About Me I am a retired librarian and I now support books and authors through my reviews.

I have always loved to read and I was able to share that love through my work as a public librarian for 22 1/2 years. I now promote literacy by reading, and then writing reviews. I love to support authors by sharing my reviews with others!

Wednesday, September 30, 2020

An Amish Singing: Four Stories by Amy Clipston

An Amish Singing: Four StoriesABOUT THE BOOK

Romance is bound strike a chord when the young people of Bird-in-Hand join together to bring their community the gift of song. 

Hymn of Praise

Sharon Lambert and Jay Smoker have been friends for a long time, but lately Jay has seen Sharon in a new light. They begin spending time together, and Sharon invites Jay to her family’s home to serve dinner and sing traditional hymns for their English guests. When Jay decides that this tramples upon his doctrinal beliefs, can these two dear friends compromise and find love? Or will Jay’s strict views keep them apart? 

Amazing Grace

Dave Esh is broken with guilt after a recent tragedy. When Alice Blank, an acquaintance from school and youth group, invites him to join an informal singing group that performs for community members in need, Dave doubts he will enjoy himself—let alone find peace. Will Alice’s friendship help Dave learn how to forgive himself the way God already has? 

Great Is Thy Faithfulness

Darlene Bender’s mother has been battling cancer, and Darlene can’t understand why God would allow someone so wonderful to go through such a terrible time. She finds strength in her singing group and friends, and when Andrew Detweiler senses that Darlene needs a confidant, he approaches and befriends her. As love blossoms between them, Darlene might soon realize that God was with her all along. 

O Holy Night

Elaine Lantz and her parents have just moved to town from New Wilmington. After leaving behind some painful events and a group of deceitful friends, Elaine worries she’ll never be able to trust again. But the young people of Bird-in-Hand don’t give up, and Calvin King takes it upon himself to make Elaine feel welcome. Perhaps friendship and love await Elaine in her new hometown. 

“Well-written, well-developed, and beautifully romantic, Amy’s books are at the top of the Amish genre.” —New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray 


MY THOUGHTS.....

An Amish Singing is a collection of four stories that all have the same theme: young Amish friends gathering together regularly to enjoy each other's company and sharing their love of music with others. Each story highlights one of Amy Clipston's favorite hymns as its basis and the emotions found in these stories resonate with all of us: pain, grief, fear, and guilt; feeling unworthy and unloved; learning to trust, and finally, the overwhelming joy that comes from forgiveness.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow once said that music is the universal language and I believe this is especially true with religious hymns and gospel music. An Amish Singing is a beautiful acknowledgement of the power of sacred music in our lives and Clipston once again showcases her wonderful writing talent! I recommend this book to all who enjoy Amish fiction and Christian romance.

I received a copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation to write a positive review. These are my own thoughts. 

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Amy Clipston is 
an author of Amish and Christian fiction with HarperCollins Christian Publishing. Most of her books focus on the Amish community, faith, and love but she also writes romance novels and young adult inspirational stories.

For more information, visit her    Website                                              Facebook               Twitter              Instagram

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Wish Upon a Star by Tabitha Bouldin: Review & Giveaway with Celebrate Lit

 

About the Book

Book:  Wish Upon A Star

Author: Tabitha Bouldin

Genre:  Holiday Fiction

Release Date: December 1, 2018

Bryce Masters had everything he needed…or so he thought. His six-year-old daughter, Anna, would disagree. They were going home, moving back to Jingle Junction where Bryce would take over the local bookstore just in time for Christmas. Losing his wife, Molly, during the birth of their daughter six years ago was tragic, but Bryce has no idea just how much it weighs on young Anna’s heart until she confesses her deepest wish. What Anna wants for Christmas is a mother, but Bryce’s heart is not ready to love again. Only God can give Bryce the desire to make Anna’s wish come true. Only He can heal the hurt and open Bryce’s heart to the power of love. But Bryce will have to be willing to listen. And when the perfect woman reveals a secret that could devastate them all, will Bryce be able to look beyond what was and accept what might be?

 Click here to get your copy!

 MY THOUGHTS.....


This is a delightful story that has an adorable little girl and a father who would do anything for her, except...grant her the one thing that she wants for Christmas. Bryce Masters has already loved and lost the love of his life, and as much as he adores his daughter Anna, he cannot give her a mother for Christmas!

'Short and sweet' perfectly describes this novella and everything in it shouts Christmas. A town called Jingle Junction, thousands of lights to brighten the landscape, a huge tree in the center of town that is the focal point during the season, sleigh rides, ice skating, and a gingerbread competition! But most of all, a little girl's wish that seems impossible unless a miracle can happen!

"How do you even fall in love with someone in one week? Only with God's help, that's how."

Author Tabitha Bouldin completely Bryce's anguish and confusion . How can he help Anna's wish come true when his heart can't love again? If you enjoy Christmas stories filled with hope, faith, and the message of Christmas, you will want to read Wish Upon a Star.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Celebrate Lit. A positive review was not required. These are my own thoughts.


My rating: 4 of 5 stars

About the Author

Tabitha Bouldin has a Bachelor’s in creative writing from Southern New Hampshire University, where she graduated with honors. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and has been published with Chicken Soup for the Soul. When she’s not homeschooling her kids, you’ll find her curled up with a book. Tabitha’s genre of choice is Contemporary Christian Romance which she describes as: Adventure with heart.

 

More from Tabitha

Wish Upon a Star owes its existence to Hallmark’s Christmas movies. I could, and often do, watch their Christmas movies all through the year. Doesn’t matter how cheesy the storyline, I love them all. While I wanted to bring that sense of fun and feel-good romance, I needed a little oomph. So, I took some inspiration from “The Christmas Shoes” by NewSong. For the record, I love Hallmark and NewSong equally, so putting the two together was a natural fit.

The intention wasn’t to make a sad Christmas story, but there’s some pain Bryce has to manage while learning to love again. The best things come from overcoming that thing you never thought you could do. When you press on, with God’s guidance and with His approval, anything is possible. Bryce needs this reminder that even in the darkest nights, God is there.

Wish is part of the funky town I created and dubbed Jingle Junction, a place where it’s all Christmas all the time. Jingle Junction has only a few rules. First off, you can have any business you want, as long as the business name is an alliteration. Second, community is the name of the game. When someone’s in need, everyone pitches in to help.

For this story, I wanted to highlight homecoming. To do that, I needed Bryce to have a reason to come back to Jingle Junction. That’s where the song came in. If you don’t know the song, it’s about a little boy who wants only one thing for Christmas, and that’s a pair of shoes for his dying mother. I listen to “The Christmas Shoes” at least a dozen times a year. It’s heartbreaking but wonderful. It has that bit of hope I needed for Wish. For my story, Bryce’s daughter, Anna, lost her mother when she was born. The only thing she wants is the one thing she’s never had: a mother. It’s also the one thing Bryce cannot give.

The plan had always been to return to Jingle Junction. Bryce wants to raise Anna in the hometown where he was born, and he’s finally gotten the opportunity to make good on the plans he and his wife made when they first learned of her pregnancy. It took him six years to make good on his promise, and he’s not sure he’s made the right decision.

Wish Upon a Star is one of those books where I wanted to challenge myself by writing only from the male point of view. Although I always write alternating point of view in my romances, Wish has always been Bryce’s story. A story of coming home.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 24

deb’s Book Review, September 24

Texas Book-aholic, September 25

Inklings and notions, September 26

21st Century Keeper at Home, September 26

For Him and My Family, September 27

CarpeDiem, September 27

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 28

Older & Smarter?, September 29

lakesidelivingsite, September 29

Artistic Nobody, September 30 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

Batya’s Bits, September 30

Ashley’s Bookshelf, October 1

Emily Yager, October 1

She Lives To Read, October 2

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 3

Pause for Tales, October 3

Sara Jane Jacobs, October 4

Connect in Fiction, October 4

Spoken from the Heart, October 5

Just Your Average reviews, October 5

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, October 6

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 6

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Tabitha is giving away the grand prize package a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/10114/wish-upon-a-star-celebration-tour-giveaway

View all my reviews

Monday, September 28, 2020

The Simple Life by Wanda E. Brunstetter

The Simple Life
ABOUT THE BOOK

Millions visit "Amish country" each year to enjoy the relaxed family atmosphere of this unique culture. What can we as "English" (non-Amish) people learn from this lifestyle? Wanda Brunstetter, author of the best-selling Amish-themed novel The Storekeeper's Daughter, offers sixty intriguing and encouraging lessons in her new devotional The Simple Life. Each reading features a brief story of the Amish, providing a "behind the scenes" insight into their culture; a spiritual lesson, accompanied by scripture, drawn from the story; and a "bonus" of an Amish witticism or recipe. Now readers can enjoy the peace and quiet of Amish country anytime, anywhere.

MY THOUGHTS.....

Wanda E. Brunstetter states, in the introduction of this book, that she wanted to give readers a glimpse of the Amish culture and allow them a chance to experience the joy and peace that comes from living a simple life. Well, she's certainly succeeded...the sixty devotionals in this book definitely show the benefits of living such a life!

Brunstetter is a favorite author of Amish fiction fans but her non-fiction books are popular also. The Simple Life is a wonderful devotional filled with delicious recipes, Amish sayings, and funny anecdotes that inspire and entertain and it's written so that each of the devotionals follow the same format: a beginning Bible scripture, a short story/essay, Food for Thought, and Food for the Body. My budget doesn't allow me to purchase every book that I want but I did buy this as a digital copy and I recommend it to all who enjoy devotionals and recipe collections! 


My rating: 4 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

New York Times bestselling and award-winning author, Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She has written close to 90 books translated in four languages. With over 10 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nations most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards.

To learn more about Wanda, visit her website  Facebook  Twitter  Pinterest

Sunday, September 27, 2020

An Amish Husband for Tillie ((Amish of Pontotoc #4) by Amy Lillard

An Amish Husband for Tillie (Amish of Pontotoc #4)ABOUT THE BOOK

For the Amish of Pontotoc, Mississippi, all roads lead to faith, family, and tradition, even when the path is unconventional—especially at Christmas . . .
 
Tillie Gingerich is so in love with Melvin Yoder that she agrees to leave her conservative Amish home to live with him in the English world. But when the struggle to make ends meet leads to conflict, and reveals troubling weaknesses in their relationship, Tillie returns to Pontotoc—pregnant and unmarried. Her loving family accepts her, but to convince the rest of the community, they must turn to the bishop. Distraught, Tillie runs away on Christmas Eve—only to get as far as an isolated house on the edge of town.
 
Levi Yoder, Melvin’s upright distant cousin, is grieving the loss of his wife and wants to be alone. He is hardly pleased to open his door and find a pregnant woman––a painful reminder of all he’s lost. But with an ice storm approaching, he can’t turn Tillie away. Yet as morning nears, the miracle of Christmas brings unexpected challenges, opportunities—and promises for
the future . . .

MY THOUGHTS.....

"All she wanted was to return home, be among her family, and spend Christmas in their loving embrace."

A young unmarried woman hoping to spend Christmas with her Amish family, but afraid for them to see that she is pregnant. A young Amish man who dreads Christmas because he has just lost his wife and unborn baby. An Amish family who may have to turn their daughter away because of the rules of their Amish church. How can there possibly be a joyous Christmas in Pontotoc, Michigan? 


Author Amy Lillard poignantly shares Tillie Gingerich's fears and uncertainties as she returns home, unmarried and expecting a child, after living as an Englisher with her ex-Amish boyfriend. Her realistic portrayal of Levi Yoder's overwhelming grief over the loss of his wife and child and his desire to avoid the holidays is one that many of us can relate to. I could totally imagine both of these character's struggles and then, in an unexpected occurrence, Levi is shown that life does go on and Tillie is given a glimpse of a future that she never dreamed possible. Will Tillie's church forgive her transgressions and will Melvin, her baby's father, return to the Amish way of life?

An Amish Husband for Tillie is an enjoyable story filled with a variety of emotions and several surprising twists but readers are reminded that hope is ever present, forgiveness is always possible, and everyone deserves a second chance. This book offers inspiration and encouragement and I recommend it to all who enjoy holiday stories and Amish Christian fiction.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. There was no obligation to post a positive review. These are my own thoughts. 

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Amy Lillard is a 2013 Carol award-winning author who loves reading romance novels from contemporary to Amish. She was born and raised in Mississippi, but now lives in Oklahoma with her husband and their teenage son.  

Learn more about Amy at her Website     

Facebook     Twitter     Instagram     BookBub     Goodreads


View all my reviews

Saturday, September 26, 2020

Scrumptious Independence by Melissa Wardwell: Review & Giveaway with Celebrate Lit

 

                           About the Book


“Taste and see that the Lord is good.”

And so is Beth’s cooking! It’s a good thing, too. After a lifetime of her family’s smothering embrace, a whole new world opens to her with the passing of her beloved grandmother.

Armed with an inheritance she never expected and orders on how to use it, Beth sets off for Merriweather Island and fulfillment of a lifetime of dreams.

Or so she hopes.

What she didn’t hope for was what most women would—a man who fills her thoughts at the most wonderfully unwelcome times. She doesn’t have time or space for a relationship, but how do you tell love to just go away?

Of course, starting over in a new place is never easy, especially as an outsider in a small community. Add to that a mayor who has her dander up and a woman bound to make her life miserable, is it any wonder that Beth begins to doubt God’s and Gram’s plans?

With her heart betraying her resolve and challenges to her faith, Beth finds it takes bravery she didn’t know she had to discover just how scrumptious independence can be.

This “Merriweather book” is the second in a new series featuring five islands, six authors, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.

The Independence Island Series: beach reads aren’t just for summer anymore.

Click here to purchase your copy!

MY THOUGHTS.....

"I came down here to find my own way in life and instead I found my faith in humankind and in God while in your care."

This is such a sweet love story and it isn't just a romantic love story. Elizabeth "Beth" Stevens and her grandmother shared a very special bond and Elizabeth Merriweather-Lewis recognized a potential in Beth that her family had never seen. As she sets out to fulfill her late grandmother's last wishes, Beth learns that she can stand on her own and she gains a confidence that she has never known before. Leaving her very critical mother and moving to Merriweather Island offers Beth independence and the chance to create a new existence. It also allows her to reconnect with a friend from her past. Could this friendship turn into something more?

Scrumptious Independence has so many things that I enjoy in a story: great characters, a beautiful setting, family drama, mystery, and intrigue. There is also a sweet romance but I was especially touched by Beth and Gram's remembered conversations that are sprinkled throughout. Author Melissa Wardwell has beautifully captured the special love and wisdom that only grandparents can offer and I was reminded of the special bond that I enjoyed with my own grandmother.

If you enjoy contemporary romance with an inspiring message of hope and faith, you will certainly appreciate Scrumptious Independence, the second book in the Independence Island series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Celebrate Lit. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own opinions.


My rating: 4 of 5 stars


About the Author

Melissa Wardwell resides in Owosso, Michigan with her husband Jonathan, three children, a cat, and two pitbulls.

Besides writing, she enjoys reading, having coffee with friends, and spending quality time with her husband kayaking and fishing.

Melissa likes to joke about the voices in her head, but it is those voices have inspired her to write several romance novels such as “I Know the Plans” (a story based in her hometown of Owosso) and “Finding Hope in Savannah”. When she is not penning works of fiction, she is busy reviewing books on her blog, Back Porch Reads.

To see more from Melissa Wardwell, visit www.melissawardwell.com

 

More from Melissa

“Lord, I don’t know how I can keep doing this.”

That was my prayer one evening in 2019 as I made my way to praise practice. I knew that writing was something God had called me to (because He never seems to call you to do something you enjoy) but the finances were just not there to publish another book. I felt lost in the uncertainty of the path moving forward and I needed a light. I had just shared all my concerns with my parents and left with my dad’s words ringing in my head. Are you writing to gain notoriety or are you writing for God?

The next morning, CelebrateLit had a post looking for submissions for a new and innovative series. Hope burst within me and I know I needed more information. I followed instructions and spoke with Sandy Barela and Chautona Havig. The more I was told, the more excited I became because I knew I needed to be part of this collection.

Ideas were hatched, characters began to talk, and a book proposal was sent. I continued to work on the development of characters and the mobile business knowing in my heart that God had given me this opportunity. I wouldn’t do things halfway. And when the confirmation email came, I was ready to share the beautiful story and characters that developed.

Beth is a food truck proprietor, so that means she spends most of her time cooking. In an effort to grow her recipes, I have been making videos of me cooking some of our family’s favorites as well as raiding my mom’s recipe box. The result is some amazing food to share.

Every book, pre-order card, and my YouTube channel has recipes on it. And so will this tour.

With it being summertime, our family doesn’t want those heavy meals so sometimes chips and sandwiches are all we need in the evenings. One favorite is my chicken salad.

Now, this recipe is easily substituted with other things like however, you like your chicken.



Melissa's Chicken Salad

Feeds 4 (unless you have big eaters.)

2 cans of chicken (you can use cooked but this is quick and easy

1/2 cup of red grapes – halved

1/2 cup celery – diced

Make sure you rinse all of this well as you prep the salad

Dressing

1 1/2 cup of miracle whip (you can use mayo)

1/2 tsp mustard powder

1 tbsp white vinegar

1 tsp of sugar

Mix everything together and serve on your favorite bread option or on a bed of lettuce. I like mine in a pita pocket or on lettuce. This time it was with a pita pocket with a side of lightly salted chips and a pickle.

Now, just a little side note, you can add what ever veggie or fruit you like. Apples and cucumbers would be a great addition as well. So, don’t feel like you have to do things exactly like I do. Make it your own.

 Bon appétit

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 21

Soulfully Romantic, September 21

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, September 21

Sara Jane Jacobs, September 21

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 22

Texas Book-aholic, September 22

Inklings and notions, September 22

For Him and My Family, September 23

deb’s Book Review, September 23

Artistic Nobody, September 23 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

She Lives To Read, September 24

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, September 24

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 24

Ashley’s Bookshelf, September 24

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 25

Quiet Workings, September 25

21st Century Keeper at Home, September 25

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , September 26

Older & Smarter?, September 26

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 26

Blogging With Carol, September 27

Mypreciousbitsandmusings, September 27

Batya’s Bits, September 27

Emily Yager, September 28

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, September 28

Stories By Gina, September 28

Reviewingbooksplusmore, September 28

CarpeDiem, September 29

Christian Bookaholic, September 29

Cultivating Us, September 29

Aryn the Libraryan, September 30

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, September 30

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 30

Connect in Fiction, October 1

The Collaborative Press, October 1

Livin’ Lit, October 1

Simple Harvest Reads, October 2 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

The Meaderings of a Bookworm, October 2

Godly Book Reviews, October 2

Joanne Markey, October 3

Captive Dreams Window, October 3

Vicky Sluiter, October 3

Blossoms and Blessings, October 4

Splashes of Joy, October 4

Pause for Tales, October 4

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Melissa is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/10105/scrumptious-independence-celebration-tour-giveaway

View all my reviews

Friday, September 25, 2020

The Edge of Belonging by Amanda Cox

The Edge of BelongingABOUT THE BOOK

When Ivy Rose returns to her hometown to oversee her late grandmother's estate sale, she soon discovers that the woman left behind more than trinkets and photo frames--she provided a path to the truth behind Ivy's adoption. Shocked, Ivy seeks clues to her past, but a key piece to the mystery is missing.


Twenty-four years earlier, Harvey James finds an abandoned newborn who gives him a sense of human connection for the first time in his life. His desire to care for the baby runs up against the stark fact that he is homeless. When he becomes entwined with two people seeking to help him find his way, Harvey knows he must keep the baby a secret or risk losing the only person he's ever loved.

In this dual-timeline story from debut novelist Amanda Cox, the truth--both the search for it and the desire to keep it from others--takes center stage as Ivy and Harvey grapple with love, loss, and letting go.

Revell Publishing September 2020
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover and audiobook:


MY THOUGHTS.....

As I read this book, I was amazed that a debut novel could touch me so deeply. From the first paragraph, when I met Harvey James for the first time, until the closing lines, I was mesmerized by this story. The Edge of Belonging is told in dual-time, alternating between 1994 and the present, but these times blend together so that I felt like I was seeing a movie unfold. Harvey James, who felt like he had never belonged, grabbed my heart when he found a newborn baby abandoned in weeds along a busy highway and decided that this baby would be treasured as he himself had never been. Move to present day and the story focuses on counselor Ivy Rose and newly discovered secrets of her past that will forever alter her future.

Author Amanda Cox has created a cast of remarkable characters, including Harvey, Ivy, Pearl, Rose, and Reese and she tells their stories with memorable words that often made me cry.

"Those people in children's services, they try to do a good job. But it's not the same as being loved by a mom and dad. It's not love when you can be given back when it gets tough."

"Above all, Christ called her his and was gracious enough to give her people to remind her if she lost her way."

"I think...I still can't believe I get to watch this beautiful life of yours unfold."


Cox tackles some heavy topics, such as abandonment, abuse, addiction, and depression but she buffers them with love, hope, and the realization that a family unit can be created by more than blood ties. She also shows that there is mercy and grace through the power of God's love.

If you enjoy contemporary Christian fiction, you absolutely need to read this book. I predict that Amanda Cox and The Edge of Belonging will be mentioned quite often in the months ahead and I wish that I could give it more than 5 Stars!

I received a copy of this book from Revell. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Amanda Cox is a blogger and a curriculum developer for a national nonprofit youth leadership organization, but her first love is communicating through story. She holds a bachelor's degree in Bible and theology and a master's degree in professional counseling. Her studies and her interactions with hurting families over a decade have allowed her to create multidimensional characters that connect emotionally with readers.

Learn more at her Website     Facebook      Twitter      Instagram '

Thursday, September 24, 2020

Something Worth Doing by Jane Kirkpatrick

Something Worth Doing
ABOUT THE BOOK


























In 1853, Abigail Scott was a 19-year-old school teacher in Oregon Territory when she married Ben Duniway. Marriage meant giving up on teaching, but Abigail always believed she was meant to be more than a good wife and mother. When financial mistakes and an injury force Ben to stop working, Abigail becomes the primary breadwinner for her growing family. What she sees as a working woman appalls her, and she devotes her life to fighting for the rights of women, including their right to vote.

Following Abigail as she bears six children, runs a millinery and a private school, helps on the farm, writes novels, gives speeches, and eventually runs a newspaper supporting women's suffrage, Something Worth Doing explores issues that will resonate strongly with modern women: the pull between career and family, finding one's place in the public sphere, and dealing with frustrations and prejudices women encounter when they compete in male-dominated spaces. Based on a true story of a pioneer for women's rights from award-winning author Jane Kirkpatrick will inspire you to believe that some things are worth doing--even when the cost is great.
 

MY THOUGHTS.....

I find it very fitting that this book was published during the 100th year anniversary of 
the ratification of the 19th Amendment and I applaud author Jane Kirkpatrick for reminding us just how difficult the passage of this amendment truly was. One of the women who worked so vehemently is someone I'd never heard of and I found Abigail Scott's life story to be a remarkable journey of determination, persistence, and finally, success. Her life wasn't easy and she endured many heartaches and backsets along the way, but in the end, Abigail Scott Duniway lived to register to vote in Multnomah County, Oregon and she also served on a jury!

This story begins in 1852, when seventeen-year-old Abigail hears her brother proclaim that "You can't control anything, you females. Not a thing. Lucky for you us men protect you." What follows is the chronicle of her efforts to prove that women were very capable, they could take care of themselves, they deserved respect, and they needed the chance to voice their opinions. Women needed the right to vote!

There are several pages of author's notes that relate many of Abigail's accomplishments and Kirkpatrick has been able to incorporate these facts into an engaging and entertaining fictional story based on biographical facts. Abigail experienced the hardships of traveling the Oregon Trail in the mid 1800s and she entered the work force while while raising her small children. As she pursued her passion to advance the rights of all women, Abigail even worked as a novelist and a newspaper publisher so that she could make sure that the word was being spread. Yes, Abigail Scott Dunlevy was a true pioneer and she paved the way for those of us who have followed!

Kirkpatrick has once again proven her exceptional ability to find unique topics and then create stories that we all want to read. I recommend Something Worth Doing to all who enjoy Christian historical fiction. I give it 4.5 Stars!

I received a copy of this book from Revell. There was no obligation for a positive review, I am voluntarily sharing my own thoughts. 

My rating: 4.5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jane Kirkpatrick is a New York Times Bestselling author whose works have appeared in more than 50 national publications including The Oregonian, Private Pilot and Daily Guideposts. With more than 1.5 million books in print, her 30 novels and non-fiction titles draw readers from all ages and genders. Most are historical novels based on the lives of actual historical women often about ordinary women who lived extraordinary lives. Her works have won numerous national awards including the WILLA Literary Award, the Carol Award.

Learn more about Jane Kirkpatrick 

Website   Facebook    Twitter   Pinterest   Instagram