The Florence Legacy by Lauraine Snelling | Contemporary Fiction Review

The Florence Legacy

Lauraine Snelling

Contemporary Fiction

As the last will of a close friend is read, three women discover that they have inherited a legacy from her: the funds to take a dream trip to Florence, Italy, in her memory. With plenty of hilarious travel mishaps along the way, this book is a story of deep friendship, of making room in our lives to celebrate and remember, of grief, of the realization that friendship keeps the memory alive, and the sweet discovery of unexpected romance.

My Thoughts

A trip to Italy to see the David has been on the top of Breeanna's bucket list. It seemed to always get pushed back but through the generous gift of a friend it finally looked like it would happen. But will the needs of her grown children be once again put first?

I enjoy reading stories from Lauraine Snelling because they feel real. Maybe not your story but certainly someone you know. The characters and situations aren't always rosy nor are they completely tragic. They are just real. Ever have a plugged toilet after regular service hours? It's in this story. How about someone new that you're possibly interested in being the one to help with the plugged toilet situation. Yep! That's included too.

By the way that's all happening back home while Breeanna is trying to enjoy her trip of a lifetime. And what a trip it was. I would have liked to be on the journey with her. Lots of caprese salad and gelato for dessert. That's my kind of  food. Add in all the amazing sights and it truly was the trip of a lifetime.

But of course a mom never stops being a mom. Weighing heavy on Breeanna is all the drama from home. Would this trip help her set some healthy boundaries for her own life? The journey through that is a struggle, but it's a struggle worth having. 

If you're looking for a relatable story give this one a try. (Or any of Lauraine Snelling's books for that matter!) As I turned the last page I was left wanting to take such an epic adventure as well as being thankful that God chose to bless us with messy but oh so lovely relationships. 

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www.LauraineSnelling.com

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Disclosure

I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.

 

Half Finished by Lauraine Snelling | Contemporary Fiction Review

Fatal Mistake (White Knights #1) by Susan Sleeman | Romantic Suspense Review

Fatal Mistake

White Knights #1

Susan Sleeman

Romantic Suspence

An FBI agent must protect the woman who can 

identify a terrorist bomber in bestselling author 
Susan Sleeman's riveting romantic suspense novel.

Each day could be her last...but not if he can help it.

Tara Parrish is the only person ever to survive an attack by the Lone Wolf bomber. Scared and emotionally scarred by her near death, she goes into hiding with only one plan--to stay alive for another day. She knows he's coming after her, and if he finds her, he will finish what he started.

Agent Cal Riggins has had only one goal for the past six months--to save lives by ending the Lone Wolf's bombing spree. To succeed, he needs the help of Tara Parrish, the one person who can lead them to the bomber. Cal puts his all into finding Tara, but once he locates her, he realizes if he can find her, the Lone Wolf can, too. He must protect Tara at all costs, and they'll both need to resist the mutual attraction growing between them to focus on hunting down the bomber, because one wrong move could be fatal.

My Thoughts

Susan Sleeman isn't a new author but she is a new-to-me author. Fatal Mistake was a wonderful introduction to her work. I enjoyed the fast pace of the plot and the detailed descriptions of the tactics used to intercept the Lone Wolf serial killer. 

This is the first book in the White Knights series that will revolve around a group of FBI special response agents. This novel features agent Cal Riggins. Cal and his team are on the hunt for the Lone Wolf bomber. They are tipped off by Tara Parrish who discovered the missing link to the killer's identity. It soon becomes evident that Tara is in grave danger and she is put into protective custody.

As I said earlier this is a fast read. It's one of those that you keep saying, just one more chapter and then I'll put it down. But before you know it you've devoured the entire book. I enjoyed the seemingly accurate drama and was fascinated by the tactics used to find and apprehend the killer. For the most part I enjoyed getting to know the characters and I look forward to reading the rest of the series to see how the team continues on. 

The only part that I found a bit irritating was the character of Cal. His angry outbursts don't seem to fit with a highly trained former Navy SEAL and a current FBI agent. I would think that his undisciplined actions would get him disciplined and or kicked out of the team. Even with that hesitation I still enjoyed the book immensely. 

This would be a good pick for your reading group. There are some great discussion questions in the back of the book that would make for interesting interactions within your group. There's also a teaser for the next book. According to the reading the next book is called Kill Shot and the featured agent will be Rick Cannon. It doesn't come out until early 2018 so the waiting is going to be torture.

Connect With The Author

TheSuspenseZone.com

www.SusanSleeman.com

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Kissing Father Christmas by Robin Jones Gunn | Contemporary Fiction Review

Kissing Father Christmas

Father Christmas #3

Robin Jones Gunn

Contemporary Fiction / Christmas

Bestselling, award-winning author 

Robin Jones Gunn welcomes us back to the 

cozy English village of Carlton Heath for a 

winter romance that will melt your heart.

Anna's first visit to Carlton Heath in England was last May for the wedding of her cousin Ian to Miranda. The beautiful event ended with a dance under the stars and Anna receiving an unexpected kiss from Peter, the groomsman who caught her eye and now holds her heart.

Now, at the invitation of family and friends, Anna is returning to Carlton Heath for Christmas. She has Peter's recent email to fill her with assurance that he's looking forward to seeing her again as well.

More than his brief words, though, the vivid memory of their unforgettable kiss provides a promise of more to come. Anna, ever the imaginative artist, has been busy painting a romantic conclusion to her holiday visit. Certainly she's not the only one who has been dreaming of another dance and another kiss.

But when she sees Peter again, his intentions seem to shift as speedily as the blustery winter weather. Is Anna's heart misleading her, or will Father Christmas bestow on her the gift of love for which she has long dreamed?

My Thoughts

Kissing Father Christmas is the third and final novella in the Father Christmas series by Robin Jones Gunn. I loved the first book, Finding Father Christmas, and I thoroughly enjoyed the second book, Engaging Father Christmas. I also enjoyed this novella.

The first and second books focused primarily on Miranda and then Miranda and Ian. This book shifts to Ian's American cousin Anna and Ian's friend and colleague Peter. The two met during Ian and Miranda's wedding which took place between the books. Now Anna has returned to Carlton Heath for a visit with the hopes that the friendship that began may develop into more.

While I was excited to return to Carlton Heath and catch up with what the characters had been doing, I just didn't click with Anna and Peter's story until almost the very end. I wish we knew earlier what is revealed later and then we could spend some time seeing the two's relationship deepen.

Even though I say that I am still a big fan of this book and series. Robin Jones Gunn has a way of developing characters that make them seem to dance off of the page and into the realm of reality. This particular series has a top story that is about a wonderful holiday romance. It's charming and inviting. But what separates her stories from the many others is the underlying story. If you look past the sweet romance you see a spiritual journey that convicts and entices you to look to your own walk with God. 

These books will most definitely go on my shelf to be revisited in years to come. I recommend them to anyone that is a fan of Christmas novellas. I would say that the books could probably read as stand-alone titles but they go so nicely together that you should scoop them all up.

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www.RobinGunn.com

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A Very Blessed Christmas Coloring Book by Robin Mead | Adult Coloring Book Review

A Very Blessed Christmas Coloring Book

Robin Mead

Nonfiction / Christmas

There is no better way to get into the full spirit of the holiday season than by coloring more than 85 uplifting illustrations in this special volume: frosty winter scenes, carolers in the snow, trees trimmed in nostalgic trappings, ornate churches, angels, nativities--all reminiscent of cozy moments with family and friends and the sweetest, simplest blessings of the holidays. Each artist can rejoice with a grateful heart and be reminded of the ultimate gift God gave the world. Also included are illustrated Scripture verses and fun, holiday craft cutouts that everyone can use to create their own ornaments, Christmas cards, gift tags, and more!

My Thoughts

The coloring trend is such a relaxing way to spend time gathering your thoughts and being creative. A Very Blessed Christmas Coloring Book captures all the sentiments of the season and allows you to express the joyous feelings that surround our celebration of the birth of Christ.

The pages are sturdy and seem to hold up well even though the designs are printed on both sides of the paper. I mostly used colored pencils because it is my favorite choice for coloring books but I think with a little prep (use something like clear gesso) you could even paint the designs. 

I liked that the designs were a mix of very complex patterns and also larger more simple designs. This made the book enjoyable for myself as well as some younger members of the family. Another really fun element of the book is the crafting section at the back. There are several pages that are designed to be colored, glittered, and whatever else you would like to do, and then cut out and made into ornaments or bookmarks. Such a nice way to get the whole family involved.

This would make a wonderful gift for the artist on your list. By itself it is a simple gift or stocking stuffer, but if you add a set of colored pencils it could easily be a complete gift. We enjoyed spending time with it in our family and I think others will as well.

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RobinMeadDesigns.com

InsightsAndBellyLaughs.com

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Christmas Quiet: Receiving The Gift Of His Presence: A 25-Day Devotional Coloring Book by Maisie Sparks & Lauren Younis | Advent Devotional Review

Christmas Quiet: Receiving The Gift Of His Presence

A 25-Day Devotional Coloring Book

Maisie Sparks & Lauren Younis

Nonfiction / Advent Devotional

Receive the gift of God's peaceful presence for Christmas 

while enjoying this uplifting devotional coloring book for 25 days.

In the 25 days leading up to Christmas you will deepen your awareness of God's loving presence and rejoice in the gift of your Savior by pausing daily to immerse yourself in these uplifting devotions, faith-building exercises, and peaceful coloring pages. Enjoy the true essence of the holiday as never before as you draw closer to God with this book.

Includes:

• 25 powerful devotions that can be read in five minutes and provide lasting inspiration,
• 25 reflective questions and thoughtful activities that deepen the experience of each devotion, and
• 25 gorgeous holiday coloring pages to enjoy whenever you like.

My Thoughts

I love the Advent season. For me it's a time to pause and reflect on the reason why we celebrate. But if I'm honest even the preparation for this blessed time can be overwhelming and create anything but peace. This beautiful devotional from Maisie Sparks and Lauren Younis understands the crazy that can come about in all of our well-doing.

Their book is designed to cut through all of the noise and allow our spirits to become quiet and focus on the reason for the season. There are twenty-five days of devotions and coloring pages. What I liked about the book is that the authors said right up front that it is okay to take more time with this book. It is meant to help you contemplate the miracle before us. If you need to take a few days to absorb one of the devotions, that's okay. 

The coloring page that corresponds with that day's devotion is printed on sturdy paper that should hold up well to colored pencils, markers, or even watercolors (as long as you don't over do the water!) The coloring page is one-sided so there is no problem with shadowing or bleed through. I have been cutting each coloring page out and displaying it in my home. It's a great way to continue focusing on the Scripture even after you've put the book away.

If you're looking for a way to quiet your spirit and focus on the One that the season is about I highly recommend this resource. 

The coloring pages make great wall hangings to help you reflect on the Scripture throughout your day.

Connect With The Authors

MaisieSparks.com

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The Second Half by Lauraine Snelling | Contemporary Fiction Review

The Second Half

Lauraine Snelling

Contemporary Fiction

Mona and Kenneth Sorenson are approaching the best years of their lives. Ken is days away from retiring after a successful career as the dean of students at Stone University, and Mona's biggest concern is keeping him from finding out about his surprise party. While she is building a business of her own, they're looking forward to traveling, occasional fishing trips with the grandchildren, and limitless hours in the garden. It's what they deserve after years of careful planning.

But life changes in an instant when they get the call from their son, a special forces officer in the Army, who is being deployed immediately to an unknown destination. Since his wife walked out on him and their two young children, his only option is to ask his parents to assume guardianship. Stepping back into a role they thought was behind them, Mona and Ken will need to find a way to embrace a second half that they never anticipated.

My Thoughts

As an empty-nester this novel resonated deeply with me. As much as we hate to admit it time moves along and with it our plans for the future. So much of our early married years seem to revolve around the kids, but as they begin to leave home our plans inevitably turn towards our future as a couple. That's where Mona and Kenneth Sorenson find themselves when we meet up with them.

Kenneth is on the verge of retirement and in his mind it is the perfect time to begin traveling and seeing all those places they've dreamed about. Mona on the other hand is eager to expand her business and travel with her husband in between clients. Of course even the best laid plans change in the face of Providence. In this case it came in the form of a phone call from their son. 

Before they know it Mona and Ken find themselves in the midst of raising children again. My favorite thing about this novel is that it explored all the elements of the situation. Ken and Mona dearly loved their grandkids but they were also disappointed that their plans needed to be laid aside. The story showed the joys of being a grandparent but also the deep sorrows of young children feeling abandoned. It is a very moving storyline and in my opinion one of Lauraine Snelling's best.

I of course think this book will appeal to empty-nesters but it will also resonate with anyone that has had to lay aside their hopes and dreams to do what is right. We've all had moments of disappointment but those of us with faith have also seen how God can use those times to grow and bless us. 

I would encourage anyone with a book club to consider this book as a selection. The subject matter is deep and complicated and will most definitely provoke good discussions. As a bonus there are questions in the back of the book that could get you started.

Connect With The Author

Photo courtesy of Ginger Murray Photography

www.LauraineSnelling.com

www.BlessingND.com

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Herb of Grace (Healing Grace, #1) by Adina Senft {Amish Fiction Review}

Herb of Grace

Healing Grace, #1

Adina Senft

Amish Fiction

Amish widow Sarah Yoder has been struggling to raise her two teenaged sons and provide a home where family and members of her Old Order Amish church can find fellowship and friendship. Though she is close to her in-laws, lately it feels like her relationship with her boys is splintering. Her stepson Simon wants to move out west with his cousins to find work. And her youngest, Caleb, is spending far too much time over at the tumbledown home of a man who left the church long ago. Henry Byler only returned recently to Willow Creek when he inherited the family farm--under protest--and now seems caught in a struggle between the faith of his childhood and the world he's come to know.

Ruth Lehman, the local Dokterfraa, believes Sarah should use her gift for growing plants to become an herbal healer, too. Sarah is reluctant, however, uncertain if caring for others will take her away from her family--the place where she believes God wants her. But when she feels called to help members of her community, she soon discovers that the heart can be scarred as deeply as the body. As she compiles her herbs, she waits for God to do his healing work in a man who rues a harsh decision, in a lonely prodigal who has lost everything, and maybe even in a herbalist-in-training who firmly believes she will never love again.

My Thoughts
I must admit that I judged this book by its cover and because of that I put off reading it. I enjoy Amish fiction and am always eager to read a new author but this one just didn't appeal to me. I was wrong, wrong, wrong! 

Adina Senft has a wonderfully engaging writing style that doesn't at all match up with the cover art. The story is quite modern and can easily be compared to other very well known Amish writers. I will most definitely be reading more of Adina's books. 

Herb of Grace introduces us to Sarah Yoder who is a young widow. She's struggling to raise her two boys, Simon age seventeen and Caleb age fourteen. Her strength of character is what drew me into the story. Sarah has many obstacles in her way but she is determined to make a life for her and her boys. 

One of the most interesting characters is Ruth Lehman who is a Dokterfraa, or an herbal healer. From the beginning Ruth sees that Sarah has to skills and tenacity to also become a healer. Because of their differing personalities they don't really give each other the warm fuzzies but it is a relationship that is intense and heartwarming in the end. 

If you like Amish fiction you should check this title out. It is the first book in a three book series. I'm looking forward to reading the next two titles and also going back and reading several of Adina's other books.

Connect With The Author

www.AdinaSenft.com

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GIVE: JOY Sweepstakes To Celebrate The Release of Heaven Sent Rain by Lauraine Snelling

To celebrate the release of  Heaven Sent Rain, FaithWords and author Lauraine Snelling are pleased to present the GIVE:JOY Sweepstakes. This sweepstakes features three spectacular prizes, each closely connected to the story, but each prize also comes with a twist: you “Enter to Give”, rather than “Enter to Win”!

This is your chance to do something beautiful and make a difference for a friend, family member, shelter, church, or charity.

Heaven Sent Rain

Lauraine Snelling

Contemporary Fiction

About the book:

Dinah Taylor has an orderly life, and that is just how she likes it. A perfectly furnished luxury apartment, a satisfying career as a scientist and CEO of her own company, and an uncomplicated personal life. But all of that changes when she meets seven-year-old Jonah.

The boy shows up one day, a scruffy dog by his side, in front of her office building. Dinah knows nothing about kids and even less about animals, but after she buys him breakfast, he shows up the next day...and the next. She tries to learn more about him, to help him, but he's remarkably skilled at evading her questions.

And then, late one night, he calls her in a panic--his dog has been badly injured. Dinah rushes them to a local animal clinic, where she meets Garret, a veterinarian with a thriving practice and a passion for drawing.

Though Jonah takes to Garret right away, for some reason neither understands, Dinah and Garret just don't mesh. But for Jonah's sake, their lives continue to collide, and slowly the relationship between these three strangers begins to change.

The Giveaway:

This giveaway starts July 1, 2014 and ends July 21, 2014 @ 11:59 pm (PST). Entry is open to US residents only, age 18 and over. Winners will be selected Tuesday July 22, 2014, and announced at laurainesnelling.com.

HELP & HOPE SUPPORT GIFT

In Heaven Sent Rain, Dinah meets an extraordinary little boy named Jonah, and his dog, Mutt. Jonah faces a life of struggle, hunger, and poverty, but his courage in these challenges inspires Dinah to step outside her well-ordered world and do something wonderful for him. Through her choice, Dinah discovers joy is found not in getting more for herself, but in giving to make someone else’s life better. Our Grand Prize winner will have the same opportunity for joy, with their choice of :

• A $250 VISA gift card for a friend in need, or
• A $250 donation to the faith-based charity, church, or shelter of their choice

BLESSINGS & BLOOMS SURPRISE BOUQUETS

A mysterious thing happens to Dinah several times in the story: flowers! Beautiful encouragement bouquets—with no sender's name—appear on her office desk during difficult times when she feels she can’t go on. In honor of Dinah's secret flower sender (you'll have to read the story to find out his or her identity) we're offering our Second Prize winner the chance to become a secret flower sender themselves, and brighten the day of a sick friend, a new mom, a military spouse, a weary co-worker, or some other deserving person in their life, with:

• A 3-month gift subscription to ProFlowers Bouquet of the Month Club

VALIANT VET ENCOURAGEMENT GIFT

Like Jonah's dog, Mutt, the animals in our lives are priceless sources of help, comfort, and unconditional love. No one understands this better than our story's hero, veterinarian Garret Miller. Throughout the book, “Dr. G” works tirelessly to save and heal people's furry friends, including Mutt, and an injured service dog named Valiant.

And Like Dr. G, many real-life veterinarians and animal shelter workers make all the difference in the lives of our animals, often giving services beyond what's billed. Our Third Prize winner will have a chance to do something extra special for their favorite vet or animal shelter, with:

• A $100 veterinary/shelter donation to be used toward treatment of an animal whose owner cannot afford to pay for veterinary care, or
• A $100 Starbucks card sent to the veterinary/shelter staff as a special encouragement gift