1 & 2 Thessalonians: Hope in the Midst of Trials by Tara-Leigh Cobble

ABOUT THE BOOK

The team behind the bestselling The Bible Recap takes your study of God's Word to the next level. Continuing with the books of 1 and 2 Thessalonians, The Bible Recap Knowing God Series dives deep into the transformative truths found in the New Testament.

Perfect for small groups or individual study, this comprehensive, 10-week Bible study explains and connects the story of Scripture in the books of 1 and 2 Thessalonians. Through daily readings, passage-by-passage teaching, thought-provoking questions, weekly challenges, Scripture memorization, and personal study segments, you will
· learn how to dig deep into God's Word
· discover the character of God revealed through the early church
· comprehend what pleases God, the second coming of Christ, and the hope of salvation
· apply these truths to your life

Unearthing the timeless wisdom woven into these letters, this study will help you more deeply understand God's holiness, let Christ rule in your life, and hold on to the hope of Christ's return.

MY THOUGHTS.....

HOPE. One of the most powerful emotions we can experience, and also one that may seem the easiest to lose! In this new 10-week bible study, Tara-Leigh Cobble offers hope in the midst of life's trials. She provides structure and guidance as she explores Paul's words to the church at Thessalonica, making it easy for both new believers and seasoned Christians to understand. Each week in this study features five days of daily Bible readings, scripture memorization, question prompts, and additional resources to increase comprehension. I especially like that it is a workbook, with spaces provided to record my thoughts!

1 & 2 Thessalonians: Hope in the Midst of Trials is part of The Bible Recap Knowing God series. I am using it for my personal devotion time, but it would also be great for group study. I recommend this wonderful resource for anyone who wants to increase their faith and prepare for the return of Christ.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my personal thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tara-Leigh Cobble spends her days helping people read, understand, and love the Bible! Those things include: hosting a daily podcast called The Bible Recap, leading D-Group International (an international network of Bible studies), speaking to audiences about God and His Word, writing books, leading trips to Israel, and hosting a daily radio show called The God Shot. 

She loves adventure, dabbling in flying trapeze, and thinking every meal tastes better when eaten outside. She lives alone in Dallas, Texas.

Learn more about Tara-Leigh Cobble at her Website

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When They Met Again (Letters from Lancaster County, #2) by Leslie Gould

ABOUT THE BOOK

It's love at first sight for Adam Slaybaugh, yet while Joanna Grebel finds him attractive and is intrigued when he declares his interest, she's less certain of the potential for a romantic future together. Instead, she proposes they be "just friends," but Adam's not willing to settle for anything less than a romantic relationship. In response, he leaves Lancaster County for Florida, and soon after, Joanna begins courting Jacob Byer--someone she deems a much more suitable match.

When Adam returns to Lancaster County years later to pursue a career in his grandparents' successful home renovation business, he finds Joanna suffering from a broken heart. Misunderstandings and matchmaking schemes begin a tender journey of healing and romance--but is Adam's love enough to finally win Joanna over?

Bestselling Amish romance author Leslie Gould pens a gently humorous and rich romance threaded with heart-deep characters and the traditions of simple Amish life.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Love at first sight? It's exciting if both people feel the same attraction, but this wasn't the case for Adam and Joanna. He loved her instantly, she believed friendship should come first, and Adam ended up going to Florida to nurse his broken heart. Would Joanna ever know what she had thrown away?

Adam is given a second chance with Joanna when he returns home to Lancaster County to help his grandparents. Her recent pain caused by another man may prevent Joanna from seeing just how special Adam is. I enjoyed the book discussions that became such an important part of their budding relationship. Perhaps friendship is the lasting foundation for true love!

When They Met Again is a sweet romance, but there's so much more! I loved the special friendship of the three grandmothers and the bishop's wife, along with the circle letters they shared. They weren't always what older Amish women are perceived to be, and it appeared that some may have really enjoyed their Rumspringa days! Were these fun friends the encouragement Adam needed to pursue Joanna this second time?

Leslie Gould says that the classic movie When Harry Met Sally inspired this novel. Never fear, this clean romance is perfect for fans of Amish fiction!

I received a complimentary copy from the author and Bethany House. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Leslie Gould is the #1 bestselling and award-winning author of forty-eight novels, including the Amish Memories series and the Plain Patterns series. She’s sold 800,000 books over the last two decades. She holds a bachelor’s degree in history and communications and an MFA in creative writing. Leslie enjoys research trips, church history, and hiking, especially in the beautiful state of Oregon where she lives. She and her husband, Peter, have four adult children and two grandchildren.

Learn more by visiting Leslie's    Website  

Facebook     Twitter    Instagram

LETTERS FROM LANCASTER COUNTY

The Shop Down the Lane

When They Met Again

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The Lumber Baron's Wife by Lynn Austin

ABOUT THE BOOK

When the young wife of a powerful lumber baron vanishes into the wilds of frontier Michigan, her friend is left to unravel the truth in this captivating dual-timeline novel from bestselling author Lynn Austin.

1873

After a devastating loss, Hannah Wagner never imagined she’d leave her comfortable home for the harsh, unfamiliar wilderness near Lake Michigan. But when Henry Abernathy, a friend of her husband John, offers them a fresh start in a booming lumber town—where John’s skills as a doctor are sorely needed—Hannah reluctantly agrees.

There, she meets Kate Abernathy, Henry’s spirited, much younger wife. Kate’s sharp tongue and outsider status have made her unwelcome among the town’s elite. As she begins confiding in Hannah, it becomes clear her marriage is not what it seems—and that a secret from her past could destroy everything.

Present Day

Ashley Gilbert never planned to settle in Michigan, but when her husband lands his dream job as a conservationist, she agrees to follow. While restoring their historic home—built in the 19th century for a doctor and his wife—Ashley becomes captivated by its past and its connection to the nearby Abernathy mansion, now being transformed into a museum.

While volunteering with the restoration, Ashley stumbles upon the unsolved mystery of Kate Abernathy’s disappearance. What begins as curiosity soon becomes a quest for the truth—one that will connect her to two women whose stories and struggles echo and inspire her own.

Standalone historical fiction about marriage, grief, and the power of female friendships from the author of All My Secrets and Long Way Home A richly layered Christian women’s fiction novel with elements of mystery, perfect for fans of Martha Hall Kelly, Kristy Cambron, and Susan Meissner Includes discussion questions for book clubs

AMAZON     

MY THOUGHTS.....

I've found it hard to express my thoughts about this riveting dual-timeline novel! The history and mystery of the 1870s timeline are engaging, but Lynn Austin's ability to connect them to a present-day plotline makes it even more captivating!

First of all, there are three amazing female characters! Hannah follows her husband, Dr. John Wagner when he accepts a new job near Lake Michigan in 1871. Hannah's deep grief over the loss of their children plays a prominent role as she finds a rare friendship with the young wife of lumber baron Henry Abernathy. Hannah and Kate are as different as night and day, but their friendship becomes a balm for both of them. Until Kate goes missing and Hannah doesn't know what has happened! 

In the present-day timeline, Ashley Gilbert discovers Hannah and Kate's story when she and her husband restore Hannah and John's former home, and also become involved in a nearby museum project. Once again, the mystery of Kate Abernathy's disappearance is brought to life, and the Abernathy house becomes a very important 'character' in both timelines. Austin reveals that her inspiration came after a visit to the real-life Hackley Mansion in Muskegon, Michigan. I loved her vivid descriptions, and I long to visit the Hackley Museum one day!

History, mystery, and wonderful characters make this a story that I won't soon forget, and you can bet that The Lumber Baron's Wife will have a permanent spot in my bookcase! The emotions are painfully raw as we read about the hardships, deep friendships, and powerful message of faith.

I urge you to read The Lumber Baron's Wife if you enjoy historical Christian fiction. I also recommend it to anyone eager to read an encouraging testament of hope, faith, and friendship!

I received a copy of this book from the author and Tyndale House Publishers. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

For many years, Lynn Austin nurtured a desire to write but frequent travels and the demands of her growing family postponed her career. When her husband's work took Lynn to Bogota, Colombia, for two years, she used the B.A. she'd earned at Southern Connecticut State University to become a teacher. After returning to the U.S., the Austins moved to Anderson, Indiana, Thunder Bay, Ontario, and later to Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published 27 novels. Eight of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, Fire by Night, A Proper Pursuit, and Until We Reach Home have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction. Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005. Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.

Learn more by visiting Lynn's Website or by following her on     Facebook     Twitter    Instagram    Pinterest

All My Secrets

Waiting For Christmas

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A Heart on Consignment (The Heart of the Amish, #12) by Mindy Steele

ABOUT THE BOOK

Despite knowing her parents are getting desperate for their only child to marry and give them grandchildren, Salina Stoltzfus is weary of seeking the perfect match. Every time she thinks she has found “the one,” he marries another.
 
The best way to forget you are the last woman any man in Havenlee, Indiana, wants to hitch his buggy too is to find something passionate to focus on. When the area is overrun with donations after a tragic storm, Salina suggests opening a consignment shop. The deacon supports the idea and offers his visiting nephew to help set things up.
 
After the embarrassment of having his fiancée call off their wedding, Seth Weaver takes his mother’s advice to leave Kentucky to stay with his uncle for a while. Unfortunately, Seth knows nothing about building furniture in his uncle’s factory, which is the only reason he agrees to help ready the consignment shop next door—not because of the little chatterbox working inside.
 
When Salina’s parents are caught meddling in her love life, she comes up with a crazy idea that might gain her some time and space. Could it be the road to happiness is paved with good intentions and epic fails—until we cross paths when the one made especially for us?
 

AMAZON     

MY THOUGHTS.....

Poor Salina! She considers herself a wallflower who will probably never marry, but her parents want their only child married...soon! It doesn't seem to matter that Salina wants love to come before marriage. If only she could find a husband who would also be her true and lasting love!

I'm always amazed by this author's ability to create characters who are so realistically endearing. Salina sometimes talks too much, and this often happens when she's around a young Amish newcomer in Havenlee. Is it possible that this brokenhearted visitor will recognize the true worth of a sweet, talkative "wallflower"?

I enjoyed watching Salina and Seth fake a romance to pacify Salina's family and friends, and I loved Seth's willingness to be a part of this pretend relationship. There's also a natural disaster that showcases the true Amish values we all admire. When tragedy strikes, they are the first to step up to help!

A Heart on Consignment has well-defined characters, intriguing plot developments, and inspiring faith. I recommend it to all who enjoy friendship, family, and Amish romance.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Raised in Kentucky timber country, Steele writes Amish Romance peppered in humor, using her rural surroundings as her muse. She is a best-selling author and the winner of the 2022 FHLCW Reader's Choice award for sweet romance. Steele creates realistic characters for her readers and believes in engaging all the senses to make you laugh, cry, hold your breath, and root for the happy-ever-after ending. Readers can find themselves, somewhere within the pages of her Amish fiction or romantic suspense novels.

Learn more by visiting Mindy's Website. 

You can also follow her on Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter  

The Heart of the Amish Series

 The Flower Quilter by Mindy Steele

Ruth's Ginger Snap Surprise by Anne Blackburne

The Quilt Room Secret by Lisa Jones Baker

Courting An Amish Bishop by Mindy Steele

Mary's Calico Hope by Anne Blackburne  

Serenity's Secret by Lisa Jones Baker

A Stolen Kiss by Mindy Steele

Lizzie's Little Mouse by Anne Blackburne

Hunting for a Husband by Mindy Steele

The Daughter's Choice by Kelly Irvin

Plain Jane's Secret Admirer by Anne Blackburne

A Heart on Consignment by Mindy Steele

View all my reviews

Pursued on the Run by Terri Reed

ABOUT THE BOOK

He’ll do anything to clear his name…
and protect his son.

Framed for a crime he didn’t commit, former sheriff’s investigator Sean Donovan is finally released from prison, only to be ambushed by unknown assailants—and left with a chilling warning. With his attackers now targeting his former fiancée, Assistant District Attorney Tracy Lynwood, he must take her under his protection…along with the son he didn’t know about. Fleeing to a remote location in Lake Tahoe, Sean and Tracy must navigate a web of corruption to expose the truth. But with fatal threats and untrustworthy allies everywhere, can they prove Sean’s innocence…and stay alive?

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

This story packs an emotional wallop from the first page, and the intensity never lets up! The hero returns home after serving time for a crime he didn't commit, threats abound from an unknown source, and a reunion with his ex-fiance introduces another tremendous shock! Sean Donovan has a son he didn't know about, and they all may be in danger!

I loved that I was kept guessing until the very end, because of carefully structured twists, turns, and clever hints that suggested one thing but actually meant something else. A second chance seemed likely for Sean and Tracy but there was a little matter of him finally proving his innocence! This is romantic suspense at its best, but author Terri Reed doesn't forget the nuggets of faith that are always so inspiring. Pursued on the Run is a perfect choice for fans of romantic Christian suspense!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Terri Reed's awarding winning romance and romantic suspense novels have appeared on Publishers Weekly top 5 Romance Bestsellers and Publishers Weekly top 5 Religion Fiction Bestsellers, Publishers Weekly top 5 Mass Market Paperback Bestsellers, Nielsen's Bookscan top 25 Bestsellers and featured in USA Today and have been #1 Amazon Bestsellers, as well as Fresh Picks at FreshFiction.com. Her novel A Family Under the Christmas Tree was adapted into a Hallmark movie and retitled Picture a Perfect Christmas. She resides in the Pacific Northwest with her college-sweetheart husband. When not writing, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends and agility training with her dog.

Learn more by visiting Terri's      Website    Facebook     Instagram

OTHER BOOKS BY TERRI REED

Search and Detect 

Trained to Protect

Standing Watch

Texas Christmas Cover-Up

Pursued on the Run

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Harbor Pointe (Hope Harbor #12) by Irene Hannon

ABOUT THE BOOK

As a principal dancer with a prestigious New York ballet company, Devyn Lee is far from her hometown of Hope Harbor on the Oregon coast. But when a family emergency compels her to return, her visit turns into an extended stay after complications arise.

Widowed millworker Aaron Steele pays no attention to the buzz in Hope Harbor about the famous dancer in town. Until his grieving ten-year-old daughter takes a fancy to Devyn after she agrees to help with a fundraising show for a local charity in which the young girl is performing. As the show--and Devyn--begin to lift his daughter's spirits, his own life is brightened by the beautiful ballerina as she slowly but surely captures his heart.

But what are the odds that such an accomplished, polished woman from the city could ever fall for a small-town lumberman with two left feet?

Bestselling and award-winning author Irene Hannon once again transports readers to the irresistible beauty and romance of the beloved coastal small town of Hope Harbor.

AMAZON     BAKER BOOK HOUSE

MY THOUGHTS.....

Famed ballerina Devyn Lee is called back to her hometown after her sister is seriously injured, but this temporary visit may be more than she bargained for. After years of estrangement, will she be able to repair her strained relationship with her sister Lauren? Devyn also encounters a hunky mill worker, and the saying "opposites attract" has never been truer! They may inhabit different worlds, but who wouldn't love a widower dedicated to caring for his grieving little girl and his grandfather? I loved the amazing chemistry between Devyn and Aaron, their reluctance and denial, and eventually, their acceptance of fate. Or should I say, God's Plan, with a little help from a charming matchmaker named Gramps?

What could be better than going home, seeing old friends, and replenishing my faith? I experience this joy each time I read one of Irene Hannon's Hope Harbor novels, and this book is no exception. Harbor Pointe is realistic, heartwarming, and inspiring! I recommend it to all who enjoy romantic Christian fiction, and I can't wait for the next visit to this Oregon coastal town!

I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my thoughts alone.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Irene Hannon, who writes both contemporary romance and romantic suspense, is the author of more than 50 novels. Her books have been honored with three coveted RITA awards from Romance Writers of America (the “Oscar” of romance fiction) and she is a member of that organization's elite Hall of Fame. She has also received a Career Achievement award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work. Other awards for individual books include National Readers' Choice, HOLT Medallion, Daphne du Maurier, Retailers Choice, Booksellers' Best, and Reviewers' Choice from RT Book Reviews. She is also a two-time Christy award finalist.

A former corporate communications executive with a Fortune 500 company, Irene now writes full time. To learn more about Irene and her books, visit her Website     Facebook     Twitter     Instagram  

Hope Harbor Series

Hope Harbor

Sea Rose Lane

Sandpiper Cove

Pelican Point

Driftwood Bay

Starfish Pier

Blackberry Beach

 Sea Glass Cottage 

Windswept Way 

Sandcastle Inn 

Sunrise Reef 

Harbor Pointe 

View all my reviews

Lassos and Lace (Healing Springs Ranch, #3) by Jody Hedlund

ABOUT THE BOOK

The lone girl of the family doesn’t think the McQuaid legacy of love can be hers. But is it within her reach after all?

As the event manager for Healing Springs Ranch, Emberly McQuaid works hard to prove her worth to her family. When an international banking group arrives at the ranch and her best personal concierge falls ill, Emberly has no choice but to step in and assist their most illustrious guest, the young and handsome CEO, Max Berg.

During his stay at the ranch, Prince Max is keeping his royalty a secret, hoping to escape the paparazzi along with the increasing pressure to marry a duchess by his birthday. He resists telling Emberly about his heritage because he likes that she doesn’t try to impress him. Even though he’s a workaholic, Max finds himself setting aside his duties to spend time with the beautiful redhead.

Feelings quickly escalate between the two, but they know a relationship can’t go anywhere. When they get stranded together in a mountain cabin, it’s all too easy to let the emotion of their time together sweep them away. But will they be able to overcome the obstacles that stand between them and find a way to be together?

* The inspirational themes in this book are light, and the romance is the primary focus. While the romance is sizzling and the kisses swoony, both the language and physical attraction are clean and wholesome.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Have you heard of the McQuaid legacy of love? It's said that members of this family fall in love fast and their love lasts forever! Emberly McQuaid knows it's happened to her parents and her brothers, but she doesn't think it will happen to her. And then, the arrival of a special visitor to Hidden Springs Ranch changes her life forever!

Lassos and Lace is a contemporary romance that continues the McQuaid family legacy that originated in the 1800s. Fast, furious, and forever certainly applies to Emberly and Max's relationship! Their attraction is instant, their chemistry amazing, and the sexual tension tops the charts in this clean but sizzling closed-door romance!

I loved the characters, setting, and the royal romance trope. Throw in being snowbound in a cabin with a gallant prince and the complication of overprotective brothers, and you'll understand why Lassos and Lace is such a special addition to the Hidden Springs Ranch series. Well done, Jody Hedlund!

I received a complimentary copy from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are mine alone.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over thirty historicals for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award. She lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy teens, and five spoiled cats.

When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.  

Learn more at Jody's Website     

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Healing Springs Ranch

Spurs and Sparks

Broncos and Ballads

Lassos and Lace

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Find Me in the Story (Jonathon Island / Season 2, #1) by Lisa Jordan & Susan May Warren

ABOUT THE BOOK

He built walls. She brought sunshine. Something had to give.

Eliza Quinn is running—from grief, from memories, from a hometown that holds too much pain. When her mother's illness pulls her back to charming Jonathon Island, she tells herself it's temporary. Help with the family. Don't get attached. Don't stay.

Then she meets Oliver Sullivan.

The brooding bookstore owner hasn't smiled since his wife died. His shop is failing. His heart is frozen. He doesn't need a partner, and he definitely doesn't need the sunshine-bright marketing whiz who keeps throwing open his curtains and filling his quiet world with chaos.

Except... maybe he does.

Forced to work together on a literary festival to save the bookstore, Eliza and Oliver discover that their differences might be exactly what they both need. She brings light to his shadows. He gives her a reason to stay. Between late nights and early morning arguments, something unexpected begins to bloom.

But trust doesn't come easy for two people who've been hurt. And one misunderstanding could destroy everything—including their chance at love.

Find Me in the Story is a heartwarming grumpy-sunshine romance about healing, second chances, and discovering that the best chapter of your life might be the one you never planned to write. Perfect for fans of Denise Hunter, Becky Wade, and cozy Hallmark movies.

MY THOUGHTS.....

It's such a treat to visit Jonathon Island again, and I couldn't have asked for a better return! Two grieving people join forces as Jonathon Island prepares for a special Book Festival. Eliza Quinn is an over-the-top enthusiast who doesn't just ask for a job in Oliver Sullivan's bookstore; she informs him that he needs to hire her! Will this somewhat reserved owner be willing to work with someone as outgoing as Eliza?

Find Me in the Story is a touching story of loss, grief, and second chances. Oliver's outward grumpiness can't hide his love for children or his joy in offering a story time each Saturday morning. This dedication isn't lost on Eliza, and her enthusiasm may be just what he needs! As their friendship deepens, Oliver accepts that he and Eliza may have a mutual story waiting to be written.

"New-to-me" author Lisa Jordan shares a lovely story of hope, faith, and healing. I recommend Find Me in the Story to all who enjoy contemporary Christian romance.

I received a complimentary ARC from Sunrise Publishing. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Heart, home, and faith have always been important to Lisa Jordan, so writing stories with those elements come naturally. Represented by Cynthia Ruchti of Books & Such Literary Management, Lisa is an award-winning author for Harlequin’s Love Inspired, writing contemporary Christian romance that promises hope and happily ever after. His Road to Redemption, her ninth published novel, was released in January 2022. Happily married to her own real-life hero for over thirty years, Lisa and her husband have two grown sons. By day, she is the content manager for Novel Academy, an online writing academy powered by My Book Therapy. When she isn’t writing, Lisa enjoys quality family time, being creative with friends, or getting lost in a good book. 

Learn more about Lisa at lisajordanbooks.com.

Follow her on    Facebook     X     Instagram

Susan May Warren is the USA Today bestselling, Christy and RITA award–winning author of more than eighty novels whose compelling plots and unforgettable characters have won acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. The mother of four grown children, and married to her real-life hero for over 30 years, she loves traveling and telling stories about life, adventure, and faith.

For exciting updates on her new releases, previous books, and more, visit her website or connect with Susan on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Jonathon Island | Season 2

Find Me in the Story by Lisa Jordan

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