Blog Tour: The Last Man at the Inn by R. William Bennett

The Last Man at the Inn by R. William Bennett

Book Description:

Simon considers himself fortunate after securing the final room at the inn in Bethlehem. While eating his supper, he sees a younger man and his pregnant wife denied lodging at the door of the inn. Simon momentarily considers giving up his space, but he is weary from his travels as a spice merchant and turns away from the thought.

Over the ensuing years, Simon traverses the popular trade routes, and each time he passes Bethlehem, he is reminded of that evening and plagued by guilt.

In time, the Savior begins his ministry, and Simon begins the life-changing process of trying to understand and believe the teachings and miracles of this man called Jesus—said to be the promised Messiah.

The Last Man at the Inn is the story of a journey of conversion we all take in one form or another, told through the eyes and heart of a common man. It is written to affirm the believer, to lovingly beckon to the undecided, and to call out to those who may not even know they are looking for something—only that there is a space in their soul that somehow needs to be filled.

Review:

One of my favorite books to read at Christmastime is Jacob T. Marley by R. William Bennett. I absolutely love the message and have recommended it and given it as gifts. When I heard that the author had a new story, I was very excited. I didn't read The Last Man at the Inn as quickly as I would have liked, but I blame that on how busy my life has been the past few months. I think under regular circumstances it would have been a fast read.

I really liked thinking about the other people who were around at the time of Christ's birth. It was eye opening to think about how I would have felt if I were in Simon's position. Sadly I think I would have acted the same way as he did when Mary and Joseph sought room where he was staying. It's so easy to have the selfish "I got here first" mentality, instead of the charitable, giving mentality.

While this is a great story to read at Christmastime, the bulk of the novel takes place after the birth of Christ, thus making it a good read any time of year. We get to follow Simon's life during the time of Christ's life, and Simon's eventual conversion. Simon was never a bad man, but it was wonderful to read about his change of heart.

About the Author:

R. William Bennett grew up on the Jersey shore and in Connecticut. He is the author of the best-selling Christmas novella Jacob T. Marley and the award-winning book The Christmas Gift. He works as a division president of Franklin Covey. He and his wife are the parents of four children, and they live in the Southwest.

Advance Praise/Endorsements:

“Bennett (Jacob T. Marley) recreates the life of the cross-carrying Simon of Cyrene in this enchanting historical...Simon struggles to accept this new faith—until he is visited by the words of the Holy Spirit. Now preaching Jesus’s message, he follows his family toward Jerusalem. Fans of Mesu Andrews will love this earnest exploration of Simon of Cyrene’s struggle with faith.”
-Publishers Weekly

“Not just a Christmas book, The Last Man at the Inn is the story of a man who is experiencing a crisis of faith and his path to conversion. Beautifully told with a surprise ending.”
-Jason F. Wright, New York Times best-selling author of Christmas Jars

“Both riveting and poignant, this book gives the reader a glimpse into what it might have been like to live as one of the first Christians and followers of Jesus Christ. The story left me pondering the path of discipleship and gave me a deeper desire to stand more firmly as a witness of Christ in my own life.”
-Emily Belle Freeman, author of A Christ-Centered Christmas and A Christ-Centered Easter

“The Last Man at the Inn is a wonderful invitation to look at Christ’s birth, life, and death through new eyes. I appreciate William Bennett’s timely reminder that true disciples come to Christ and stay.”
-Brad Wilcox, author of The 7-Day Christian

Title: The Last Man at the Inn
Author: R. William Bennett
Publisher: Ensign Peak
Published: October 2019
ISBN: 1629726036
Source: Advanced reader copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book | Barnes & Noble

Blog Tour: The Christmas Doll by Jason F. Wright

The Christmas Doll by Jason F. Wright

Illustrated by Howard Lyon

Book Description:

Christmas is fast approaching, but in the Saxton home, there is no money for gifts. Could there still be something special for Gail underneath the tree?

In The Christmas Doll, best-selling author Jason F. Wright shares a true story from the life of Gail Saxton Miller, billionaire businesswoman and owner of the Utah Jazz NBA team. But Gail's childhood was vastly different from her life now—facing poverty in the 1940s, the Saxton family made ends meet by turning their small home into rental apartments and made do with hand-me-downs and secondhand items.

However, their humble circumstances didn't stop the Saxtons from being rich in what mattered most: self-less acts of love, the rewards of a job well done, and the hope and renewal we can feel through Jesus Christ. All of these lessons come together at Christmastime, when Gail learns of love and sacrifice through a single, precious gift.

The Christmas Doll teaches a wise lesson about the true meaning of the holiday. Christmas isn't just about beautiful decorations or shiny, expensive gifts; it's about the miracle of Jesus to make old things new, revitalize our lives, and bring out the best in humankind to care for another.

Review:

The Christmas Doll tells a wonderful message about the renewal that Jesus Christ gives to each of us. We can be healed and the broken can be fixed. This message of second chances is told by sharing Gail Saxton Miller's story of when she was a young girl and she received a beautiful doll for Christmas. She treasured the doll and never went without her. But, as the year went on the doll became quite worn and eventually was relegated to the shelf. Due to love and care from a family friend, Gail was surprised with a refurbished doll (that she later learned was her cherished doll). Not only is the message a wonderful and timely one, but the illustrations are exquisite.

About the Author:

Jason F. Wright is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today best-selling author, creator, and speaker. His work has appeared in over 100 newspapers, magazines, and websites across the United States, including the Washington Times, the Chicago Tribune, Forbes, CNN.com and FoxNews.com. Jason and his wife, Kodi live in Virginia’s beautiful Shenandoah Valley. They have two girls, two boys, and a 110-pound Goldendoodle named Pilgrim who thinks he’s a lapdog.

About the Illustrator:

Howard Lyon was born and raised in Mesa, Arizona. He has studied art in Italy, France, and most recently at the Grand Central Academy in New York. Over the past twenty years, he has worked in the video game industry as an art director, concept artist, and freelance illustrator. Howard and his wife and three children live in Utah.

Title: The Christmas Doll
Author: Jason F. Wright
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Published: October 2019
ISBN: 1629726117
Source: Review copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book | Barnes & Noble | BAM | Indie Bound

DESCRIPTION OF LIVE ALL IN: 

As a member of LIVE ALL IN, you'll receive a brand new Hilary Weeks song every month. You will also
have access to a song study that includes scriptures, quotes and questions to help you study the 
message of the song that month! Every month, you'll receive the sheet music and instrumental track for
that song. Plus you'll get the beautifully designed lyrics, coloring page and two 5x7 printables that you 
can frame for your home or use as lesson handouts. 

Blog Tour Sale Offer - You can purchase a 2020 Live All In Annual Membership for early bird price of 
$49 (reg. $59) and if you use the coupon SALE15, you get another 15% off! Only $42!! 

You and your family can also enjoy an entire year's worth of gorgeous, monthly music, sheet music, 
coloring pages, printables for your home, song studies, and lyrics for under $4 a month! 

DIRECT LINK TO PURCHASE: 

https://hilaryweeks.com/live-all-in/

REVIEW: 

How fun is this idea?!? I've never seen anything like it for music before, and I love the tie-in to music and life in a way that will bring you closer to God.  Now for a little embarrassing confession here. I've loved Hilary Weeks' music for as long as I can remember. I've listened to her church songs over and over again (seriously, her version of I Am a Child of God is the best version ever), but I never realized how country her music is. I guess I've never listened to any of her stuff that wasn't church music and so I wasn't expecting the style that I heard. How embarrassing is that?

The website is simple and easy to navigate, not to mention beautiful. The App is easy to navigate as well, but I found it a little simple. Not sure what else I was expecting, it just seems...like it should do more. However, I'm one of those annoying people who will say something like that, but have no idea what that "more" should actually entail. So take that opinion for what it's worth. With all that being said, I do like that I have music like this at my finger tips, and that when I'm in the car I can turn this on with my kids and we can all be uplifted instead of cringing and turning the radio station when something bad is said. It's very handy to have on my phone, which serves the apps main purpose right there.

I love the study sheets that come with the subscription. If you really take the time to do them, they can be very thought-provoking. I didn't have much use for the printables, but I'm also no good at decorating, so there's that. The coloring pages are fun, and actually, I can see my teenage daughter getting into those. Especially when she's stressed out or bored. 

I can easily see this as a great gift for someone who loves music and is willing to take the time to let the music inspire and uplift them.

RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY:

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DVD Review:

Movie Synopsis:

Based on the New York Times best- selling novel by Jason F. Wright.

Hope is an aspiring reporter who has had her fair share of tragedy in life. Abandoned at birth, she's grieving the recent death of her adopted mother when her apartment is burglarized of all her possessions. While reporting the burglary to the police, Hope discovers a jar full of money, labeled "Christmas Jar." Shocked and grateful for this act of kindness, Hope discovers that people all over her hometown of Columbus, Ohio, have been receiving Christmas Jars for years during times of need. The jars are always anonymous and always contain different amounts. In this heartwarming Christmas classic, Hope goes undercover to discover the secret behind the Christmas jars, putting into motion a series of events that will change her life, and her community, forever.

Trailer:

Purchase:

Deseret Book | Amazon

Review:

I really enjoyed the novel Christmas Jars when I read it 12 years ago. The details have long since faded, but remembering that I liked it led me to want to watch the new movie based on the novel. It has a very good message about looking beyond ourselves and helping those in need.

Hope didn't want to be alone in her grief and went back to work very quickly. Her co-workers were pretty silly and that was probably something that she needed to not be pulled down by her sorrows. She dreamed of being a writer, and shortly after returning to work she was given the opportunity to pitch a story to her boss and co-workers. She got a green light to move ahead with a story about Christmas jars that had been anonymously given to people around Columbus. I think Hope went into the story with good intentions, but I was bothered by the lies she told in her quest to find the truth. As a family friendly movie, her actions would be a good teaching moment to show the importance of telling the truth (and the burden that comes from having to remember your lies to keep the facade going).

I think this would be a good fit for those who love Hallmark-type Christmas movies. The acting is pretty good, and the cinematography is very well done. It has some serious moments (I cried a few times), but it has a pretty light feel for the bulk of the story.

Giveaway:

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Book Review: Hope's Highest Mountain by Misty M. Beller

 

Book Description:

Ingrid Chastain readily agreed to accompany her father to deliver vaccines to a mining town in the Montana Territory. She never could have anticipated a terrible accident would leave her alone and badly injured in the wilderness. When rescue comes in the form of a mysterious mountain man who tends her injuries, she's hesitant to put her trust in this quiet man who seems to have his own wounds.

Micah Bradley left his work as a doctor after unintentionally bringing home the smallpox disease that killed his wife and daughter. But his self-imposed solitude in the wilds of Montana is broken when he finds Ingrid in desperate need of medical attention, and he's forced to face his regret and call on his doctoring skills once again.

Micah can't help but admire Ingrid's tenacious determination despite the severity of her injuries, until he learns the crate she brought contains smallpox vaccines to help quell a nearby outbreak. With Ingrid dead set on trekking through the mountains to deliver the medicine--with or without his help--he has no choice but to accompany her. As they set off through the treacherous, snow-covered Rocky Mountains against all odds, the journey ahead will change their lives more than they could have known.

Rorie's Review:

I was lucky enough to travel through Montana a year ago, and I fell in love with the state. It was so open and beautiful. We were there in the summer though - I can't even begin to imagine how cold it gets in the winter. I also am amazed at the trappers who lived mostly outside in the rough winter conditions. As a person who is pretty much always cold, I can't even fathom how they would ever be warm or comfortable. That thought was in the back of my mind throughout most of this story.

Ingrid is very lucky to be alive, after Micah came across her shortly after the accident that killed her father and maid. I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between the two of them. Ingrid was a very strong woman, especially with all  the loss she had just suffered. Maybe a bit too strong sometimes. She was really good for Micah though, helping him learn how to live again instead of just hiding from the world.

The thing I wasn't so fond of in this story were all of the calamities that kept happening. A few of them were fine, but they just kept coming. It got to the point where I skimmed over the last few of them because it was just too much.

This is book one in a series, but I appreciated how it seems to be a stand-alone book. We're not left wondering what will happen with the characters.

Tarah's Review:

I really just couldn't get into this book. Maybe it's because of what going on in my life right now, but it was one of those books that I could set down and forget all about until I saw it again buried under a stack of something.

I also kinda struggled with Ingrid and Micah's relationship. Also, Ingrid's name. When they traveled with Joanna, I kept switching the two in my mind. There is nothing wrong with the name Ingrid. It may be a little harsh sounding, but it just didn't fit the character very well. Anyway, back to the relationship, it just seemed...convenient. Micah's been alone for awhile, in the wilderness, and suffered a great loss. He stumbles upon a pretty woman, and ya...after not seeing or being around anyone for a long time I can see how he would be attracted to her. But not necessarily to her, but maybe the idea of her. Anyway, kinda the same for Ingrid. Her father kept her close during her come out years, and it didn't seem like she had a lot of courting experience. So when she gets rescued by a manly mountain man who saves her life, ya, she's smitten. But none of it seemed lasting to me.

I will fully admit that it was probably just my mood an my circumstances that made me slog though, so I hesitate to even write anything that could not be a fair representation. But unless I read it again, which I don't see myself doing, I can't change what I'm thinking about this book.



Title: Hope's Highest Mountain
Author: Misty M. Beller
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Published: October 2019
ISBN: 0764233467
Source: Review copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

Purchase: Amazon Barnes & Noble

Blog Tour: To Die, To Sleep by Stephanie Black

Book Description: 

After surviving a difficult year, Natalie Marsh is heading for Ellsberg Keep, an exclusive mountain resort that promises to provide the tranquility she desperately needs. She's eager to relax and to reconnect with her estranged cousin Lily, who works as the Keep's nurse—a reunion that begins abruptly when an accident on the winding mountain roads lands Natalie in the infirmary in the care of her cousin. They have little time to bond over childhood memories, however. Everything is thrown into chaos when the owner of the Keep is rushed to the medical wing, wildly delusional and raving about a murder plot.

Despite Lily's care, the owner dies. Is his death simply an accident, or are his frenzied suspicions true? Determined to help Lily cope with the loss of her patient—and the accusations that she's to blame for his death—Natalie searches for answers and is swept into a mystery that grows more puzzling as frightening hallucinations torment the dead man's son. When a staff member who asks too many questions disappears, it is clear that this idyllic resort harbors someone with deadly intent—and Natalie may not survive to uncover the truth.

Rorie's Review: 

Imagine going on a vacation to recover from some horrible happenings in your life, only to find yourself stuck in an overpriced retreat where people keep dying. That is Natalie's life in this book. 

The author does a great job of keeping the reader guessing about who the bad guy is. Even when Natalie figured it out for real, I wasn't entirely convinced she was right, because it wasn't who I thought it was going to be.

I think Anthony and Finn were probably my favorite characters. The entire Ellsburg family had me shaking my head in disbelief at times. Definitely an interesting bunch of characters. Also, the setting for this story? It was supposed to be this posh (overpriced) getaway up in the mountains. To me, it came across as this spooky, dark and drafty fortress - probably due to all the dying and crazy people, but also due to the cover of the book. 

This was one of those books where I'd tell myself I'd read "just to the end of the chapter," and finally have to force myself to put the book down 4 chapters later. Not too creepy to read alone at night, but suspenseful enough that I had to keep reading in order to find out what was going to happen next.

Giveaway:

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Title: To Die, To Sleep 

Author: Stephanie Black
Publisher: Covenant Communications, Inc.
Published: November 2019
ISBN: 1524409138
Source: Review copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book 

Review: Bouncing Back by Brandon Carter

Bouncing Back by Brandon Carter

Book Description:

Ever feel like life is kicking you while you're down? That there is no light at the end of the tunnel or want to give up on hoping?

Brandon Carter's book is called "Bouncing Back." It's about his life before and after having brain surgery about 10 years ago. Brandon went from having a successful life as a semi-pro baseball player, to having to learn to walk and talk again post-surgery. He would not accept "no" or "you can't" as an answer, and he fought hard to become who he is today. He overcame the odds to become a youth leader and coach in his church, get a 4.0 GPA in college, and become a scoutmaster. It was during this process that he learned to lean on Christ for his strength, and he has a very strong testimony today because of it.

This story is one of hope and proves that you can do anything no matter who may tell you that you can’t!

Review:

I don't read many memoirs (or much non-fiction for that matter), but an old friend of mine was very touched by Brandon's story and sent me a copy of his book to read.

There's no denying that Brandon's story is inspirational. Coming back after being knocked down in the prime of your life by surgery and many life altering aftereffects due to a brain tumor isn't something that everyone has the willpower to do. Brandon's doctor told him he would never walk again, but he refused to believe that. He worked hard to regain his physical abilities, and he didn't stop there. He came back to the church of his youth after being estranged from it for years and found happiness and fulfillment in his callings and associations. He wanted to improve himself, so he went back to school and did very well.

Brandon shares that his speech was affected, but I didn't truly understand what he meant until I watched one of his videos online. Having watched that I think his accomplishments are even more impressive in this harsh world.

The support he received at the time of his diagnosis and through the surgery and years of recovery was very touching.

The story is told in a bit of an unorthodox manner, jumping back and forth throughout his life. He acknowledges that it might be confusing, and includes a timeline of events in one of the later chapters. While you don't get the polish out of this book that you would with a traditionally published story, it has a wonderful message and is worth the read.

Giveaway:


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Book Trailer:

 Follow Brandon:

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Title: Bouncing Back
Author: Brandon Carter
Publisher: Independently Published
Published: August 2018
ISBN: 1717972241
Source: eCopy from a friend. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Amazon

Blog Tour: Maggie's Place by Annette Haws

Review * Giveaway

 Maggie's Place by Annette Haws

Book Description:

Years ago, Mary Margaret Sullivan changed her name, boxed up her previous life, moved into the Eagle Gate Apartments, and hid her painful memories in her chicken-wire storage unit in the basement. But secrets have an inconvenient way of surfacing when least expected.

Three weeks before Christmas, an elegant man in a penthouse, a young woman named Carly—homeless and ill with pneumonia—and two calculating thieves invade Maggie’s carefully reconstructed life, and in different ways, each is connected to Maggie’s difficult past. As Maggie and friends nurse Carly back to health, hearts begin to heal with a hope for the future. But all is not as it seems. When faced with the shocking truth, Maggie must rely on her wits, her friends, and her own strength as never before.

Review:

Maggie's Place was such a pleasant surprise. While the description caught my attention, I wasn't sure what to expect from the author. I'm happy to say that Annette Haws really delivered with this novel.

Maggie is a senior citizen with limited means and a mysterious past. Life seems to have given her more than her fair share of lemons, and I found myself very invested to see if she would get a happy ending. I loved her friends, and felt so bad about her strained relationship with her children.

My emotions took quite the ride throughout the story. I literally laughed and cried and loved the themes of love, redemption, and forgiveness.

I highly recommend Maggie's Place, and am looking forward to reading it again.

About the Author: 

A people watcher from an early age and a native of a small college town on the northern edge of Utah, Annette Haws examines the tribulations and the foibles of characters playing their parts on a small stage. A graduate of Utah State University, Annette also did honors graduate work in American Literature and Creative Writing at the University of Iowa and the University of Utah. Annette’s best memories from her years teaching in the public school system are coaching mock trial and a; particularly, an all girls team of ninth-graders that advanced to win the state championship.

After spending fourteen years in the classroom, Annette set aside her denim skirts and practical shoes to pursue her interest in writing fiction. Three of her short stories, “Fish Stories,” “The Gift of Tongues,” and “Come to Zion” have been published in Dialogue Journal. Her first novel about the travails of a school teacher, Waiting for the Light to Change, won Best of State, A Whitney Award for Best Fiction, and the League of Utah Writers award for best published fiction. Her second novel, The Accidental Marriage, a delightful story of a new marriage that runs amuck, was released in December of 2013. In Maggie’s Place, Ms. Haws tackles young love, homelessness, suicide, knitting, dementia, and the personal baggage that encumbers people entering the third act of their lives.

She is the mother of four above average children and is the spouse of a patient husband. 

Website | Facebook | Goodreads

Join Annette Haws tonight,

November 14th, from 7:00-9:00 PM at 

The King's English Bookshop in Salt Lake City

for the Maggie's Place launch party. 

Tour Giveaway:

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Title: Maggie's Place
Author: Annette Haws
Publisher: Covenant Communications, Inc.
Published: November 2019
ISBN: 1524410160
Source: Review copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book

Book Review: The Spice King by Elizabeth Camden

Book Description:

Gray Delacroix has dedicated his life to building an acclaimed global spice empire, but it has come at a cost. Resolved to salvage his family before they spiral out of control, he returns to his ancestral home for good after years of traveling the world.

As a junior botanist for the Smithsonian, Annabelle Larkin has been charged with the impossible task of gaining access to the notoriously private Delacroix plant collection. If she fails, she will be out of a job and the family farm in Kansas will go under. She has no idea that in gaining entrance to the Delacroix world, she will unwittingly step into a web of dangerous political intrigue far beyond her experience.

Unable to deny her attraction to the reclusive business tycoon, Annabelle will be forced to choose between her heart and loyalty to her country. Can Gray and Annabelle find a way through the storm of scandal without destroying the family Gray is fighting to save?

Book Review:

I have really enjoyed books by Elizabeth Camden, but I was hesitant to read this book because of the title. I'm not big into spices.  I consider salt my spice of choice and generally leave everything else out, so even though it's weird, that worried me about reading this book. I felt like I wouldn't be able to relate. My silly fears were unfounded, and while there was some spice stuff in the book, it wasn't as heavy as I thought it would be. Really it was more in the first quarter of the book, and it was interesting. But I digress.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I think one of the reasons I liked it was because the romance was a little different than I'm used to. There wasn't any hemming or hawing about does he like me, is she interested. They were both open with their feelings and there wasn't any stress in that area. The conflict came from people choices, and how those choices affected families. It was different, and I loved it.
I also found the food regulations very intriguing. I will admit I'm not super picky about what goes into my food, so reading about what businesses would put in their food and try to pass it off as something different was very eye opening. The cost aspect of it for the general person was an area I'm glad was also brought out in the story.
This was definitely another winner in my book by Elizabeth Camden, and I can't wait for the rest of the series. Gray's siblings stories are going to be very good!




Title: The Spice King
Author: Elizabeth Camden
Publisher: Bethany House
Published: September 2019
ISBN: 0764232118
Source: I received a copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Spotlight: The Forgotten Carols

The Forgotten Carols stage performance is a show that recounts the story of Christ’s birth as told by little known characters in the nativity story. The accounts from the Innkeeper, the Shepherd and others, reminds us of what the world has forgotten about Christmas.

Michael McLean, the creator and performer in the show, has been putting this performance on for 28 years now. After 28 years McLean says he has actually changed it up. He tells us the actors and songs remain the same, but he added a magical twist. He urges all who haven’t and even those who have to come see what he has in store this year.

The Forgotten Carols have 19 performances starting November 26th and goes until December 23rd. Buy tickets, find showtimes, and more information on their website www.forgottencarols.com.

Giveaway:

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Blog Tour: The Heart of the Rebellion by Sian Ann Bessey

Book Description:

September 1400 
King Richard II of England is dead. And after three years in His Majesty's service, Rhys ap Tudor and his brother Gwilym are finally free to return to their ancestral home in North Wales. Their long anticipated homecoming is overshadowed, however, by the harsh changes they encounter in their once peaceful land. The new king, Henry IV, rules with an iron fist, and the country is ripe for rebellion. Instantly thrust into the forefront of the conflict, the proud Tudor brothers enter the fight for their freedom.
Lady Catrin Buckley is alert to the unrest swirling around her. As the daughter of an English father and a Welsh mother, she knows too well the trouble her lineage poses. Her own battle, however, is one of the heart: she is to be married to a man she neither knows nor loves. Then an unexpected encounter with the enigmatic Rhys ap Tudor changes everything. Soon, Catrin finds herself swept into a rebellion that could not only change history but also rewrite her own future.

Rorie's Review:

I had heard of the Tudors before, but wasn't sure if they were real people or not. It was interesting to read the author's note at the end that gave the reader more information on these very real people. I always enjoy extra information with these historical novels. 

As usual, I completely butcher Welsh pronunciation, but this time it didn't make my mind stutter as much as it has in the past, which made for a much smoother reading. 

I really enjoyed this story. Catrin and her relationship with her father, Rhys and others that she came in contact with just made the story for me. I do wonder what happened to her father though. I may have to reread it and see if I missed that information in there somewhere. It is so easy to get lost in these stories. I always enjoy reading book from this author.

I'm not usually one to comment on the cover of a book, but I absolutely love this one. I kept looking at it, just taking everything in. Catrin's dress is beautiful and the scenery is breathtaking. Whoever chose this cover did an amazing job.

Tarah's Review:

All I know about Tudor times I learned on the Great British Baking Show, so this was an interesting time frame for me. I was pulled into the story right away, and couldn't wait to see what happened next.
I loved the interactions between Catrin and Rhys. Rhys is a great lead character. His interactions with his brothers and his soldiers were well done, and I would have liked to have had more of that in the story.
I felt like the pacing of the book was a little off. It never dragged, but it went from a slower pace to a very quick battle and then nothing. It seemed like the battles were super simple and quick, and I struggled with that.
I'm super curious about what happened with Catrin's father. I wished the story would have delved into that. I feel like a lot was missing from that aspect of the story, and it would have flushed things out a little more had we been privy to what happened to him and what he thought about his daughter's decisions. Even if it came from her maid's point of view, I felt like we needed more from that area of the story.
It was a quick read, it was entertaining, and the history behind it made me curious to know more. I will pass this along to others.

Giveaway:
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Title: The Heart of the Rebellion
Author: Sian Ann Bessey
Publisher: Covenant Communications, Inc.
Published: November 2019
ISBN: 1524409731
Source: Review copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book

Blog Tour: A Different Kind of Strong by Daniel L. Trotter

A Different Kind of Strong by Daniel L. Trotter

Book Synopsis:  

On October 14, 2011, Daniel Trotter began a forty-day fast. He was consumed by the question and desperate to know, what do I do? After thirty days in the wilderness, God sent him home with an answer. It was, “Come back to Me.”

For decades, Daniel was held in thrall to alcohol, drugs, porn, and depression. He had friends, but life had lost all meaning.

During a radical thirty-day fast, Daniel encountered God – and great temptation. Afterward, he lost his wife, and his home, but he gained a new perspective – God’s. He went back to school and graduated with honors. God blessed him with a remarriage to someone who understands his heart and shares his faith. He has found peace and purpose.

Daniel found freedom in God’s love and in following God and living according to his precepts. Daniel’s memoir will show you how God can heal every physical, mental and emotional hurt and help you to become whole.

Review:

I don't read a lot of non-fiction, but found A Different Kind of Strong to be a worthwhile and eye-opening read. One of the best things about the book is that we should never give up hope on someone who has lost their way. Many people probably thought that Daniel wasn't ever going to get clean-that he was a "lost cause", but against the odds he came to realize that he needed to change. And I loved that he had a few people in his life that he could always call on that loved him and were a positive influence-no matter what he'd done. I hope that I can be that kind of person for someone.

Daniel tells his story by going back and forth between the past and the present. Some of his history is quite shocking-maybe even surprising that someone would be willing to share those dark parts of their past with the world. But, we wouldn't truly be able to understand his transformation if he'd held back. You don't often hear about people doing a complete 180 with their lives, and Daniel's story is inspiring.

Never starting with things like drugs, alcohol, and pornography can save you from so much self destruction and hurt. Also, the company you keep makes such a huge difference in your life. We all know these things, but Daniel's story shows really drives it home.

There were a few things that I would have liked more details on (i.e. his fast), but that didn't detract from the messages in the book.


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Title: A Different Kind of Strong (Second Edition)
Author: Daniel L. Trotter
Publisher: Open Door
Published: August 2019
ISBN: 1733149503
Source: Review copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Amazon

Book Review: Paul, Big, and Small by David Glen Robb

Paul, Big, and Small by David Glen Robb

Book Description:

Paul Adams has always been short, but he’s an excellent rock climber. And his small size means he can hide from the bullies that prowl the halls of his high school.

Top on his list of “People to Avoid” are Conor, from his Language Arts class, Hunter, who hangs around the climbing gym, and Lily Small, who happens to be the tallest girl in school. But he might be able to be friends with a new kid from Hawaii who insists that everyone call him “Big.” He’s got a way of bringing everyone into his circle and finding the beauty in even the worst of situations.

When the three of them—Paul, Big, and Small—are assigned to the same group project, they form an unlikely friendship. And Paul realizes that maybe Lily isn’t so bad after all. He might even actually like her. And maybe even more than like her.

Paul and Lily team up for a rock-climbing competition, but when Lily is diagnosed with leukemia, Paul ends up with Conor on his team. And when Paul learns that Conor is dealing with bullies of his own—as well as some deep emotional pain—he realizes that the bullying in his school has got to stop.

Paul, Big, and Small is about the turbulent, emotional lives of young adults who are struggling with life’s challenges openly and sometimes in secret.

Rorie's Review:

Wow. Just...wow. If you're looking for a book that will make an impact, this is the one. Before I was even halfway finished with this story, I knew my older two kids needed to read it. Really, everyone needs to read it. Having been bullied to some extent in my middle and high school years, I could relate a bit to the misery that was high school for Paul. I completely understood the feelings of just wanting to be invisible and not draw attention to yourself. This story gives you all the feels and then some. There is more than one story going on and the author really makes you think about the situations that are happening in a different way. Kind of an uncomfortable way, to be honest. 

I LOVED Big. His character made me smile every time he was present. The world would be such a better place if we had more Bigs and less Hunters in it. 

I highly recommend this story.

Andrea's Review: 

I really enjoyed Paul, Big, and Small, and encouraged my kids to read it. Not only is it well-written, but the messages are important for all ages. The bullying aspect was hard to read, but it's so important to know that everyone is fighting their own battles. We don't know what most people are going through and kindness goes a long way.

My favorite character was Big. I loved his cheerful, friendly attitude, and aspire to be more like him. He truly was the sunshine to those around him.

I liked the rock climbing aspect of the story. I've done a little climbing, and have friends and loved ones who are really into it. It was heartwarming to see the confidence it gave Paul. We each have something we are good at, and it was wonderful to read about how Paul didn't need to be tall or strong to succeed at climbing.

I also have friends and loved ones who are very short, and was able to connect to Paul and understand some his struggles.

I saw the other day that the audio book is available and I started listening to it. It's a great book to re-read or listen to multiple times. I highly recommend this book.

Tarah's Review:

Once I dove into this story it was really hard to put it down and focus on other things. It's very insightful and thought-provoking. It broke my heart how Paul felt he had to be invisible, and being noticed made everything worse. I loved how the author brought in the aspect of putting people in boxes and judging them before knowing them at all. I think we all tend to do this to some extent and really, we should all be like Big and look for the beauty around us. I'm intensely curious as to Big's backstory. I appreciated Paul's dad, and his insights. I was shocked when he told Paul he needed to apologize to Small. What a wonderful way to handle that situation. Which brings up the point that none of us are perfect, and even if, in our mind, we think we are right, we should still think about our impact on other people.

It also hit home to me how much of a difference good friends can make in a life. My kids have dealt with this, and it was a part of the story that I could really relate too. After reading this it made me really recommit to being nice to others, and thinking before I speak to or about others. This is definitely a book I want my children to read and really act on.
 
Kember's Review:

I really liked this book. I liked how almost any one could relate to this book. You really come to know the characters and feel what they are feeling. One thing I really liked was how they rock climbed. I like this because with in all the hard stuff going on they found something that made them happy. Or with Big, he focused on the beautiful stuff in life. I wish more people could see the good in today's world. I like this story because it taught me how important good friends are. They can help you or hurt you. I will most definitely read this book again. I would recommend this book if you are starting Jr. High or middle school. Or any one else who wants to read a good book.


Title: Paul, Big, and Small
Author: David Glen Robb
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Published: October 2019
ISBN: 1629726028
Source: Review copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book

Blog Tour: The Candy Cane Caper by Josi S. Kilpack

The Candy Cane Caper by Josi S. Kilpack

Book Description:

The theft of a friend’s priceless, family-legacy Christmas ornaments brings amateur detective and culinary expert, Sadie Hoffmiller, back on the case in a new standalone cozy mystery.


In the latest chapter to the Culinary Mystery series, amateur detective Sadie Hoffmiller continues combining her sleuthing with her cooking and baking to connect with people and gain information she might otherwise not have access to. Moreover, now that Sadie is married to Detective Pete Cunningham, she has a street-savvy husband to test out her crime-solving theories.


With Christmas approaching, Sadie is preparing for a large blended-family gathering including many new grandchildren--in their home in Fort Collins, Colorado.  Even with the festive chaos, Sadie drops everything when word gets out that her friend, Mary, is the victim of a holiday robbery.   


At ninety-four years old, and nearly blind, Mary knows this is may be her last Christmas and the last year to enjoy her family heirloom Christmas tree ornaments. She wants just one more holiday to display her ornaments and following Christmas Eve Mass, she’ll pass them on to her great-granddaughter, Joy. Though priceless to the family, the collection has been valued at $40,000, and the Christmas tree in the care facility has never looked so good. But before the ornaments can be retrieved by Mary, eleven of the most expensive ornaments are stolen.  


A holiday Christmas caper might be new to Sadie, but she’s ready to mix in her seasoned crime-solving skills with a pinch of new holiday recipes.

Rorie's Review:

I've only read one other Sadie Hoffmiller book before, so this was something kind of new to me. It's not usually the genre I go for, but it was a fun book to read. 

Sadie is... well, she's kind of nosy... but not in a bad way, if that makes any sense. Her personality is a complete 180 from mine, so it wasn't easy to relate to her, but I loved how much importance she put on family and friend relationships. 

The mystery kept me guessing right up until the end, and the text interactions Sadie had with her husband while she was sleuthing cracked me up. I look forward to trying some of the recipes from this book as the Christmas season approaches.

Andrea's Review:

It's been five years since the last book in this series was published, but The Candy Cane Caper is said to be a standalone cozy, culinary mystery. Although reading the other books would give you some good backstory on Sadie, I do think this works as a standalone. Yes, I've read all of the other books, but it has been years and I didn't feel lost or like I needed to go back to get a refresher on anything. It was a fast, entertaining read, and one that I recommended for my book club next month. I'm pretty excited to make and serve some of the delicious sounding recipes from the book to go along with our evening.

One of the aspects that I enjoy about this story is that Sadie seems like an unlikely candidate for solving mysteries (especially if you haven't read the other books). Yes, some older women fall into the nosy category, but it paints a funny picture imagining her sneaking around the nursing home and picking locks. I got a kick out of Sadie's husband telling her not to break the law. Sadie's motivation comes from helping her family and/or friends, thus making her escapades noble causes.

Tarah's Review:

I don't think I've ever tried any recipe from a novel before, but I'm actually kinda excited to try some of these. Some of the cookies sounded really good, and fairly easy. Although I'm not a baker, at all, so we will have to see if they actually turn out.

Sadie cracks me up. I haven't read all of her books, but I have read enough not to be lost with all the different characters and basic storyline. I definitely wouldn't suggest starting with this book, which I think is fairly obvious, but just in case it isn't, don't start with this book.

I will admit I was hoping for a little more from Pete, but I did really enjoy the text messages, and the last couple chapters with him in it. He is definitely a grounding force for Sadie, who frankly needs it.
I enjoyed the mystery, the different minor characters, and especially the focus on the family. That was pretty refreshing.

This was a fun quick read that I would recommend.


Title: The Candy Cane Caper
Author: Josi S. Kilpack
Publisher: Shadow Mountain 
Published: October 2019
ISBN: 162972601X
Source: Review copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book

Book Review: Diamond in the Rough by Jen Turano

 

Book Description:

When Miss Poppy Garrison accepts her grandmother's offer of financial help for her family in exchange for Poppy joining the New York social season, she quickly realizes she is far less equipped to mingle with the New York Four Hundred than even she knew. As she becomes embroiled in one hilarious fiasco after another, becoming the diamond of the first water her grandmother longs her to be looks more impossible by the day.

Reginald Blackburn, second son of a duke, is in New York to help his cousin find an American heiress who can help save his family's estate. But when his very proper British manners lead Poppy's grandmother to request he teach etiquette to Poppy, he quickly finds himself in for much more than he bargained for.

And while they couldn't be more opposite, Reginald and Poppy just might find they have more to teach each other than they ever could have expected.

Tarah's Review:

This Jen Turano book had a slightly different feel than her other ones. To me, it seemed like it wasn't as over the top as her other novels have been. That doesn't mean it wasn't a fun read, but it did seem a little more believable. There were no over the top animals (there were quite a few animals, but they all behaved like real animals) and the leading male, Reginald, was actually pretty normal too. Not too clueless, not too set in his ways, just a normal British Aristocrat (because I know so many of those). The situations that Poppy found herself in, while crazy, weren't over the top. 

Andrea's Review

I went into this book thinking it was going to be like the many Regency novels I've read, and though it has some similarities with the upper class of society it was much more modern. And it should be, as the Regency era only lasted from 1811-1820 (thank you Wikipedia) and this takes place in 1885. So, while I have probably miscategorized many books as being Regency novels when they are, in fact, Victorian, one need not get hung up on the details of what to call what era. The point is that the social setting is among the wealthiest and "important" people in New York, and the main character, Poppy, is forced to socialize among them in order to save her family financially.

There is a bit of a My Fair Lady feel to Poppy being taught etiquette by Reginald Blackburn. The story was pretty lighthearted even throughout the crazy circumstances that came about. I didn't develop deep connections to the characters, but they were likable, and it was an entertaining read.

Title: Diamond in the Rough
Author: Jen Turano
Publisher: Bethany House
Published: September 2019
ISBN: 0764231685
Source: eCopies from NetGalley. All opinions express are our own.

Purchase: Amazon

Blog Tour: Glass Slippers, Ever After, and Me by Julie Wright

 Glass Slippers, Ever After, and Me by Julie Wright

Book Description:

Can the fairy tale bring Charlotte the happiness she’s looking for, or was he always there to begin with?

A modern, reimagined Cinderella story.

When aspiring author Charlotte Kingsley finally gets published, she thinks all her dreams have come true. But the trouble begins when her publicity firm reinvents her quirky online presence into a perfectly curated dream life. Gone are the days of sweatpant posts and ice cream binges with her best friend, Anders, replaced instead with beautiful clothes, orchestrated selfies, and no boyfriend. Only, that carefully curated fairy tale life is ruining her self-esteem and making her feel like a fraud.

When a bestselling author takes Charlotte under her wing—almost like a fairy godmother—she helps Charlotte see the beautiful person she already is and the worth of being authentic. But is it too late to save her relationship with Anders? The clock is quickly ticking towards midnight, and Charlotte must decide between her fairy tale life and the man she loves, before he's gone forever.

Rorie's Review:

This story drew me in immediately. How can it not when it starts out with "My fairy godmother was all talk and no action?" Lettie is quirky, kind of a hot mess, and was so much fun to get to know. I'm always a sucker for best friend romances, so this was right up my alley. It was fun watching her relationship with Anders develop into something more, although it happened a lot quicker than I thought it would. It wasn't insta-romance, by any means, it just happened much earlier in the story than I originally thought it would. 

I must admit, I was kinda horrified to read about all the things her publicist was expecting her to do. Is that normal for authors? I sincerely hope not, because that would be awful. 

This is one of those stories that I stayed up way too late reading, and that's always a sign that I loved it. I highly recommend it.

Tarah's Review:

I'm a sucker for fairy tales, even modern re imagined ones. And while I think the Cinderella Fairy Tale is overdone, I did thoroughly enjoy this take of Glass Slippers, Ever After, and Me. I found the characters to be fun and real (towards the end in regards to Lettie's mother). I liked the different layers of each character, and more than that, I liked that Lettie grew into herself. She discovered that she wasn't the same as she was in the beginning of the book, and she wasn't the person the publicist made her into. I liked that she had to figure out who she really was, and which of those things were a lie.

I did feel like the story went super fast, and then just kinda resolved before I was ready for it too. It felt like build up, build up, build up, and then a really quick resolution. However, this could be because I kept waiting for the proverbial shoe to drop, and it never really did until the end. I thought things were going to get super awkward with her publicist long before it never really did. I'm super sensitive to awkwardness in my books, and I just kept waiting for that, and since it never really happened maybe that's why it seemed a little quick for me. 

It is a cute read though, and I will reread it again, and I'll definitely listen to it on audio book if they come out with that.
Andrea's Review:

I love the Proper Romance line from Shadow Mountain and really enjoyed this modern-day retelling of Cinderella by Julie Wright. It was a fast read and one that I can see myself reading again (I hope an audio version will be available soon). The cover is eye-catching, and the characters are very likable.

I liked the big contrast between Letti's dream and the realization of the dream. The grass is always greener on the other side, and it's good to take a step back every once in awhile to appreciate what we have. There were also some great lessons on judging and the masks we wear. Are we being our authentic selves?

Anders was such a great guy. I felt for him quite a bit during the story, and was happy that at the end of it all he got to be happy too.

Title: Glass Slippers, Ever After, and Me
Author: Julie Wright
Publisher: Shadow Mountain 
Published: October 2019
ISBN: 1629726079
Source: Review copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.
Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book

Blog Tour: Mistaken Reality by Traci Hunter Abramson

Book Description:

Hadley Baker can't believe her boyfriend finally invited her on a fancy hotel dinner date only to break up with her in public. Even more unbelievable is the moment FBI Agent JD Byers finds her crying in the women's restroom and demands she evacuate. Seconds after JD ushers Hadley outside, an explosion shatters the building. Could her life be any more disastrous?

JD didn't anticipate seeing Hadley, the beautiful schoolteacher, again after he saved her from the hotel attack. But soon after her ex-boyfriend became a lead suspect in the hotel bombing case, the man turned up dead—and now it seems that Hadley herself is a target. Determined to keep her safe, JD shelters Hadley as they join forces to put together the pieces of the perplexing case. When they discover the horrifying truth behind her ex-boyfriend's nefarious work, Hadley realizes her life is far from the only one being threatened. Countless others are in danger, and she and JD might hold the key to saving them.

Rorie's Review:

Over the last few years, I've become involved with an organization called Operation Underground Railroad (O.U.R.) Before learning about this organization, I really never even thought about human trafficking. It has been so eye-opening, learning just how prevalent it is in our world. This story really hit close to home because of that knowledge.

The story was a little choppy in some parts, but by the climax, I was almost on the edge of my seat, all of my muscles tensed up, hoping that the good guys would come out on top. Abramson has a talent for drawing the reader in and taking them on quite the adventure. 

I like how the author worked several familiar characters from the Guardians and the Saint Squad into this story. I always enjoy it when "old friends" show up in new stories. I'm hoping to see JD, Hadley, Kelsey and Noah show up in future stories as well, so I can continue to get to know them better. As always, I look forward to reading whatever Abramson comes up with next.

Tarah's Review:

This book caught my attention right away, and kept me reading until I was done. I will admit I was a little concerned when Kelsey and Noah showed up (but only because I thought their book was a little slow), but everything flowed really well for me. Normally when the perspective changes from the main characters I feel like it takes away from main story and I can't wait to get back to the main characters, but this one was incredibly well done and I didn't feel like anything was taken away from the story. It actually made me want to go back and reread some of the stories in the other series. I was also kept wondering if one of the characters was the bad guy or not. That was a fun change.

Human trafficking isn't something I thought a lot about, but recently I've read multiple books with this as a topic in it. This tells me that this is a problem that is more prevalent than I was aware of, and it makes me wonder what I can do to not only be aware, but to help.

This was definitely a book I will be rereading again and again, and one that I will definitely recommend as one of Abramson's best. Definitely in her top 10.

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Author Website:
www.traciabramson.com

Title: Mistaken Reality
Author: Traci Hunter Abramson

Publisher: Covenant
Published: October 2019
ISBN: 1524409413
Source: We received copies from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Blog Tour: Smarter Than a Monster by Brandon Mull

Book Description:

Little kids have big fears, which they often imagine to be scary creatures, like monsters. In the new picture book, Smarter Than a Monster, New York Times best-selling author Brandon Mull uses humor and a fantastical imagination to uncover the truth about monsters while guiding young readers to good habits that can last a lifetime.

Paired with whimsical monster illustrations, Mull s text explains how knowing Monster Facts can help kids outwit them. Want to avoid monsters? Fact: Monsters love dirt and grime, so when faced with two kids, the monster will choose the dirty one every time. And if toys and clothes are all over the floor, you may get ambushed by a mess-loving monster. Survival Tip: Take baths and keep your room clean.

Outsmarting a monster is easy when kids learn secret monster strategies, like why it s better to sleep in their own bed when they feel afraid. Fact: Monsters are clever predators who hide under parents beds where nobody ever thinks to check. Moreover, monsters leave kids alone when they are in their own beds.

There is, of course, a time when being with monsters can be perfectly safe: Halloween. Dressing up like a monster is a good form of camouflage. Monsters think Halloween is a big parade in their honor, so mix it up with the monsters and enjoy the day!

From playtime to bedtime, Brandon Mull will arm young readers with practical advice in this innovative and imaginative parenting tool that teaches common sense and positive and healthy habits.

Rorie's Review:

My older boys love all of the series by this author, so I thought it would be fun to try this book of his geared towards younger kids. It did not disappoint. As soon as I got it in the mail, my younger two confiscated it and spent the next few days reading and re-reading it. The monster story line is humorous and the illustrations are engaging. I even saw my older two reading it. My kids are almost out of the picture book phase, but I'm glad we got this one. I'm sure it will be read over and over again.

Tarah's Review:

As a parent I really appreciated this book, and what the author was trying to do with kids and monsters. My favorite page is where it talks about if you keep your room clean it is less likely to have monsters because there is no where for them to hide. He says, "Monsters love to hide in a messy room. If there are toys and clothes all over the floor, you are in a perfect position to be ambushed by a monster."  Isn't that great? Love that as a parent.
The pictures are bright and colorful, and my kids thought the book was funny and clever. My littlest enjoyed picking our her favorite monster and making everyone guess which one it was. I'm even thinking about using this in Storytime.

About the Author:

Brandon Mull is the #1 New York Times best-selling author of the Fablehaven, Beyonders, and Five Kingdoms series. A kinetic thinker, Brandon enjoys bouncy balls, squeezable stress toys, and popping bubble wrap. He lives in Utah in a happy little valley near the mouth of a canyon with his four children and a dog named Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Brandon loves meeting his readers and hearing about their experiences with his books.

www.brandonmull.com  Follow the author on Instagram @writerbrandon and Facebook @authorbrandonmull 

About the Illustrator:

Mike Walton has been a professional illustrator for more than twenty years. He earned his B.A. in Illustration from art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA. He’s worked in animation, comic books, web comics, trading cards, and all manner of media throughout his career. Smarter Than a Monster is his debut children’s book. He currently resides in Southern California and considers himself a nerd who loves visiting Disneyland attending the San Diego Comic Con.

 Title: Smarter Than a Monster
Author: Brandon Mull

Illustrator: Mike Walton 

Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Published: October 2019
ISBN: 1629726109
Source: We received copies from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Purchase: Amazon  Deseret Book