An Uncommon Grace

An Uncommon Grace: A Novel by Serena B. Miller

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Paperback, 352 pages
Published April 3rd 2012 by Howard Books
ISBN 1451660308

When Grace returned home from being stationed in Afghanistan, her only concern was taking care of her ailing grandmother. But, when her Amish neighbor winds up on her door step in a panic, her life slowly begins to change.

I just have to say, along with Grace, I don't quite understand the Swartzentruber Amish. But, I did love all the details that Serena gave in this book regarding their beliefs. The back and forth between Grace and Levi was really quite interesting. Of course, that wasn't the only great part of the book, there was also a bit of humor and mystery involved in the story as well. I knew something wasn't quite right and I loved how it was an underlying suspense throughout the book. Oh, and the humor, gotta love Grace's grandmother Elizabeth. During one scene Grace is trying to get her grandmother to rest and take a nap as she just had heart surgery. Elizabeth doesn't feel she needs a nap and tells Grace, "I didn't make you take naps!" hahahahaha, I loved it!

I must say too, I loved Serena's Author's notes from the Amish community. What a great touch to an already fabulous book! I highly recommend this book for humor, suspense, and faith!

I was graciously provided a free digital copy of this book from Simon & Schuster in partnership with NetGalley to review it. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own.

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The Summer Garden

The Summer Garden by Sherryl Woods

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Paperback, 384 pages
Published January 31st 2012 by Mira
ISBN 0778313093
series: Chesapeake Shores #9

When Luke O'Brien visited Ireland for Christmas, he was immediately taken by the maddening Moira. Since arriving back in Chesapeake Shores, he is determined to put his research to use and open an Irish pub. And of course, being an O'Brien, he will accept nothing less than success. On a surprise visit to Chesapeake Shores with her granddad, Moira soon learns that her dream of happily ever after may have to be put on hold for an undetermined amount of time. But, is she willing to wait?

I'm not quite sure what didn't capture me with this one as much as the others in the series, it was still a great read, but just a little less so than the others. I actually felt bad for Luke. I mean, we tell men all the time they need to speak their feelings and not bottle everything up. Well, he did, he very plainly told Moira that he wanted to wait for the "next step" in their relationship because he was trying to get his pub off the ground. I would much rather a man tell me that he couldn't focus the attention required on a relationship than to pretend he could then leave me feel left out or forgotten about. So, I felt Moira was being a little selfish wanting it her way. However, I totally understood where she was coming from. Sometimes though, love just doesn't happen how we want it to, but it makes it no less special.

With this being the last story of the O'Brien family, I'm a little saddened. It's like saying goodbye to some of my family. When I read the Chesapeake Shore series, I always feel like part of the family. The O'Brien clan is such a close knit family, looking out for each other, covering each other's backs, and being a strong support system for one another. "In this family we pull together in a crisis, no matter what kind it is." Who doesn't want a family like that? (Ok, well, maybe without all the meddling.)

This book received the "Speak no evil smiley" for cuss words, honestly, I think there was two or three, and they were all on one page. This book received the "See no evil smiley" for premarital sexual content, no explicit sexual acts were described in detail.

I was graciously provided a free digital copy of this book from Harlequin in partnership with NetGalley to review it. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own.

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Thought Provoking Sayings

Circle of Life

At age 4.....success is...not peeing in your pants.

At age 12...success is...having friends.

At age 16...success is...having a driver's license.

At age 25...success is...having sex when married.

At age 35...success is...having money.

At age 50...success is...having money.

At age 60...success is...having sex when married.

At age 70...success is...having a driver's licence.

At age 75...success is...having friends.

At age 80...success is...not peeing in your pants.

Love Finds a Way

Love Finds a Way: 3 Modern Romances Make Falling in Love Simple and Sweet by Wanda E. Brunstetter

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Paperback, 288 pages
Published January 3rd 2012 by Barbour Publishing, Inc.
ISBN 1616266708

Three short and sweet love stories in one! Lorna heads back to college to finally fulfill her dreams with no intentions of looking for love. But, when Evan shows up and is determined to win her affections, Lorna doesn't stand a chance. In the second novella, Sheila is determined to find her grandmother's old antique doll. In the process a very determined antique store owner refuses to let her down and continues to search for the doll until he finds it or finds love. The third charming little story is of Wendy who works and then goes home to take care of her dad, nothing else. Can her matchmaking dad help Wendy find love or will is antics make Wendy more determined to stay single.

What I really liked about these three stories was that each girl was trying to overcome a hurt and knew they wouldn't be able to do it without God's love. Lorna was heartbroken when her husband died much too young and she didn't want to marry again and dishonor her in-laws. Sheila was so caught up in things, that she forgot there's more to life. And Wendy, well she was hurt once and refused to be hurt again so she shut every man in her life out except her dad. All of them were having problems that needed God's healing touch. I loved how Wanda was able to weave God's message into these stories and I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to take a break from reading 400 page novels. I LOVED reading my autographed copy that I won through Wanda's website! :D

You know what I find funny about short stories? Everyone always wishes there was more or they criticize love not moving that fast and the story being unrealistic. Not everyone plays hard to get for years on end and then finally marries. Some actually do fall in love at first site and their story seems almost too good to be true, but honestly, it does happen. I've lived love at first sight, so to me these three simple and sweet stories reminds me of my husband and I.

I was graciously provided a free digital copy of this book from Barbour Publishing in partnership with NetGalley to review it. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own.

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Love Lifted Me

Love Lifted Me by Sara Evans

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hardcover, 304 pages
Published January 3rd 2012 by Thomas Nelson Publishers
ISBN 1595544917

Goodreads synopsis: Jade Benson embraces unexpected motherhood when her husband Max gains custody of his young son. As she and Max work out their newly formed family, an invitation to coach Texas high school football sends them on a journey. Then a stranger reveals a painful secret, and Jade faces her hardest challenge yet. When she surrenders her heart to God and to her husband, Jade discovers the joy of love lifting her above her fears. (I couldn't find a better way to say it.)

After reading "Softly and Tenderly" I knew there was no way I was going to miss this next one in the series. I was not disappointed with "Love Lifted Me." I was so inspired by Jade's determination. Her support for her husband, Max, was touching and the way she doted over a boy that was not hers, but her husband's was nothing less than amazing. I loved how the relationship was written so real. When Max came back from rehab, it wasn't an immediate "we're good now." No, it was a slow and steady walk for both Max and Jade. At times there was trust issues, but Max didn't get upset with Jade. He knew he messed up and it would take time. I loved that realness!

And you know so many times, we go on a journey that we are sure the Lord has put us on only to get to a certain point and think "Did I do the wrong thing?" I will admit, it's happened to me quite often. Which is why I liked this story so much. We all go through those times and to watch Max and Jade go through those same concerns was reassuring.

One last thing, I have to throw a shout out to the characters of Brenda and Bit. My heavens, what a pair. Had me laughing! "Just when he was starting to wonder...God sent a booster party and a rocking band." Ok, ok, enough from me, just go read this book!!

I was graciously provided a free digital copy of this book from Thomas Nelson in partnership with NetGalley to review it. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own.

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A Texan's Honor

A Texan's Honor by Shelley Gray

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Paperback, 320 pages
Published March 1st 2012 by Abingdon Press
ISBN 1426714637
series: Heart of a Hero #2

During a train robbery, Jamilyn is one of the hostages held captive by the infamous Walton Gang. But, when Will McMillan, member of the Walton Gang, sees the situation getting out of control he realizes he must save this innocent woman. By saving her, he could risk his job, his reputation, and possibly his life.

This is the first time in a long time that I read two books in a series back-to-back. I almost wished there was a little more connection between the two. However, this book was still a great read. Shelley did a great job once again of setting the time period with all her descriptions of the towns, the rooms, habits, and the clothing style. At times, I would just close my eyes and take a look around town. Wonderful! I'm not a huge historical fiction reader, but this one was written very well and kept my attention.

I can't quite put my finger on why this one didn't quite seem as exciting as the first one in the series. The only thing I can think of is that I would have really loved to see more of Scout. I was almost rooting for him more so than Will and Jamilyn. I don't know, I like to see bad guys restored. I would have loved to see Scout sort through all his "baggage." All in all, a very good read and I would definitely recommend it!

I was graciously provided a free digital copy of this book from Abingdon Press in partnership with NetGalley to review it. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own.

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Smart Stocking Tips

Trying to stock up your pantry but don't have a ton of money to do it? Here is a list of of items that are typically on sale in April.

• Soy Products (milk, burgers, tofu, and bars)
• Hams 

(Info provided by Arm-n-Hammer)

A Texan's Promise

A Texan's Promise by Shelley Gray

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Paperback, 350 pages
Published October 1st 2011 by Abingdon Press
ISBN 1426714599
series: Heart of a Hero #1

When Clayton finds Vanessa crying one night, he begins to console her only to find out that Vanessa's stepfather took liberties with her that were not his to take. Clayton packs her things and they head west. Along the way though, they quickly discover that there's more between them than friendship. But, with her stepfather on their tail, the elements of nature, and heading through Indian territory, their trek is far from easy. Will Clayton be able to keep his promise to Vanessa's father and keep her safe or will her stepfather catch up and declare her his?

I honestly don't even know where to begin with this one, except with WOW! I am not a huge historical fiction person, but I loved this one! I felt Shelley did a great job weaving together a small touch of the history, a small touch of the western feel, a touch of the "bad" guy, and of course the romance was fabulous as well! At times I could feel myself sitting in a small western town, seeing the sights, smelling the air, and enjoying the lively conversations. I don't normally get so wrapped up in these type books, but this one caught me hook, line, and sinker!!

I love reading Shelley's Amish fiction books and was pleasantly surprised to find this one just as exciting! From the beginning pages until the end, I had a hard time putting down this book. I know, I know, everyone always says the same thing when it comes to western, history, romance books, you always know what's going to happen at the end. But, you know what? I enjoy the journey to the end because it is always different! Fantastic work Shelley!!

I was graciously provided a free digital copy of this book from Abingdon Press in partnership with NetGalley to review it. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own.

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A Perfect Square

A Perfect Square by Vannetta Chapman

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Paperback, 352 pages
Published March 31st 2012 by Zondervan
ISBN 0310330440
series: Shipshewana Amish Mystery #2

When a girl is found dead floating in a local Amish man's pond, the small town of Shipshewana is turned upside down. The main suspect? An Amish man, Reuben Fisher who refuses to give any information to the police, his attorney, or his friends. Deborah is certain Reuben didn't commit murder, but how can she convince everyone else when Reuben won't divulge even the smallest bit of information.

I have to say, I enjoyed this one much more than the first one. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed the first one A LOT, but was a little upset by the "who dunnit?" But this one, kept me guessing and playing out all scenarios with various characters. At some points, I was ready to reach into the book and ring Reuben's neck for not talking! I loved the flashback aspect throughout the entire story. Many times, the victim is forgotten, but in this one, she felt very much alive throughout the entire story. I really enjoyed this one and my only disappointment (very minor one) would be that the "boss" aspect didn't carry over into this book.

Great job Vannetta and I am looking forward to the next one already!!

I was graciously provided a free digital copy of this book from Zondervan in partnership with NetGalley to review it. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own.

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Recipe of the Month

I thought I'd try something new with this. I love to share recipes, try new ones, and hear other's "substitutes" in recipes. I will share a recipe with you and if you make this recipe already, will you share what you do differently with yours?

Time for some fresh, colorful recipes for one of the most beautifully colored months of the year. Why not try mixing those fresh vegetables in with some pasta? This has become one of my most favorite recipes as it combines fresh vegetables, some which come from my garden, and is one of the healthier dishes I know how to make. (Don't be swayed by the lengthy list, many are common pantry ingredients!)

Turkey Bow-tie Skillet:


1/2 pound ground turkey breast
1 1/2 teaspoons vegetable oil
3/4 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1 garlic clove, minced
1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth
2 cups uncooked bow tie pasta
1 (14.5 ounce) can stewed tomatoes
1 tablespoon vinegar
3/4 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt (optional)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley


In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown turkey in oil.
Add celery, onion, green pepper and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender. Remove the turkey and vegetables with a slotted spoon and keep warm.
Add broth to the pan; bring to a boil. Add pasta; cook for 10 minutes or until tender.
Reduce heat; stir in the tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, chili powder, garlic salt if desired and turkey mixture. Simmer for 10 minutes or until heated through. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley. 

ENJOY! ☺

Hide in Plain Sight

Hide In Plain Sight by Marta Perry

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mass Market Paperback, 250 pages
Published August 7th 2007 by Steeple Hill
ISBN 0373442556
series: The Three Sisters Inn #1, Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense #65

Unable to leave her family during their time of need, Andrea leaves big city life and heads to Amish country to help her grandmother turn her old house into a bed and breakfast. But, when she arrives not only does she realize her grandmother's financial situation is worse than she thought, she also gets caught up in a series of life-threatening incidents.

This was one of the first books I downloaded in Kindle format and it was a freebie. Why it took me so long to read, I have no idea! I love anything Amish and I love a good mystery! I was so intrigued by Andrea's determination to help her grandmother. I also enjoyed watching Andrea grow closer to God again. This is one of those mysteries that I can't say I really thought of anyone in particular that would have been the culprit. I think all the characters seemed very level and not a one of them had a "strong" enough reason for causing the "accidents." To me, that says a lot about Marta. Sometimes, the author tries to divert so much attention away from the "real" culprit that they overdo it and go to extremes to make someone else look like the bad guy. Great job Marta on making me really think about who did it! I really did not see that one coming!


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Need a major purchase?

Are you going to be buying a major purchase this year? If you are, then here's what to buy this month. These are items that are normally on sale in April.

• Digital Cameras
• Warm-weather Clothes

(Info. from All You Magazine)