Five stars for Kathleen Fuller's Faithful to Laura
937728
Faithful to Laura  is book two in the Middlefield Family series.

Young, Amish and angry, Laura Stutzman has been disfigured by flying glass! The man she loved, Mark King,  betrayed her and started a fire, hoping to kill Laura in the blaze. She leaves her home in Tennessee for Middlefield, Ohio to try to regain her life and find work to pay off the debt left when her love stole her parent's life savings.

She finds a job at a furniture store as an office worker and begins her battle, to overcome her feelings of worthlessness and fear.

There she meets Sawyer Thompson, adopted into an Amish family, but has not joined the Amish. He too fights a battle, he was abandoned as a child after the death of his parents, mistreated and abused in foster care.

Both have much to overcome and forgive. Complications arise in a budding attraction and Sawyer's discovery of a grandmother he did not know existed. She wants to take him back to New York and teach him the family business.

The book is filled with interesting scenes, probable possibilities and twists that keep the readier in suspense.

Can Laura and Sawyer find a way to solve their problems? Will Sawyer stay outside the Amish faith, and can Laura reconcile with her need to forgive?
4438475
Oh my word Kathleen Fuller is AMAZING!

Up to now, the only books of hers that I have read and reviewed have been short novellas inside collaborations/ novella collections and they simply did not prepare me for the awesomeness of her writing!

WOW!
And I mean WOW!

I refuse to spoil this book for you but I will tell you that A Faith of Her Own is most unlike any other story of its kind that I have read.

Most authors who write about a young person potentially leaving the Amish community write from the perspective that it would simply be the end of the world or from the perspective that they really have no other options.

Kathleen Fuller doesnt do that. She comes at the situation from so many angles, it has a ring of truth to it that is almost shocking.

This is a book that ANYONE who enjoys Amish fiction should DEFINITELY read!

And I really really hope the A Middlefield Amish Novel means there will be sequels to come! There are SO many characters I am dying to know more about not just the two main ones  and that may not be different from other books of its kind but it is really exciting!

Review  JCMorrows 2015
889594
The Mistress of Tall Acre is an amazing new book by Laura Frantz that gives me a "happy heart". One of the reasons I loved this book is because this is the first book where one of the primary characters is a child, or rather a little girl named Lily Cate. I found that this brought a freshness and lightness to many of the scenes throughout the book.  Up until now my favorite Laura Frantz couple was either Ellie and Jack from Loves Awakening or Morrow and Red Coat from Courting Morrow Little.  But I think they have a little competition as my favorite couples because now Ive met Sophie and Seamus!  The setting is also a little different from her other books since this one is set in the aftermath of the American Revolution.

Ive been an avid reader of Laura Frantzs books for a little more than a year now.  But The Mistress of Tall Acre is the first one where I actually got to wait eagerly for the release date with all her other faithful readers!  As with all of her other books, this one is centered around faith.  Its because of that faith that her characters are so strong and continue to hold onto hope when everything seems to be against them.  Yes, I adore the tender love story that unfolds between Sophie and Seamus.  I love the tender moments with Lily Cate.  But at the heart of the book is a deep and abiding faith in the Lord that weathers every storm that comes their way.  Because of that, the characters have so much depth and also, the happy ending is much sweeter because of the trials that they face.  I hope you get a chance to read this tenderhearted story.

Sincere thanks to Revell and Laura Frantz for a complimentary review copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
2412562
Letters to Katie," A Middlefield Family novel,  is the latest Amish novel written by Kathleen Fuller and this book in a winner!

It is past time for Katie to be married, and most of her friends are already married, but she is in love Johnny, who does not seem to return her love. Then a new young man appears on the scene and Katie wonders if she should  accept his attention, but he abruptly leaves town and begins writing to her. Johnny has his own distractions with deciding to buy his own farm without his father's approval and struggles to make his own way and find himself.  Then a sudden illness leads them both realize they must make their own decision about the future. Their problems and discontent with life leads both of them on a search for God.  There are several other characters and story lines which keep you reading.

I enjoyed this book and the way several people from outside their community affect their lives. I always enjoy reading about someone's search for God, particularly the prayers and scriptures that leads them to making the right decisions. There are quite a few characters to keep up with which could be confusing - but at the same time thry add interest to the story.  I enjoyed seeing how relationships developed and the different ways people come to a decision on moving forward in their life.  If you are looking for inspiration and encouragement, give this a read.

This book was provided by Booksneeze for my review at no charge.  No positive review was required.  The opinions are my own.

<a href="[...]"></a>
4604032
The Lacemaker. The title and cover of this book drew me in before I even knew anything about the story line. Being a lover of historical fiction and a huge fan of this author, I knew I could count on a beautifully written and true account of this time period in America's fight for freedom and independence. Simply put, Laura writes from the heart in the language of the time and place, making you feel as though you are actually part of the story....and to me that is such a gift.

Lady Elisabeth Lawson finds herself alone and left with nothing after suddenly betrayed and abandoned by both her own father, the British lieutenant governor of the Virginia Colony, and Miles Cullen Roth, the man of her father's choosing whom she was soon to wed. Now alone but for her maid, she must find a way to provide for herself and make her own way in Williamburg, Virginia Colony. Always the dutiful and obedient daughter, she must now decide for herself where she will stand in the political conflict between the British and the American patriots, and begin to follow the convictions of her own heart.

Suspected of being a Patriot Spy, Noble Rynallt (ah...be still my heart), comes to Elisabeth's rescue on more than one occasion. They find themselves drawn together more and more in the coming days. Noble even provides shelter for Elisabeth at his country estate as she tries to come to terms with her suddenly-changed life. Secretly smitten with each other, they join forces for the patriot cause and embark on a journey fraught with much danger and even more betrayal, both knowing that either or both of them could lose their lives at any time. A beautiful, sometimes heart-wrenching, love story is the icing on the cake to this novel, and an ending that will satisfy even the most die-hard romantics!

I loved it! I loved the way Liberty and Noble were with each other. I loved that Elisabeth made the best of what came her way, taking nothing and no one for granted. I loved their enduring faith in God and each other. I loved how Noble was always caring and selfless in everything he did. How he looked after his estate, all the dependencies, and his staff. I loved reading about Colonial Williamsburg, a place I have yet to visit. And I love how Laura Frantz can create such a beautiful and engaging story out of such a hard fought and painful time in our American history.

**I received an advance copy of this book from Baker Publishing for a fair and honest review.
889155
Amish fiction is one of my favorite genres, and I've read hundreds of Amish stories.  There are several authors I have come to trust, and I can be pretty sure I'm going to enjoy whatever books they write.  Some of the stories, though, stand out above and beyond the others.

Kathleen Fuller's A Faith of Her Own is one of those standouts.  Kathleen tells Anna Mae's and Jeremiah's story in a way that is gentle and touching.  The questions and struggles are very realistic and very deep.  There are issues of deep hurts that require healing and forgiveness.  Difficult decisions with long-reaching consequences have to be made.  And this is definitely a story that keeps you guessing about the resolution all the way to the very last pages.

But running through every one of those challenges is an overarching theme of a personal, guiding faith in God, a kind of faith that requires patience and understanding rather than rash judgments and quick decisions.  Anna Mae, Jeremiah, and the other characters in this story draw you into their lives and provide opportunities for you to share in their joys and their heartaches as they each find their own answers.

Fans of great Amish fiction should definitely enjoy visiting Middlefield in A Faith of Her Own.  Thanks to Kathleen for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
2779245
OH THE FEELS!!! Laura Ward does it again! Everytime I get finished reading one of Laura's books I have a new found couple I've grown to love, and Daisy & Jon are no exception. I really did loved the whole forbidden love thing with the older brother's best friend & little sister. But yet it's still so sweet & innocent. I don't read many actual books these days, mostly I listen to audios because I have such a long commute. However, I am always eager to curl up with Laura's latest release. And she really never disappoints.

If you love a book full of feels then look no further. One of my absolute favorite things about this series is every book in it has its own set of feels that are equally amazing. If your looking for a great book to snuggle up with & not put down this is for you. Another 5 star novel from Laura Ward.
320380
I fell more in love with the characters in this book with every word.  It seemed as though Tess and Laura could have been a part of my circle of friends and I could feel the heartache and joys with them.  Laura's history and emotional trauma created a depth to this story, and to Tess and Laura's relationship, that made this another book by Harper Bliss that I could not put down.
3638821
This book is amazing.  It is easy to read and very interesting.  Laura comes through as someone you would like to know.  What a wonderful life she has had.  She is a true family mom, grandmother, daughter and especially wife.
609498
Wow!  Words from the Heart is now my favorite book in Kathleen Fuller's An Amish Letters series.  I just love Aunt Cevilla with all of her meddlesome ways.  You just never know what she'll do next to pull her nephew, Noah, and Ivy together.  I love how the letters again in this series bring people together.  The world needs more letter writing!  This book can be read as a stand alone novel, but I'd vote for you to start at the beginning of the series.  You won't be disappointed with Kathleen Fuller's writing in this series.
4628233
Another Burgundian delight is this latest memoir from Laura Bradbury. Having taken much delight in her first two books filled with tales from the Cot d'Or in Burgundy and having the particular treat of reflecting on our own visit to her family home in Villiers la Faye a few years ago, My wife and I were both heartened by Laura's latest twist on finding love for her future husband as she grew in a special love for this marvelous region in France. This is a great book to read in a quiet space with no interruptions. It's important to savor each chapter and chuckle in the quiet peace of your favorite easy chair. Laura, you are a masterful story teller. Keep them coming. We want more!!
1493565
I loved this book. I was so excited when I found out about it. And of course it was wonderful, as all Susan May Warren's books are. She just knows how to write characters and stories that touch your heart and resonate truth.

Each novella was fun, unique, and inspiring in it's own way, but what I liked about all of them was how strong the characters were. I liked the interplay between the characters. How they complemented and built each other up, and ultimately learned that their greatest strength lay in relying on God together.

This Little House of Mine is a pitch perfect story about faith, love, and answering God's call. I thought Ellen and Paul were absolutely adorable. I was so excited for the truths and love they were uncovering on their journey toward each other and what God had in store for them. I wanted to stand up and cheer at the end.

Measure of a Man seemed to be a little bit longer, it had some more depth and intrigue to it. The characters had a past, so their relationship was more about healing and learning to trust each other and stepping out in faith. I enjoyed how strong and secure Calli was. I really liked how she challenged Peter.

Proof of Your Love was so much fun for me. Yes, the mystery was chilling, and I was on the edge of my seat to find out who was behind it. But I enjoyed the way Justine and Patrick came together and interacted. They were so sweet and so much fun. Both Justine and Patrick struggle with letting go of their past and perceived expectations, and learning to embrace who God really created them to be. I think it's a struggle every Christian can relate to.

Each novella is sweet, romantic, and fun in it's own way. I felt like I came away from each story with a little bit of a faith boost, and a reminder of the hope we have (without being preached at.) I'm excited for the release of this book. Fans of Susan May Warren's will love it, and it's a great mix for those who haven't read her books before to try.

*I received an ARC of this title from the author in the exchange for my honest review.

www.wanderingthepages.tumblr.com
4958904
Having read all of Laura Griffin's other works I waited very impatiently for the release of her new novel featuring Sophie Barret and Jonah Macon.  It was worth the wait--I absolutely loved it, much as I have loved her others, and I finished it much too soon.
We first meet meet Sophie in "Untraceable" and Jonah in "Unforgiveable" and I was very pleased that they finally were able to tell their story. It is a good one with lots of fireworks, suspense and well thought out details (since it is loosely based on a school shooting which happened in the 1960's).
As with her other works, the most compelling thing for me are her characters; they are well actualized and (it seems to me) could step right off the page. I also always learn something new about the process of collecting and processing evidence (specifically DNA evidence) for use in court.
I don't want to spoil anyone's read so not many details other than "Snapped" holds together very well, Ms. Griffin takes us from the shooting through many twists and turns; Sophie is a witness but what has she really seen?, Jonah is her reluctant protector -- only because he is attracted to her, we get to visit with some favorite recurring characters and meet some new ones!
Run don't walk, you won't want to miss this one!!  5 stars!
1009130
Child of Mine
by David Lewis, Beverly Lewis

the story of Kelly Maines and Jack Livingstone
Bestselling Author Duo Delivers Heart-Stirring Drama
Jack Livingston has been raising his nine-year-old adopted niece, Natalie, since the accident that took her parents' lives. While he travels for work, Natalie is lovingly cared for by Laura Mast, an Amish nanny who loves her as her own.
Kelly Maines is nearing the end of her rope. Her baby was kidnapped, the apparent victim of a black market adoption ring, and for eight years, Kelly has tirelessly pursued every lead to its bitter end. Now, there's one last lead from a private investigator: Just a few miles away lives a girl who matches the profile. Could this, at long last, be her beloved child?
Desperately, Kelly initiates a "chance" meeting with Jack Livingston. It goes really well. So well, in fact, that Jack asks her out. One date leads to another, and before she can come clean with her original motives, Kelly realizes Jack is falling for her--and she for him.
Now how can she tell Jack why she's really here? And having gotten to know Natalie, what if she isn't her long-lost daughter, after all? This was all supposed to be so simple.
But nothing in Natalie's world is simple.
Can this be Kelly's beloved daughter?
where does Kelly  find here daughter?
can Jack risk his heart with Kelly ?
Will Jack and Kelly be more than friends?
who is Natalie's biological mother?
Child of Mine is a wonderful well written 5 stars book.
I am looking forward  to reading more books by Beverly Lewis and David Lewis.
The River
The Last Bride
(Home to Hickory Hollow, book 5)
The Love Letters
3846929
Laura Ingalls Wilder's books are some of the first I remember reading to myself. I have read them to classrooms of students, re-read them to myself, and read (and re-read them) to my own children.  Although it wasn't until I was an adult that I realized not everything in Wilder's books was factual, that has not deterred my interest in them.

Prairie Fires is the best combination of sharing details of Laura's life that are familiar to Little House readers and adding to them by providing historical details about the time and more background for what was happening in Laura's life.  Fraser has done her research (there is almost one hundred pages of end notes at the book's end) and provides a detailed picture of Laura's life. Although this book is not a fast read, it is entirely absorbing.

The author doesn't stop at writing about Laura. Rose Wilder Lane is also a focus of this book, and although I have read some things about her, I was certainly not as familiar with her as I was with Laura. I enjoyed learning more about Laura's daughter, even though I didn't find her particularly likable.

Prairie Fires is a fantastic book for fans of Laura Ingalls Wilder who want to know more about this beloved author.
209611
I listened to Govenor Huckabee interview Laura and Maurice , I was impressed with the story of the two of them.  Anyone who would go out of their way to help an 11 year old panhandler and keep in touch with him for years and give to him a different life deserves honorable mention.  Laura had an inner spirit of wanting and desiring to help make someones world better which she did in meeting and providing a better life for Mauirice.  He in turn wanted to turn his life from a drug life to a better one. I loved the brown bag and the dining room table stories.  Gives one a different perspective on life. My book club are reading it and some have said they could not put the book down as was my experience.  Thanks to Laura and Maurice for a great example of following and doing the desires of their heart.  We should have more Laura and Maurices out there in this wicked world
3502691
Alice Voorhies is one of the most loyal and devoted people I know when it comes to family and friends. It is only natural that she wrote two books that encompass her deep feelings about her lifetime experiences. Her Louisiana roots run deep and anyone who knows her well has heard the many stories about New Iberia, friends, family members and life growing up in Louisiana. I lived next door to Alice for nearly 7 years and witnessed firsthand her motivation to write after years of teaching teachers at the university level.  Through writing books, others have been able to discover her sharp wit, her clever knowledge base and her creative terminology used to describe her life.  This book is not only a pleasurable read but an open window into her true nature.