Spellbinding story with a lot of heart!
592365
While all Melissas books contain deep love, this book stands out as the one with the most heart. Truman Gritt is a man that faced down his demons and a prison sentence and rose from the ashes victorious. While he didn't escape unscathed, he didn't lose his ability to love and to love with everything he had. A protector to the core, he fights for everyone he loves. Gemmas heart rivals the size of Trumans. She takes Truman and his siblings into her heart and holds them close, completes them. Gemma and Truman come from opposite worlds, but together they make a family full of love, loyalty and heart. I laughed, I cried, I fell in love.
880540
This is the first book by Laura Elliot that I have read and it definitely will not be the last. This story absorbed me completely, so that, by the middle of the book I was living this tale, lost to the real world. The writing is so beautiful that I will reread this book just so I can celebrate every exquisitely constructed sentence. And what a story! It grabs hold of you from the first page, not letting go until the last. Forgiveness and betrayal, love and loss, courage and cowardice, a wide spectrum of human emotions are failings are covered in this fabulous book. The writing sparkles and shimmers like the lost bracelet, it burrows its way right into your heart. A beautiful story, written with heart. I will be recommending it to everyone.
793731
Do you ever get overwhelmed by feelings when you enter a completely new world while reading a book? One that's magical, fascinating and intriguing? This happend to me with The Traveling Man by Jane Harvey-Berrick. It was a magnificent story that took my breath away. I was reading it with a huge smile on my face and eyes full of wonderment. The carnival world has completely enchanted me. It was amazing how Jane managed to paint all these vivid pictures in my head with her words. It felt like I was in the middle of this story and not just a bystander.

Aimee Andersen has always believed in magic since she was a little girl. One day a carnival arrives at her hometown. Since it's her 10th birthday she insists on going there with her parents and sister. Never could have Aimee expected to make the acquaintance of a sweet and nice carnie boy named Kestrel Donohue who is going to become her best friend and confidante. Over the next 6 years that follow they will see each other every time the carnival is in town. During these short stays they will always spend time talking and looking for adventures. Their special friendship will develop into an innocent crush and later a deep and desperate love. Difficult life circumstances are going to tear them apart leaving them both broken-hearted. Eight years later they meet each other again by chance. They talk about the past and finally find out the truth - they have been betrayed by the people they trusted the most. Now it is up to them to rekindle the passion and love they once felt and still feel for each other. Kes asks Aimee to join him and the carnival for 7 weeks. Is she going to stay with him after that and become a traveling woman or is she going to return to her old boring life again?

There are not enough words to describe how much I've loved Kestrel and Aimee. I liked it that the author gave us glimpses of them as 10 year olds and teenagers. It was a pleasure to witness their transition from children to young adults, to see them becoming the people they are now - shaped by their upbringing and life experiences, the good and the bad ones. Kes was always an adventure and adrenaline seeking person. He loved the audience and the audience adored him. Kestrel was simply born to perform. His freedom was very important to him and he was proud of his lifestyle. Aimee has always felt different then the rest of her family. She was open-minded and ready to explore everything the world has to offer. She was like a caged bird longing for someone to finally set her free. That person was Kestrel! He was her happy place. With him she experienced magic and love. These two were simply destined for each other.

Kes and Aimee's story is extraordinary. I've never read a book about the carnival world before. I must confess that this lifestyle has always fascinated me. Those people are wanderers and free spirits. They spend months on the road and work very hard to earn money for their living. The result is the magic they create for the visitors - for adults and children alike. Unfortunately many people have lots of prejudices towards them. Those townies think that carnie folks are gypsies and scammers - people that can't be trusted. But instead of judging, one should rather have an open heart and mind towards an alternative lifestyle. Jane did an amazing research on this topic since everything she wrote about it felt very genuine to me.

I recommend this fantastic book from the bottom of my heart. 5 stars is simply not enough for this must-read! It is going to blow your mind and leave you begging for more. It ends with a huge cliffhanger and I can't wait to find out what happens next to Kestrel and Aimee. Jane, I bow to you!
4751129
This book was heart wrenching yet compelling in such an indescribable way. A truly mesmerizing tale of love, loss, and all that falls between. It shines a light on the love that draws one to their children and how we'd do anything for them as well as to protect them. This is truly a fantastic read and well worth it. It builds up to a point in the book where it becomes almost impossible to put down. Excellent story!
1323034
I found Heart Song to be an enchantingly magical and heart-stoppingly enthralling story of how love can bind, transform, and strengthen two people and even entire groups of people if given generously and guided with wisdom. What a beautiful example of how we should love and treat each other! While these characters were just as flawed as we are, their ultimate intentions were full of hope and promise for how they wanted to change the world around them. I wonder how our world would change if we had the same desire and heart that these amazing characters portrayed. Now only would people notice a change for good, but perhaps they would also be inspired to make the same change in their own life and therefore continue on a phenomenal wave of change.
Relena is a girl whose life is less then hopeful, but she has done all she can to focus on the good in her life like her best friend Danst. When fate pushes her into the arms of Marren, her heart song, she finds her life changing yet again but in a breathtaking way that she hopes will never end. Their strained friendship blossoms into a magnificent love that was of much more significance then Relana could have ever imagined. Marren tried to help Relena understand the importance of their union and their love, but even he was bound by rules of his fellow Ancients in order to satisfy their demands to prove that what these two had were real. Will brutal requirements and harsh misunderstandings cost Relena and Marren  everything that they have tried so hard to build, or will greater hopes and dreams destroy their love just as it begins to strengthen and bloom?
I couldn't help but fall in love with Relena and Marren. They were both looking for the other half of their soul, and they found it in each other. They loved each other with no reservation and worked hard to nurture that love into something more beautiful than they ever allowed themselves to hope for. Their relationship along with its hardships perfectly echoes what we see in our own world when other people and their plans get in the way of allowing their love to grow and transform into something that lasts a lifetime. While the tests were necessary, Relena was left in the dark about everything she would have to endure in order to prove that her love for Marren was true and pure. The trials they endured nearly killed her, but when the truth was brought to light, they were able to appreciate each other that much more knowing how life would be without the other. The hard times make the good time that much brighter and even sweeter than they normally would be. They help us to love and cherish the other with more intensity and greater appreciation which helps transform our love into something that is steadfast and long-suffering.
Samantha LaFantasie has a brilliantly captivating talent in creating incredible worlds full of amazing and realistic characters that fight their way into your heart and engrain themselves into your very soul. Her tender heart and gentle spirit never ceases to move me to tears of both joy and sadness. I lose my heart to each of her characters, and I find that I don't want it back. Walking around in her exquisite worlds leave my heart aching to know more and love harder. If you haven't read one of her wonderful stories, you have no idea of the enthralling beauty and captivating magic that waves itself through each page and in every word that penetrates your heart.
215672
From the first chapter, I was captured with reading this story. We start out following Valerie and her family as they go through a difficult financial situation, moving them across the country. It is clear there are difficult relationship dynamics among the family members, with a troubling past that is revealed slowly as the story unwraps. A series of events leads to amnesia and surrendering to the Lord for healing of the entire family, learning to trust Him alone.

I really enjoyed reading about this family and would love to read more as Shannon continues her series. Particularly seeing the stories behind several other characters, her daughter, sister and even the other ladies she meets in her journey. I really related to the characters in the story, loving how it slowly unwrapped what was truly going on.
It was an inspiring story and I particularly loved the discussion questions included at the back of the novel to unpack some of the thoughts it provokes. I would highly recommend this wonderful piece of fiction as it is uplifting and fun to read!
4359672
Wonderful story; couldn't stop reading the book!
4962382
I desperately wish I could give this book more than the allowable 5 stars! I LOVED this book! I discovered Nicole Deese's work after she'd already written a few books and I've not completely caught up yet, but I can't wait to do just that. She is a tremendous author. She manages to capture the reader's heart from the very beginning, crafting characters that live on in your heart after reading the last word.

Told in 2 POVs, this story is full of emotion and depth, even the secondary characters. I felt as if I were indeed a part of the action and several scenes brought such joy to my heart, I gasped aloud. Truly, this is one for your keeper shelf and worthy of a re-read many times over. Just don't miss it.

*I received a preview copy of this book. The opinions stated are entirely my own.
919871
Thrilling adventure awaits! Right from the very first chapter, I was captivated. This delightful story holds many exciting twists and unexpected surprises. The characters are dynamic and realistic. I didn't want to look away from one moment! This is a stand-alone novel, however, savvy readers will recognize a few familiar characters from Brentwood's Ward.

Alexander Moore is a handsome, smooth-talking hero with a heart of gold. He may be undercover, but his true character still shines through. When Alex discovers that the stakes are higher than even he imagined, will he be able to stay true to himself, or will he lose all he holds dear?

Johanna is a spunky young woman who is strong-willed and independent. Since her father's death, she has taken on the role of trying to keep the family inn afloat and keep her mother, little brother and herself out of debtors prison. I love the fact that Johanna grows and learns to let go of the worry and give it to God. This is something that I'm sure we all struggle with from time to time.

This story has something for everyone. A hunky hero, a strong heroine, unique, vivid secondary characters, a fast-paced plot with surprises around every corner, characters with genuine faith and a gentle reminder that we must take our burdens to the Lord and he will be faithful to see us through any hardship or trial.

I highly recommend this fantastic story and give it 5 enthusiastic stars! Grab yourself a copy today!

(I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
3045148
Enchanting story!  Loved every minute of it!  Lilian captured my heart and took me on an adventure that I will never forget!  This story has all the right elements that will keep you entranced through the whole story.  The main characters are inspired and gutsy.  You will appreciate Lilian's intelligence and moxie as she struggles to find her direction in life.  There is plenty of humor to balance out the perplexities of their fast moving lives.  It was fascinating learning about the beginning of silent movies and the famous artists of that time period.  This book will not disappoint and you will be left with a longing for more.  I would love to see this made into a movie.. Don't miss this book... You will love it!
1262796
Montgomery Mahaffey has created a deep and engaging story that is both entertaining, as well as rich with thought provoking metaphors that parallel the internal psychological complexities of the human heart. This is a story of a young girl who, in the midst of her pain and sorrow, makes a very costly and irreversible choice that will forever change her destiny, as well as the destinies of the people she encounters. With this one choice, she becomes both the heroine and the villain, forever blurring the lines between good and evil. I doubt there is a woman alive who doesnt find herself cheering for Ella Bandita at least once in this story, or wishing that they had her power. And I doubt there is a man alive who doesnt see a part of himself mirrored in the eyes of the men who love her. Well worth the read!
1582081
Goodness. This book. Love, hate, hope, and loss are all woven together in a story that shows you how love can overcome the biggest of hurdles. There is so much heart in this book. From the deep devotion and unconditional love of family to a romance that that steals your heart. This is a book that captures you and pulls you deep. The story is entirely unique!

I truly wasn't sure Id like Ricky. Full of anger born of pain and struggling he was understandably bitter. But the more I read the more I couldn't help but love him. Sacrificing his own happiness to save his family. Willing to do anything for those he loves. Right or wrong, his heart was so big. Aveline was easy to love however. Smart but very shy and innocent. Shes been kept in a protective bubble the vast majority of her life. That didn't stop her from being one of the sweetest characters ever though.

With secrets swirling around them and vengeance hovering these two cant fight the deep attraction between them. They both grow so much as individuals and as a couple through their story. Turning tragedy into beauty and hate into love, Ricky and Aveline are fantastic!
3233900
Okay, at first I wasn't sure what to think of this book because sailing and stuff like that didn't do much for me. However, the more I read the story, the more it pulled me in. By the time the romance and the conflict picked up, I was hooked and couldn't stop reading. There is so much depth to this story and so much truth in the lessons learned. We often do things because of shame and guilt that we later regret.

I appreciated the way the author showed the pull that Brent had on Rachel. I also loved the way the author showed how a deep and abiding love trumps lust and attraction when it comes to impact over time. The faith part of the story was an integral, yet subtle part of the story, and one that packed a punch as well. Real human love based on common interests and friendship makes it truly impossible to breath when that kind of love is snatched away. The lesson Jake learned about allowing desire to keep him from visiting his gramps that summer had a impact that would last him the rest of his life. You have to read the book to find out what that consequence was.

Anyway, I was thinking it would be a good, but not amazing book in the beginning. After I got pulled in and emotionally invested in the story, I ached in my chest as much as the characters did. I loved Jake's family and I loved Rachel's brother. The way Rachel allowed her heart to be ruled by fear because of her own parents was realistically shown. The impact of the various choices characters made was far-reaching, but those decisions still had to be made. The way Jake thought and felt internally about the women he cared about was so true-to-life. I appreciated the realism and my heart grieved for him as he allowed himself to go through the pain of the loss his grandfather when he revisited the land his grandfather owned. I felt like he was a real man in every sense of the word, and I loved him more for it.

The way Rachel thought about her weakness made my heart squeeze at times. She was a passionate woman and I could relate to that aspect of her life. She didn't do anything half-heartedly. Sometimes that passion can overwhelm a person, but in this case it made her love others more intensely. After experiencing that kind of connection, loving anyone else would feel like a cheap substitute for the deep, abiding love Jake and Rachel eventually shared. I ached for them as they dealt with the pain of loss and the healing from past hurts. Anyway, I didn't see how the author could create an ending that would work after the mess they'd made of their lives, but she did it. The ending was truly sigh-worthy.

This book had emotional impact and made me think about my life and my choices in a way that I hadn't done before. Because of this connection I had with the characters, Tattered Innocence is making my favorite fiction list for 2013. I start a lot of books I never finish, but this one was worth reading. I loved it!
1326386
I LOVED this book.  I was so drawn to find out the story not only the three main characters, but of so many more of the people in their world.  Celia and her husband, especially, made me particularly look forward to the "Minny" sections.  The rotating voices helped create the feel of a tapestry in which each character's threads lent vibrancy and solidity.  I wanted so badly for things to turn out well for Aibilene...for Elizabeth to catch on and develop a backbone like Skeeter...for Hilly to get what was coming to her.  These women felt so real!  I was teary at some of the poignancy of the end and more than a little wistful that it was over.  What an amazing book!  I'm so glad I read it!
482605
Carolyn's story is from the heart - with its ups and downs and from a real perspective.  I couldn't put my Kindle away and stop reading - her story was captivating.  Carolyn is absolutely inspiring and her commitment and passion is completely encouraging.  Though, I have to say, don't read this on public transport, it is hard to mask crying with empathy!
3475901
This is my first time reading a story by Michelle Hazen but it will definitely not be my last.  This story pulled me in from the get go and I was drawn to Jera and Jacob, wanting to know what made them tick.  There was obvious chemistry between the two, but also issues in their pasts that made them both reluctant to act on their feelings.  There is so much heart and soul to this story, humor but also angst, heartache but hope, betrayal and forgiveness.  There are definitely some crazy times along the way for the band hoping to make it big, and I look forward to reading more about their lives.  I really liked the flow of the story and how details were woven together bringing the characters to life.  I was so into the story that I read well into the night because I didn't want to put the book down.  Definitely worth reading - but for the 18+ crowd.
2111320
So many emotions flow throughout this story!! I couldn't put it down!! Thank you for such a humbling and heartwarming story!!