she felt her body turn toward him even as her brain told her “no.”
“My family owns it. I am here every day.”
“So your father is Guido?” He had resumed his place at the counter, balanced on his elbows again, inviting her back without a word.
She found herself leaning on the counter from the other side. “How do you know my father?”
“The sign says Guido’s Café.”
She laughed. “Yes, it does. So you are no private eye, eh?”
He whistled then. “You’d make Betty Grable green with envy when you smile. It makes those blue eyes sparkle like a fresh-cut diamond. You should do that more often.”
Her eyes lowered, embarrassed at the compliment and the image of the American pinup girl in a bathing suit. “You should go catch up with your friends.”
“My name is Ken Lawrence,” he said and held out his hand.
“Antonia Capriotti,” she replied and took his hand. A tingle shot down her center and curled her toes. “It is nice to meet you.”








Winner of the Golden Quill, Aspen Gold, and Heart of Excellence,
Rone finalist for audio
Reviewers Top Pick by Books and Benches
“The ultimate Hallmark Channel romance, this is an excellent read for a bad day or a lazy afternoon.” – InD’Tale Magazine
“Truly romantic… a book that you will not be able to put down.” – Books Are Love
“Dante’s Gift is a wonderfully poignant holiday romantic tale that intertwines two love stories…” – Jersey Girl Book Review











Author Aubrey Wynne
Bestselling and award-winning author Aubrey Wynne resides in the Midwest with her
husband, dogs, horses, mule and barn cats. She is an elementary teacher by trade, champion of children and animals by conscience, and author by night. Obsessions include history, travel, trail riding and all things Christmas.
Her short stories, Merry Christmas, Henry and Pete’s Mighty Purty Privies have won
Readers Choice Awards. Dante’s Gift and Paper Love received the 2016 Golden Quill, Aspen Gold, Heart of Excellence and the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence.
In addition to her Chicago Christmas novellas, Aubrey will release two more Regency
romances in 2018. The Wicked Earls’ Club will release again in 2019. Wynne’s medieval
fantasy series launched in 2017 with Rolf’s Quest, winner of the NTRWA Great Expectations and Maggie finalist.





















Giveaway Details
Ends 10/12/18
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via Paypal or gift codes via Amazon.com. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
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Sunday, September 23, 2018

$100 Giveaway – Enter to win PayPal Cash or an Amazon Gift Code!





An amazing group of clean wholesome romance authors has joined together to bring you one great prize! Each of these authors writes clean wholesome romance that meets my definition of clean!
Just think how many books you could buy with $100! Or maybe you need a new Kindle! Or maybe you want to try Kindle Unlimited! So many possibilities!!
Please show these amazing authors some love! Visit their sites. Sign up for their newsletters. Download their books. Review their books. Follow them on Social Media. There are so many ways you can support them!




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Winning entry will be verified! Make sure you actually subscribe and confirm your entries so you don’t get disqualified. Please give these authors a chance. I personally subscribe to all these newsletters and have read books by most of these authors. Their newsletters aren’t spammy and often contain great ebook freebies, deals, and new releases. Most authors email out at most once a week so your inbox isn’t going to be overflowing if you subscribe to all of them!
If you already subscribe to an author’s newsletter you can, of course, claim the entry!

Giveaway Details
$100 Amazon Gift Code or $100 in Paypal Cash
Ends 10/28/18
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner may be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter, Amazon, Paypal or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. The giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader/Clean Wholesome Romance and sponsored by the participating authors. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Through the Valley (The Amish of Shepherd's Hill) by Patricia Johns

  Miri Schrock never expected to inherit anything after months of caring for Old Tom Yoder, so upon his passing, she's stunned to learn...