Sweetly Reviewed

The Parting Gift by Leah Sanders and Rachel Van Dyken

2012-01-07T12:09:00.000-08:00

Story: 10
Presentation: 10
Total: 20
Publisher: Astraea Press
Inspirational Romance
To Purchase

Blurb: Blaine Graham lost his mother at the tender age of eleven. Grief over the loss drove a wedge between him and his father, and soon proved too difficult for him to deal with. At the age of sixteen, he falsified his papers and made the trip across the border into Canada with his best friend to join the Royal Canadian Air Force and enter the war in Europe as a pilot. Ten years later Captain Graham finds himself flying commercial jets in Boston – his estranged father and his past life all but forgotten, until the day he receives a telegram from his dying father asking him to come home.

The persistent Mara Crawford, a live-in nurse, has experienced her fair share of loss as well. Her attachment to Blaine’s father drives her desire to bring reconciliation between the two men before time runs out for her patient. But her best laid plans didn’t include falling in love again.

Review: Amazing! I do not know if this review will give appropriate justice to not only the storyline but the presentation. The Parting Gift is a story of heartfelt emotion. The emotion is not subject to one area but it covers all areas from joy, love, laughter, new found discoveries to loss and heartache. Leah Sanders has done more than an excellent job of bringing out the emotions of human beings in the purest of forms.

The story begins with the funeral of Emily Graham, wife to David Graham and mother to eleven year old Blaine Graham. The life of Emily Graham was so precious to the two that neither knew how to deal with her death. The loss caused tension, regret, hate, anger and rebellion to build in the home, which once harbored love and laughter. After nearly 5 years had passed Blaine left home in a rage at his father and never looked back. Never wanting to see his father again. David Graham's bitterness and anger over his son's departure grew and grew until it consumed him to his very core. It was not until he was diagnosed with a illness that was threatening to end his life soon that he would be brought to feelings of forgiveness and want of reconciliation with his son. David Graham's feelings of forgiveness and reconciliation did not come on their own but with the help of his nurse, Mara, he learned to adapt these feelings as his own.

Blaine living his own life, was jolted to a point of unearthed reality when he received the telegram from Mara informing him of his father's failing health and inevitable death only months away. Tossed about with confusing emotions from the telegram and memories from years before he reluctantly makes his way back home.

The memories of his mother hit him as he entered the home he had tried to forget for so many years. The failing health of his father was a sight that was so foreign to him he had no idea how to deal with such an image. Through the help of Mara, the beautiful nurse, taking care of his father and his father's willingness to forgive and accept Blaine found himself on his knees in new discovery of a world he thought had been buried long ago. Blaine's journey back home opened doors of forgiveness, love and a new found meaning for life he never knew could exist anymore.

The message of love, hope, forgiveness and heartache are all presented in the dearest of forms by Leah Sanders. This story had me in tears, hope and happiness on more than one occasion. The Parting Gift is one you must add to your collection of must reads. You will surely not be disappointed.

3 Christmas Wishes by Beth-Ann Mason

2012-01-04T18:51:00.001-08:00

Story: 8
Presentation: 9
Total: 17
Publisher Tri Destiny
Inspirational Romance
To Purchase

Blurb: It’s Christmas time and Lacey Jude is not only out of a job, but she and her five-year-old son have also been evicted. When the reverend of her church says he knows of a widower who is willing to let them stay through the holidays, her apprehension is overridden only by the drive to provide a warm and safe place for her son for Christmas.

Robert Martinez left the small town as soon as he graduated and hardly looked back. As a founding partner of one of New York’s top advertising firms, he lives his life on his own terms. Going back home brings him face-to-face with a harsh reality; you can rarely have everything your own way.

Coming from such different worlds, will Lacey and Robert find a way to make the Christmas wishes of the people they love most come true?

Review: This was a really great sweet romance that is so hard to come by these days. Not only was the story well written and moving, but inspirational in a way that I rarely see in todays market.

Sweet and "real" This is one that I totally loved and you can bet your boots that I will be on the look-out for more from Ms Mason in the future :)

The Sweet Life: Diabetes Without Boundaries! by Sam Talbot

2011-12-31T17:52:00.000-08:00

Story: 9
Presentation: 9
Total: 18
Publisher: Rodale
Cookbook
To Purchase

Blurb: Sam Talbot is a professional chef, restaurateur, surfer, painter, philanthropist, and, since the age of 12, type 1 diabetic. Yet he has not let the disease stop him from living a rich life packed with energy, adventure, and achievement—culinary and otherwise. In his first, much-anticipated book, he recounts how diabetes has affected but not compromised his life or career, and he shares his own tips—alongside those from other famous diabetics like Halle Berry, Larry King, and Tommy Lee—on how to handle everything from work and hobbies to relationships and travel with discipline and enthusiasm. To round out this advice, he offers bits of foodie wisdom and 75 innovative recipes for fresh, all-natural dishes anybody, diabetic or not, can prepare and enjoy.

Heartfelt, entertaining, and backed by real-life experience and solid medical expertise, The Sweet Life will give readers hope, inspiration, and the proof they need to realize that life with diabetes isn’t about diabetes: It’s about living.

Review: An inspiring story paired with chic eats to share with the diabetic in your life. While many of these culinary creations sound like fine dining at it's best, be prepared to see ingrediants that you might not be able to find at your local shop all store :)

Not like any other diabetic cook book that I have read, the story was as captivating as the meals. Worth the read and manybe you'll find a treat or two that will tempt you to try :) I found several even though I am not a diabetic....but I have members of my family who are :) Thank you to Rodale and Sam Talbot for bringing this to thoseof us who can learn from books like yours :)

Treasured Amish & Mennonite Recipes by Mennonite Central Committee and Alan Giagnocavo

2011-12-31T16:00:00.000-08:00

Story: 10
Presentation: 10
Total: 20
Publisher: Fox Chapel Publishing
Cookbook
To Purchase

Blurb: Filled with 627 of the best recipes gathered from Amish and Mennonite cooks from across the United States and Canada, Treasured Amish & Mennonite Recipes will have you preparing delicious, down-to-earth dishes your family will request again and again.

In this newly revised edition that includes 50 new recipes, you'll find an endless array of appetizers, soups, salads, main dishes, casseroles, breads, and desserts that are easy to make and require only the simplest and freshest of ingredients.

In fact, everything you need is probably already in the pantry, growing in the backyard, or easily purchased at the local market. One taste and you'll see why these recipes have been bringing families and communities together at the table for generations.

Review: Yes, I am one of those women who actually READ a cookbook :) Strange? Perhaps but let me tell you that I find them very interesting. Not only do I get to discover a ton of yummy sounding foods, but I even get to learn about different combinations and ways of cooking.

I was super excited to get the chance to read and review this one. There is nothing that I love better than going through my grannie's recipie box in search of trasured favorites. This book was filled with down home favorites that I will be tackeling in my own kitchen to serve with love to my family and friends.

debbie Macomber's Christmas Cookbook

2011-12-27T20:32:00.000-08:00

Story: 10
Presentation: 8.5
Total: 18.5
Publisher: Harlequin
Cookbook
To Purchase

Blurb: We call her the "Official Storyteller of Christmas"—but Debbie Macomber is more than that. She's someone who loves the holiday and all its traditions. Now she shares more than one hundred of her favorite recipes to help you enjoy this most joyous of seasons. You'll also find easy-to-follow instructions for crafts, decorations and gift wrapping—everything you need to create a beautiful and festive holiday.

Review: I LOVE Debbie Macomber! Always have :) And this festive collection is just hwat I needed.

Not only are there some realy yummy sounding recipes , nifty craft ideas and home decorations that will bring the holiday season to life in your home, but there are amazing little peeks into her life and why Christmas is such a big part of her life.
I know you are wondering why the presentation score is low and that only comes because the Kindle verson that I have has an issue with some words and formatting. That aside I fell in love with this book and plan on using it for many years to come :)

Thank you Ms Macomber for sharing this with us :)

Save The Date by Jenny B. Jones

2011-12-27T20:30:00.000-08:00

Story: 9
Presentation: 9
Total: 18
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Contermporary Inspirational
To Purchase

Blurb: When funding for Lucy's non-profit job is pulled, she is determined to find out why. Enter Alex Sinclair Enterprises--the primary donor to Lucy's non-profit organizaiton.

Both Lucy and Alex have something the other desperately wants.

Alex has it all...except for the votes he needs to win his bid for Congress. Despite their mutual dislike, Alex makes Lucy a proposition: pose as his fiancée in return for the money she desperately needs. Bound to a man who isn't quite what he seems, Lucy finds her heart--and her future--on the line.

Review: An amazing tale that struck all the right chords :) I enjoy a well written inspy and let me tell you that this was one that I enjoyed until the very last word was read.

I am a sucker for marriages of convenience but when the story and characters can take that plot to a whole new level it just makes me thrilled :) Overall this was a fantastic story that you can bet I will be telling friends about and keeping on my shelf to re-read for years to come.

SNAPS Ms Jones on a superb job.

Reluctant Bridesmaid by Wendy Davy

2011-09-03T21:40:00.000-07:00

Story: 9
Presentation: 9
Total: 18
Publisher: White Rose Publishing
Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: Jordan Harrison no longer trusts relationships, so when her widowed mother is swept away by a handsome, wealthy architect, Jordan fears the hasty engagement will end in disaster. After all, how well can her mother know the guy after only a few months? Intent on saving her mother from certain heartbreak, Jordan races to Breckenridge Manor to delay the wedding, but runs into more than she’s bargained for—a handsome, understanding man intent on helping her heal past wounds and open her mind to new possibilities.

Known as the man with nerves of steel, Tanner Breckenridge lives up to his reputation, but it doesn’t take long for him to discover he has a soft spot for Jordan Harrison, the daughter of his father’s future bride. Loyal to his father, but captivated by Jordan, Tanner puts his heart on the line and risks everything for a chance at love

Review: One of the things that I love about inspy is how it makes me feel when I read it. Not only while but after. The way I can tell a GOOD inspy is by how long and how strong the felings are. This one was a winner for me :)

Rocked my world and left me with a warm fuzzy feeling deep in my chest. A great author that penned a great story. Well done :)

The Fearsome Beastie by Giles Paley-Phillips

2011-08-02T19:34:00.000-07:00

Story: 8.5

Presentation: 9
Total: 17.5
Publisher: Maverick Arts
Children's book
To Purchase

Review: Let me start by saying that I love children's books. My kids love for me to read to them and I totally enjoy finding a book that my kids ask me to read again and again. With that said I can now tell you that I found this story very entertaining :) While maybe not what we here in the states would typically think of when we pick up a book for the kiddos, I liked it. The ax wielding Granny that chops up the fearsome beastie and releases all the little kids that he ate gets my vote :)

Even my stoic hubby thought the book was different in a good way. Maybe not something I would read to a 3 year old but my older child really liked it and I dug reading it to him. The imagery was well done and the poetry of the story flowed very well. I was impressed :)

Flirting With the Fireman by Judy Jarvie

2011-03-06T03:00:00.000-08:00

Story: 6
Presentation: 8
Total: 12
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Sweet Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: Felicity Truro's diary is filling up with problems. First there's the ugliest bridesmaid's dress in the world, then there's her sick aunt's serious secret. But it's Rod McAllister, the handsome firefighter best man with attitude, who's melting her willpower and frazzling her nerves the most.

Can Flick survive being a bridesmaid for the eleventh time whilst falling for the best man? And how will she cope when Rod needs a stand-in and she's promoted to top of the candidate list?

Review: The blurb really grabbed. I could have done without all the email, IM, voice mails and diary excerpts.

Really the idea for the story and the plot were cute. But for me, it was a bit…daunting. I don’t mind emails and such thrown in on occasion in a story. Hey, it’s the world we live in now, but I just got bogged down with the sheer number in this story. I would have enjoyed it much more without nearly as many.

Don’t get me wrong, the author did a good job with the writing. The way it was presented just wasn’t for me.

Ellie's Song by Ginger Hanson

2011-02-13T11:35:00.000-08:00

Story: 6
Presentation: 9
Total: 15
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Sweet Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: Take one heroine and hero gripped in relationship limbo. Stir in a possible media scandal. Sprinkle lightly with a three-year-old child. Add one potential mother-in-law, a former boyfriend, a celebrity reporter hot for a story break and a Hollywood starlet. Knead above ingredients. Cover and let rise in a warm place. Bake for 31 chapters. Yield: Ellie’s Song, the story of shy folk artist Ellie Kellson who loves country singer Lane Walker, but abhors the media attention he needs to be a successful singing artist.

Review: I wish I could give this story a higher rating. The plot had great possibilities, but Ms. Hanson just did not keep my attention. The opener is a tear-jerker with unwed mother, Ellie, seeing her baby's father's wedding announcement to another woman. Lane shows up and does not know about his daughter. At this point, I really expected a great story. This story could have been great, it had all the characters, all the relationships, all the necessary elements, but it just didn't do anything for me. The characters and their personalities were pretty well developed, but they just didn't leap off the page and come alive for me. The other man, Joshua, is a nice guy, but I found him to be wimpy. Ellie's mom was caring, but intrusive. Her younger sister is a star-struck teenager, sweet and nice, but just not "alive" for me. I guess that is what I could say about all the characters; they were nice, but just bland like mashed potatoes are nice but baked potatoes are better.

The three year old daughter is cute, but I had problems with her dialogue. I have a three year old granddaughter, and the difference in their vocabulary was striking. The section about the little girl being lost was terrifying for a mother to read. It makes us realize just how fast a little one can get out of sight and be lost.

I enjoyed the descriptions of food and the aromas, especially the cinnamon used in her bread. In fact, cinnamon was mentioned many times. That and the cardamon, hmmmm , were enough to almost make me drool. The references to food like chocolate pie, fried chicken, green beans sautéed with Roma tomatoes made me go to the fridge several times.

It is a good story, but, for me, it could have been great with more work. I would suggest you read it and decide for yourself. This story might really appeal to you. We all know that what one reader likes, another will not care for. Give it a chance, you might really like it.

The Treasure by Theresa Scott

2010-12-19T03:00:00.000-08:00

Story: 8.5
Presentation: 9
Total: 17.5
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Sweet Historical
To Purchase

Blurb: Gentle Fawn longs to give her husband a baby, but when yet another child is stillborn, she begs the Great Spirit to give the love in her husband’s heart to a woman who can give him many sons.

Grieving along with his wife, Hawk Catcher overhears Gentle Fawn’s desperate plea and vows to ease the pain in his beloved's heart.

Through the magic of the season, their prayers are answered by two bumbling trappers... and a goat.

Review: You know, I really enjoy a sweet feel good story anytime of the year but for some reason during the holiday season they just seem to stick with me a bit longer.

This one was filled to the brim with a couples love for each other and their grief over the loss of another child. Ms Scott wove a tale that is just bursting at the seams with magic. I got misty more than once while I was reading. The wonderful way she describes the journey of the trappers, this loving couple and the season miricle was just pure poetry for the eyes. :) Well Done!!!

Sold! By Stacy Dawn

2010-12-06T03:00:00.000-08:00

Story: 8
Presentation: 9
Total: 17
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Contemporary Sweet
To Purchase

Blurb: Playing around with ways to let a co-worker know she wants to share more than just the look over the staffroom coffeemaker, a nervous newspaper employee inadvertently sends him a made-up classified ad. Will her colossal mistake put her in next week's gossip column or land her the best deal of her life?

Review: A super-sweet, but refreshingly fun story. I smiled from the cheeky opening to the last flirtatious paragraph. For a buck, this is a sweet and romantic was to spend a couple of minutes. A nice lunch time pick me up.

Corvette Confessions by Stacy Dawn

2010-10-17T04:00:00.000-07:00

Story: 9
Presentation: 9
Total: 18
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Sweet Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: Class of '85 Series

Have you ever been in the right place at the wrong time?

Dumped at the senior spring dance, AJ, who’d always been more into softball and shop class than cheerleading and pep squad, escaped the crowd to mope in the Corvette on loan to the class for the semester. When Greg Roberts unexpectedly joined her, his attempts to cheer her worked—too well. She might have even confessed her love that night if Greg’s longtime girlfriend hadn’t come looking for him.

Twenty-five hard years later, forced to come to the reunion by her best friend, AJ escapes back to her favorite class, only to find the exact Corvette—a little worn and faded—sitting right where she’d left it. Fond memories turn into reality when Greg shows up at her driver’s side window again—and déjà vu takes on a whole new meaning.

Review: What a cute story!! AJ's friend, Janelle, convinces her to attend their 25th high school class reunion. AJ had been a "softball and body shop" type in high school, not really one of the in crowd. Janelle was a cheerleader and popular girl.

AJ trips going up the steps into the gym where the reunion is being held and a male hand saves her from falling on her face. He happens to be Greg, her shop class buddy, a hunk then and still a hunk now. As they are talking Marly, his old girlfriend runs up and kisses him.

During the reunion, AJ leaves to roam her old high school and ends up in the shop class room where she finds the Corvette the class worked on their senior year. It turns out to be the exact same one. As AJ is sitting in the Vette reminiscing about her senior prom when her date left her on the dance floor for his ex-girlfriend, Greg rescued her then and took her riding in the green Corvette. Greg comes in and surprises AJ sitting in the old classic. They talk and catch up with what has been going on in their lives for the past 25 years. She is divorced and has her own business.

Marly shows up and AJ starts to leave, when Greg stops her....and you'll have to read the rest yourself.

For a short story, the main character’s personalities were well developed. Dialogue was realistic. I liked the ending. Like I said above, this is a cute story, and proves the old saying, "It's never too late..."

Gift of Love by Cynthia Moore

2010-10-16T14:37:00.000-07:00

Story: 8.5
Presentation: 8
Total: 16.5
Publisher: Cerridwen Press
Sweet Historical
To Purchase

Blurb: Lady Rebecca Hastings has lost her sparkle, her intense joy for living, since her intended was killed in the Battle of Waterloo. On the day that Rebecca’s wedding had been scheduled to take place, she is reunited with her childhood friend and neighbor, Adrian Russell, Marquess of Burton.

Rebecca is immediately conscious of new feelings of contentment as she speaks with Adrian about the happy experiences they shared as children. Memories of their past combined with the cheer of the Christmas season—and some alarming visits from the spirit of her intended—eventually bring Rebecca the knowledge of an enduring love for Adrian. But can he ever accept her as more than a friend?

Review: Sometimes with the death of someone close to us we don’t realize how sad and withdrawn we have become until those closest point it out.

This was a really heartwarming tale about a young woman who has lost her fiancé and still mourns him. His ghost tells her that she needs to move on or he cannot rest. With the help of her friends she discovers that there is opportunity for a happy life again.

Totally sweet tale that gave me warm fuzzies :) The rich detail and developed characters made it easy for me to feel connected to the story and it is one that I would recommend to others.

Perfect Partners by Kate Richards

2010-10-14T08:39:00.000-07:00

Story: 8.5
Presentation: 8.5
Total: 17
Publisher: Breathless Press
Sweet Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: Scarred from dating hell, Rachel never expected to receive a membership to PerfectPartners.com from her meddling mother and co-workers on her birthday. To please her loved ones, she joined the Internet dating service, but on her terms and requesting the impossible—until she received a surprise: Mr. Perfect in the flesh.

Handsome, intelligent, Quinn Everby was everything a woman could wish for, if only Rachel could allow herself to give him a chance. Will she put faith in the site's choice, or will their encounter show Rachel that there is no "perfect partner"?

Review: Awwww! That was one of the sweetest, short lovey stories that I have read in awhile :)

A woman not wanting a relationship…there is no bigger cynic :) But Rachel got a good dose of sweet hot stud and suddenly realized not all guys are losers. This story was a winner for me even though I felt like slapping the crap out of her friends :) Sometimes those who love you do things out of love that you might just wish they hadn’t…but when it all works out for the best….oh what great friends they are to have :)

Made To Order by Johanna Riley

2010-10-05T03:00:00.000-07:00

Story: 7.5
Presentation: 9
Total: 16.5
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Sweet Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: The Flower Basket

Between running a diner, refereeing her employees, and pretending she’s not in love with best friend Todd Chambers, Shelby Winters has enough on her plate. But when she receives flowers from an anonymous admirer and dinner invitations from her other best friend, Kevin Grady, she can’t pass up the tempting opportunity to infuse her life with a little fun. Unfortunately, her new life is alienating Todd. Is Shelby’s new joie de vie enough to give her the courage to confess her true feelings? Or will her inherent shyness leave her at a table for one?

Review: This one really started out with a bang. I was introduced to the characters and like them instantly. Then comes chapter 4, I get left going…huh? How in the world did she put two and two together? I was totally in the dark as to how she figured out what Kevin was doing. Then there was a mention of Todd and when was he going to realize he was in love with her….While I know he is, SHE doesn’t or at least has never said where I the reader can understand where she is coming up with these conclusions.

There was sooooo much that could have been expanded on so I wouldn’t have felt half blind while reading the story. Kevin, Todd and Shelby were all fantastic characters, but I always felt like I was only getting half a glimpse of them and the story.

In the end, while I loved the way the story worked out…just as I knew it would, I was left with an incomplete feeling. One that really, really wants to know more about the why’s and how’s.

Don’t get me wrong, I am a HUGE Flower Basket series fan. I have read them all and will continue to do so. Ms Riley came up with a story and plot that I am a huge fan of….friends to lovers can’t be beat for me. The story for me is like Swiss cheese, delicious and bright, complete in every way…even with the holes :)

His Darling by Ashley Elizabeth Ludwig

2010-09-18T03:00:00.000-07:00

Story: 8.5
Presentation: 9
Total: 17.5
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Sweet Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: The Flower Basket Series

Love can bloom at any age…But, will it wilt under the spotlight?

Former fifties Hollywood starlet—Nona Darling—fell in love onscreen over and again. In her granddaughter Misty’s opinion, true love only exists in the movies and too often, she falls for the villain. Running from a failed relationship and her film production company turned tabloid, she returns to Almendra, California to care for her grandmother, and hide from the world.

Cain Trovato, a small town jack-of-all-trades, finds Misty and refuses to let her escape into obscurity. Blocked for years from songwriting, he starts putting words to music as a way to define his growing feelings.

When the Almendra Film Festival spotlights Nona Darling, Misty’s former fiancée makes a claim to reveal her grandmother’s secret past. No amount of editing will spare the coming scandal. With Cain at her side, can Misty believe in a happily ever beyond the rolling credits?

Review: Another fine addition to this series. Almendra is begining to feel like home to me :) I feel so connected to the characters and the stories. Can I move there? ;)

A witty, sweet wonderful story that really bounced for me. A sassy movie star, her lovely granddaughter and a hometown man who does just about everything. They all made this story come to life. Of course the wonderful women at the Flower Shop added their spice to the story :) as they always do :)

With not one, but two romances playing out in this one, Love is certainly in the air and really hard to ignore. And let me just say that I will never look at olive oil the same....Oh I wish Cain was the one I was buying it from. CUTIE!!!! And a musician to boot :)

Rest assured that I will be waiting for the next installment of this series. Ms Ludwig's addition makes the collection shine just a bit more than it already did :)

Only in Novels by Laura Briggs

2010-09-13T03:00:00.000-07:00

Story: 7.5
Presentation: 9
Total: 16.5
Publisher: White Rose Publishing
Contemporary Inspirational
To Purchase

Blurb: When a simple mistake lands bookstore owner Lannie Maxwell with the wrong author for her book signing, she wonders if her tiny business is destined to fail. Instead of Ms. Modern Homemaker-an author sure to multiply the bookstore's gross revenue-Lannie finds herself stuck with D.E. Hensen, an unorthodox and infuriating adventure novelist. The dashing D.E. is determined to help Lannie rescue her struggling business, but his outlandish ideas threaten to turn her world upside down. Can the two put aside their differences to save the store-and find their own version of happily-ever-after?

Review: This was a cute little story. The emotion that she felt about her bookstore literally jumped of the pages at me from the beginning. While I thought there were some…silly ideas :) suggested by the hero, I think the author did a really good job making it all work. In the end I was pleased with the journey I made.

The inspirational aspect of the story was not over the top, but a pretty steady influence throughout. All in all it was a story that had likeable characters, a cute plot and story line and a good conflict that I found to be believable.

Good job Ms Briggs :)

In His Sight by Pamela S. Thibodeaux

2010-09-08T03:00:00.000-07:00

Story: 6
Presentation: 8
Total: 14
Publisher: White Rose Publishing
Inspirational
To Purchase

Blurb: Grade school teacher Carson Alexander has a gift—a gift that has driven a wedge between him and his family. Worse, it’s put him at odds with God. Feeling alone and misunderstood, Carson views God’s gift of prophecy as the worst kind of curse…that is until he meets Lorelei Conner, landscape artist extraordinaire, and perhaps the one person who may need Carson and his gift more than anyone ever has.

Lorelei Connor is a mother on the run. Her abusive ex-husband has followed her all over the country trying to steal their daughter. Distrusting of men and needing to keep on the move, she’s surprised by her desire to remain close to Carson Alexander. Through her fear and hesitation, she must learn to rely on God to guide her—not an easy task when He’s prompting her to trust a man.

Can their relationship withstand the tragedy lurking on the horizon?
Review: While fraught with inspiration and the Lord, the plot seemed to be weighed down at times by scenes that just didn’t seem to move the story forward at all.

I enjoyed the characters for the most part. I think the light paranormal element could have shined a bit more giving me, the reader, a better look at it rather than just a passing glance. While it was discussed, the actual “feelings” seemed rather vague and gone before I knew it.

All in all it was a story that I think had really good potential but I felt like I read a first draft rather than a final product.

Susan's 4th of July Fireworks by Kara Lynn Russell

2010-08-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

Story: 6

Presentation: 9
Total: 15
Publisher: White Rose Publishing
Sweet Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: Pansy and Misty matched a lot of couples in Orchard Hill but not everyone needs their help.

Cal Wensloff has moved back home to Orchard Hill and Susan Schmidt discovers that the crush she had on him in high school is alive and well. The amazing part is that Cal seems to be interested in her, too. But when her father forbids her to see him, and a rival sets her sights on Cal, Susan has to make some hard choices. The 4th of July is coming up and she's agreed to play Snow White in the annual parade. Will Cal be her Prince Charming, or will Susan end up alone again?

One way or the other, there'll be fireworks in Orchard Hill this 4th of July.

Review: While I really liked the premise for this story, I have to say that for me it just didn't come together. Susan at times comes across as petty and a bit mean. Her character felt very juvinille and I just couldn't relate.

HOWEVER...the authors ability to paint a vivid, tactile image was wonderful. I could see, smell and hear every detail in this story. and did you check out that cover? WOW!!! Very nice :)

Hidden Magic by Ashlynn Monroe

2010-07-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

Story: 7
Presentation: 9
Total: 16
Publisher: Wild Horse Press
Sweet Fantasy Romance
To Purchase

Blurb: Alexis is happy with her life and feels that it is ordinary, until a strange magician threatens her family and exposes her brother's secrets. Discovering nothing she believes about herself is true, she is confronted with a family secret that leaves her at the mercy of her brother's nemesis, the man who claims she belongs to him.

Hidden Magic is a tale of fairies, magic, and love.

Review: Hidden Magic was a dichotomy of reading experiences. There were parts that I loved and could not get enough of and other areas that I nearly put the story aside. And that would have been a shame since I would have missed the best parts of the book. The beginning is slow and most of what was there was a telling of back story and the mundane activities of Alexis’ daily life. But don’t give up, keep reading because when the story kicks in about a third of the way through, it’s exciting. Good vs perceived evil. Only the evil isn’t so evil at all just a difference of viewpoints between two powerful forces. The Fae and Humans are on the brink of war. A woman discovers her destiny and cant help falling in love with an enemy sworn to destroy her brother. Whew, this story has so much to offer if you trudge through the opening and get to the heart of Hidden Magic.

Rodeo Redemption by Teri Wilson

2010-07-17T21:10:00.000-07:00

Story: 10
Presentation: 10
Total: 20
Publisher: White Rose Publishing
Contemporary Inspirational
To Purchase

Blurb: A Former Rodeo Queen

Josie Turner spends her days at the local dog grooming shop pampering the pooches of Angel Springs, Texas. When rodeo season rolls around again, the townfolk are excited about who their new Rodeo Queen might be. Josie, on the other hand, finds herself reminded all too often about a night she’d just as soon forget.

A Former Rodeo Cowboy

Luke Anderson lived for three things – riding, roping and rodeos. Until the day he met Josie Turner, the girl who gave his life meaning, and whose heart he was destined to break. Now, ten years later, he returns to Angel Springs to find the town hasn’t changed much, but the girl he left behind has become a stranger he hardly recognizes. What, he wonders, will she think of him, and the man he’s become?

A Rodeo Weekend

Determined to break through the wall Josie has erected around her heart, Luke must face his demons while at the same time helping Josie overcome hers. With the whole town cheering them on, can Luke mend Josie’s heart and can one rodeo weekend help them both find redemption?

Review: Have you looked at the SR scoring page? If you haven't then now is a good time.

TOTAL PERFECTION!!!!! I don't hide the fact that I am a huge Teri Wilson fan. I have read EVERYTHING she has written. Loved everything she has written. Have print copies on my bookshelf :) BUT Rodeo Redemption ROCKED!!!

Perhaps it was the fact that this award winning author brought together cowboys, rodeo, God, love and animals and wrapped them into a fantastic story. Or maybe it was the fact that she wrote it so well that I was unable to stop reading once I opened the PDF. It could have been that she pens such real-to-life characters that I immediately felt like I knew them. Who cares. All that matters is that Ms Wilson has done it yet again :)

It is no wonder this author made it on the Seriously Unforgettable list or that her fans adore her. She is unforgettable and pens stories that are warm, emotional, witty works of art :) Not only for the eyes but also for the heart and soul.

**SNAPS** Ms Wilson. I can't wait to get my hands on your next work :)

Grounded by Sandra Cox

2010-07-14T11:02:00.000-07:00

Story: 8
Presentation: 8
Total: 16
Publisher: Class Act Books
YA Fantasy
To Purchase

Blurb: On the surface, Gillian Stone has it all: wealth, beauty, and the freedom to come and go as she pleases…at least from sunset to dawn. From dawn to dusk, she’s grounded in several hundred pounds of marble. And if that’s not bad enough, her life expectancy is preordained to be short…unless, she can find a certain genie and reverse the wish-spell.

Review: This was a really good story. Well developed characters and plot. Interesting and engaging premise. All delivered with a bang. With all the problems that most young women face, who needs problems like this. Great secondary characters only added to the dynamic of the story and gave it a very well rounded feel. Very nicely done Ms Cox.

More Than A Playboy by Monique DeVere

2010-06-02T11:42:00.000-07:00

Story: 8
Presentation: 9
Total: 17
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Sweet Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: She has a shield...he has one too...and they’re both hiding secrets.

Serious-minded Sandy Donovan has one unbreakable rule—never fall for a rich playboy. Falling for a playboy destroyed her mother and ruined Sandy’s childhood. She’s determined never to let the same thing happen to her. Unfortunately, the only man to make her hormones sit up and take notice is a playboy who doesn’t know the first thing about taking life seriously.

A lonely, miserable childhood taught Cameron Berkeley-Scott to hide his feelings in humour, but his comic nature is pushing away the one woman he wants to draw near. She thinks he’s a playboy—a title he has no desire to have—and ignores his outrageous flirting.

Now it’s time for Cameron to show Sandy he isn’t the irresponsible pleasure-seeker she thinks—but will she run when she finds out who he really is?

Review: You know...there are times when I come across a sweet little story like this one, that I thank my lucky stars my mother pushed me so hard as a child to read. And when I baulked as a young teen, she handed me a romance novel. I LOVE READING!!! But one of the things that makes me love reading as much as I do is wonderfully written, heart-felt stories like this one.

Ms DeVere has done a magnificent job in telling a tale, warts and all, and having it all come out smelling like roses in the end. The characters were great, the plot solid and the story...sigh...yeah, it was really good.

*SNAPS* Monique, on a job well done :)

Advertising For Love by Sandy Sullivan

2010-05-23T00:05:00.000-07:00

Story: 6.75
Presentation: 9
Total: 15.75
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Sweet Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: The Flower Basket Series

Cassie doesn’t have time for a man, not on a permanent basis anyway. Establishing her advertising business holds her heart until she notices an intriguing gentleman visiting The Flower Basket every other day. His brilliant blue eyes, broad shoulders and muscled chest haunt her waking hours and invade her midnight dreams until she comes face to face with her mystery man.

Cassandra Meyer. Just her name holds Jeremy Spencer spellbound, but actually meeting her sends his heart and desire into overdrive. He wants her but when she refuses to give into the attraction crackling between them, his frustration at her stubbornness forces his hand. His advertising campaign comes with one additional prize -- him. Take it or leave it.

Can Jeremy convince Cassie there’s room in her life for more than statistics and trends and to give love a try?

Review: I love this series. I was hooked from the beginning. Perhaps that is why this review is so difficult for me to write.

While the premise for this story was WONDERFUL, a character fell short for me. I enjoy a good alpha male that has some overbearing tendencies at times. But when manipulation and IMHO deceit are used to make a woman jealous so he can get what he wants from the very beginning, he loses some of his hero-like qualities.

Ms Sullivan did a wonderful job crafting a tale that had everything it needed to be a riviting story, driven plot, a twist that made me gasp, a heroine I liked from the start and of course...the sweet romance. My only wish is that the hero had been a bit more likeable through the entire story. The tale ended on a happy note, but we would expect nothing less from a sweet romance :)

I will be keeping my eyes peeled for this author in the future. I have high hopes for the next story of hers that I pick up :)

Faith by Merry Stahel

2010-05-14T09:46:00.001-07:00

Story: 9.5
Presentation: 9.5
Total: 19
Publisher: White Rose Publishing
Inspirational Romance
To Purchase

Blurb: Afraid of losing the only person left who loves her, Faith follows her widowed mother-in-law to a new home. But God has plans for Faith...plans that include a new love, hope, and a future. Can Faith open her bruised and hurting heart to allow a loving God and a loving man back in?

Review: Every so often I get the pleasure of reviewing a story that is so powerful, so well written and so wonderful that I am in awe when it is over. This is one of those.

With emotion so powerful and raw that it left me gasping. I was able to connect, to feel, to experience this passionate tale of love, moving on and taking another chance on happiness and love. Ahhh. Yes Ms Stahel has done a wonderful job and I have full intents on see her name on may more stories on my computer screen for a long time to come.

Love to Delare by Charlotte McClain

2010-05-08T12:58:00.001-07:00

Story: 6

Presentation: 9

Total: 15

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Sweet Contemporary

To Purchase

Blurb: Schlepping parts back and forth from Japan for work, Jake has been waiting to see Customs bust somebody for months. He thinks it might be his lucky day when the agents take special interest in Maggie. But Maggie is nice and hardly the type. Isn't she?
Maggie just wants to get home. She's been overseas teaching pre-school for a year and flying for the past several days. Then before the final leg, she gets stuck in Secondary Inspection. The only saving grace being the cute guy hanging around with her. He's the only one who doesn't think she's a criminal. Isn't he?

Review: An interesting little tale.

While cute in the end I was left a little confused about what I had read. For a good portion I wasn't sure if Jake was an undercover agent or not. This is another one that I thought had great potential but wish it had been a bit more in depth so I wasn't left miffed in the end.

Reservation Required by Sarita Leone

2010-05-08T12:52:00.000-07:00

Story: 6.5
Presentation: 9
Total: 15.5
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Sweet Vintage Historical
To Purchase

Blurb: Penobscot Bay is the perfect place for romance. Pippa has more than her share of suitors. But who will win her heart? The answer seems clear as her feelings for best friend Jake begin to change. But when a handsome stranger checks into the Samoset Hotel, all bets are off!

Review: This sweet little tidbit was just enough to whet my whistle but not quench my thirst.
While the story kept me I wish there had been more. More to explore the relationship between Pippa and Jake. More to understand Pippa as an individual. Well, just more. At the end, I felt like I had missed something.

Snow Angels by Wendy Davy

2010-04-25T19:04:00.000-07:00

Story: 8
Presentation: 9
Total: 17
Publisher: White Rose Publishing
Sweet Inspirational
To Purchase

Blurb: A blizzard brings them together…
A twist of fate threatens to tear them apart.

Seeking her father’s approval, ski patrol candidate, Isabelle Rollins, will stop at nothing to secure her place among the highly respected patrollers at Snowcap Resort, even if it means risking her life. When she becomes lost in a blizzard, she fights her way to the doorstep of a handsome stranger, only to discover he is the one man who can stand in the way of her dream.

Seeking refuge from his tragic past, Ski Patrol Director, Mitchell Donovan, prays his new environment will help his daughter heal and overcome her persistent nightmares. When a stranded woman shows up on his doorstep desperate to survive a raging blizzard, he brings her in from the cold and into his life, only to discover she's the one woman he has no business falling for.

Review: Be warned, this one will pull at your heart strings :)
OY! What a great story!!! I couldn't get enough of the characters, the plot, the...well, everything! Ms Davy has done a fab job of pulling me in and keeping me hooked with a tale of a woman who is desperate for her fathers approval and a mans journey to start a new life for himself and his little girl.
Set in a quaint ski town, these three are thrown together and discover that sometimes the path to healing isn't what you expected :) It's better.

Always a Bridesmaid by Elaine Hopper

2010-03-28T09:41:00.001-07:00

Story: 6
Presentation: 9
Total: 15
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Contemporary Sweet
To Purchase

Blurb: Hell has finally frozen over. After nine long years, Breanna Parker has come home to be her sister's maid of honor. Just her luck that the first person she runs into is her ex-fiance, Troy Youngwolf—the man who eloped with her ex-best friend and broke her heart. Now a widowed father and sheriff of their Florida home town, sexy bad boy Troy wants another chance and won't take no for an answer. However, every time Breanna looks at Troy or his little girl, her heart breaks anew. She can hardly wait for her sister to get hitched so she can escape back to her urban family in Ft. Lauderdale. The risk is too high that Troy may discover her most closely held secret, one with the potential to destroy them both…perhaps this time forever.

Review: As much as I love the premise to this story, ex-lovers who get another shot, I had a few issues with this one.
The Hero and the Heroine both displayed very negative qualities. As a woman, who has often wondered "what-if", I must say that if I ever had an ex who did to me what Troy did, a second chance would just not happen. Even if I decided to entertain the idea of a second chance his response to her "secret" would have killed it for me.
NOW, with me having expressed my feelings toward the characters I do have to say that the story kept me pulled in even though sometimes I felt like I was reading just to see if Brenna was going to slap Troy and tell him to bite a big one.
If you enjoy a read where the hero displays some non-hero-like qualities then you may enjoy this one. I just didn't feel connected to him or the heroine very much through the story and wish I had like them both a bit more.

Steal My Heart by Dina Troy

2010-03-28T09:38:00.000-07:00

Story: 7.5
Presentation: 9
Total: 16.5
Publisher: Fido Publishing
Sweet Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: When Lauren Hayes decides to treat herself to a necklace after landing a great job as an assistant editor, she encounters Bayard Fredericks working at a new jewelry store, and he’s the most gorgeous man she’s ever seen. The attraction is mutual, and over the next few weeks he comes on strong, buying her expensive gemstones over her objections. But things don’t quite click for Lauren. She’s just emerged from a bad relationship, and she doesn’t want to rush into anything that could compromise her new found independence. And how can Bayard afford such costly presents in the first place?

Lauren is completely smitten, but her concerns deepen when Bayard lies about his past, and her best friend, Sheila, suspects Bayard might be involved in several high-profile jewel heists thought to be “inside jobs.” Shortly thereafter, Lauren’s prized possession, a drawing by a famous artist, goes missing, and Sheila claims she has proof that Bayard is a jewel thief. Lauren may be falling in love, but how can she trust the man who has stolen her heart?

Review: An interesting tale about a woman starting over wanting to stand on her own two feet and a man who wants to take care of her. When you throw theft and uncertainty into the mix, things get a little shaky. It's a good thing that it all works out in the end.
But it makes you think about all the what-if's. I enjoyed the tale and have to say that I would like to read more from Ms Troy in the future. She has a very unique way to pen a tale and keep the reader hooked.

Design for Life by Cate Masters

2010-03-02T14:51:00.000-08:00

Story: 8.5
Presentation: 9
Total: 17.5
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Sweet
To Purchase

Blurb: The Flower Basket

Becca Lyndon puts her dreams on hold by leaving art school to care for her ailing mom. Working full time at The Flower Basket leaves precious little time, but she squeezes in night classes at the local college. When Mike Hunter fills in as a substitute teacher, she worries about a repeat of the critical reviews he gave her work when he substituted at her high school three years earlier. His reason comes as a complete surprise, but can she trust him? Or will he disappear like her father? When that possibility looms all too real, she’s determined never to let the design for her life unravel again. Following her bliss requires work, but pays off in more ways than she ever imagined. She also learns that one door might close, but another can open—and lead to unexpected opportunities.

Review: I love this series :) I can't help it. This story justs add's another UMP to an already wonderful collection :)

Ok, So I'm a softy and I love a story that gets me a warm and mushy inside and this one totally did it. I LOVE Ms Master's ability to make me feel the ups and downs along with the characters. It makes for a really good read.

You can rest assured that any other Flower Basket stories that come out, this reviewer will be reading and letting you know how they were. If the two I have read so far are any indication, WOW!!!!!

Hearts Crossing by Marianne Evans

2010-02-20T20:45:00.000-08:00

Story: 7.5
Presentation: 9
Total: 16.5
Publisher: White Rose Publishing
Christian Romance
To Purchase

Blurb: Collin Edwards, a former parishioner at Woodland Church of Christ, has renounced God without apology, his faith drained away in the face of a tragic loss.

Daveny Montgomery cares deeply about her relationship with God and the community of Woodland. But lately she's been in a rut, longing for something to reignite her spiritual enthusiasm.

A beautification project at Woodland seems the answer for them both. Daveny spearheads the effort and Collin assists—but only with the renovations, and only because he wants to know Daveny better.

Despite his deepening feelings for her, even stepping into the common areas of the church stirs tension and anger.

Can Daveny trust in Collin’s fledgling return to faith? And can Collin ever accept the fact that while he turned his back on God, God never turned his back on him?

Review: Touching. That is one word that can describe this story and just about sum it up.

I love an Inspy or Christian romance that has a good story, wonderful characters and at the end can make you smile because of all the warm fuzzies swimming around in your tummy. What better way to spend some time than letting yourself be swept away in the romance and with a healthy dose of faith this one covers all aspects.

Good job :) I look forward to seeing more from this author in the future.

Moving In by Alice Audrey

2010-02-04T18:44:00.000-08:00

Story: 8
Presentation: 9
Total: 17
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Sweet Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: When Diane and Trigvey move into the same building on the same day, more than their suitcases get tangled up.
All his life Trigvey never once doubted his calling to be a doctor, but an accident in the ER has him doubting himself. Diane's willingness to listen helps him get his head on straight. If only he felt worthy of a woman like her.

Diane is the kind of woman who would love to be someone's wife. Not a trophy wife, or simply married, but the kind of wife whose job is to stay home and take care of the family, even if the family is only a husband. She feeds Trigvey and consoles him, and doesn't even know she has him wrapped around her finger. Jilted for a career-woman and raised by a bitter divorcée, Diane no longer believes in that dream. It's up to Trigvey to convince her it could still be real, if she chooses him.

Review: You know? Every so often you read a story that starts a little slow on the first few pages and then.....BAM it just explodes! This was one of them for me :)

I fell in love with the characters, the story and the romance. With everything going on in the world right now, it is refreshing to read a story that can take you away, put a smile on your face and leave you with a warm feeling inside when you finish.

Ms Audrey, *SNAPS* on a good job. I would love to read more from you in the future :)

The Painters Domestic Dispute by

2010-02-04T17:35:00.000-08:00

Story: 7.5
Presentation: 9
Total: 16.5
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Sweet Vintage Historical
To Purchase

Blurb: Slide into a hot new Studebaker for a quick trip up the Maine Coast, for that All-Important meeting: that's right, Miss Sarah is to meet the parents…

Review: Though this was not really what I would consider a romance, I have to say that it was a very cute story. We get a look at two couples and the things they do for the men they love.

There were some parts in this that were laugh out loud funny. I could picture the looks on the mom's face so vividly and it was a hoot!!!
Great job to the author. Very well done :)

Bridesmaid Blues by Lainey Bancroft

2010-01-31T06:47:00.000-08:00

Story: 9

Presentation: 9

Total: 18

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Sweet Contemporary

To Purchase

Blurb: Trisha Ellison hopes a trip to the San Jose flower market will help her find a bloom exotic enough to suit her picky sister. When events unfold that send Trisha to the market with The Flower Basket’s hunky new driver, Rico Martinez, Trisha wonders if she’s also found a solution to avoid attending her sister’s wedding solo.
Raised by a grandmother soured by servitude to affluent white Californians, Rico Martinez steers clear of fair-haired, filthy rich young ladies. When perky wedding planner Trisha requires more than just his floral expertise to make the wedding she's planning a success, what's a sympathetic gentleman to do? Especially since he's falling for her--big time. Until he discovers she isn't just a simple, dog-rescuing wedding planner, but the sister of the bride…and daughter of Almendra's most affluent man!

Review: NICE!! So, when I started this one I was immediately pulled in. Though in the beginning I got a bit lost with the large amount of secondary characters that showed up and all the conversation between them, it didn't detract from the appeal of the story.

And let me tell you that once things got going I just couldn't stop reading. WONDERFUL story! Tell me if you can what better feeling is there than knowing you are loved for who you are rather than what you are?

Ms Bancroft has done a wonderful job and I can't wait to see more from her!

Southern Comfort by Theresa Lynn Hall

2010-01-31T06:32:00.000-08:00

Story: 8

Presentation: 9

Total: 17

Publisher: White Rose Publishing

Christian Inspirational

To Purchase

Blurb: Beth McDonald has a secret—a secret that is costing a lot of people their lives. With no where to turn, she leaves her dream job in the city and heads for a small town in Texas to a place where no one will find her. Tired of running, she turns to the sheriff for help and soon finds herself fighting for more than just her life. Sheriff Clint Fisher has his life just where he wants it—peaceful and happy. But when the beautiful D.A. walks into his office, his world is turned upside down. The confident sheriff is pretty sure he can keep her alive…but can he keep her forever?

Review: Faith filled, fast paced with a bit of suspense :)

Ms Hall has penned an interesting story that hits the heart of renewing faith when things get down. Complications throw these two together and sparks fly. The faith filled sheriff renews Beth's belief in Him and what the power of worship can do for a person.

I can't wait to see what this author has coming next :)

Prodigal by Robin Bayne

2010-01-31T06:28:00.000-08:00

Story: 7.5
Presentation: 9
Total: 16.5
Publisher: White Rose Publishing
Christian Inspirational
To Purchase

Blurb: Daniel Gardner is making a grand entrance at his brother’s wedding. The problem is, no one has seen him in years. Unsure of his welcome, this prodigal son needs the years and the hearts of his family to miraculously melt…but he may not be the only one needing to make amends. Lane Taylor doesn’t realize how much she still loves Daniel until she’s standing face-to-face with him after so many years apart. Once upon a time, they’d dreamed of a life together. Now, when it seems they might get a second chance, she has to decide whether to divulge the secret she’s sure will shatter their happily-ever-after.

Review: I have to say that this one really made me stop and think. When Lane tells her secret, Daniel's reaction at first really isn't what any woman wants to hear. HOWEVER... everything works itself out for a good ending.

With good characters and solid story, this one is one that delivers a message about discovering what you really want in life and taking stock of what you have. What is important to you and your future and what are you willing to do to get it?

Ms Bayne has done a good job of delivering a faith filled love story that will make you think. Good Job!

The Open Face of Heaven by BK Reeves

2010-01-24T14:34:00.000-08:00

Story: 9
Presentation: 9
Total: 18
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Historical Romance
To Purchase

Blurb: Just what the doctor ordered... After losing her parents, Milly Blakely cut her hair and pretended to be younger to get on the Orphan Train. She’s come a long way to find a new family. Her heart hungers for someone to love. When she spies a frail and sick-looking young woman with a frowning, yet handsome man at the Orphan Train’s stop in Addison, Kansas, she knows she can help these people and can’t wait to get started. But can she love these hurting people without getting hurt herself? Rad Powell’s wife, Frances, is dying. He gives in to her wish for a companion and takes in Milly Blakely. Milly is a blessing and so much more than a mere companion during Frances’ last days. After the loss of his wife, he realizes how much this young woman has changed his life and touched his bruised heart. Can he find a second chance at love?

Review: What a wonderful historical! This was just what I needed :) A sweet story about love, letting go, finding your place in the world and loving again.

Ms Reeves has gripped me in the past with another of her other works and this is just another peg in the wall as far as I am concerned, for an author who really knows how to create a tale with characters and a plot that really tugs on the heart strings :)

As this story is the second in the Orphan Trail series, I can assure you I will be keeping my eyes peeled for the rest to come. I can't wait to see what Ms Reeves gives us next :)

Johnny B. Goode for Christmas by Kimberlee R. Mendoza

2010-01-08T19:13:00.000-08:00

Story: 9.5
Presentation: 9
Total: 18.5
Publisher: White Rose Press
Sweet Holiday
To Purchase

Blurb: Emma has returned to her high school to teach art and literature. Despite painful memories close to a "Carrie" experience, she agrees to chaperone the school Christmas dance.She is barely holding it together, and then it gets worse. Johnny B. Goode, the jerk from high school who caused her so much pain, has just been hired as the new P.E. coach. It is hard enough to return to the scene of the crime, but to have to look at the cause of all her adolescence angst is too much. Though Emma makes sure Johnny knows she wants nothing to do with him, he isn't easily deterred.Can Johnny be good this Christmas, or will Emma experience the same heartache again?

Review: Have you ever read a book that just tugs at every emotion you have and then some? Let me just say that this was one that twisted me up and spit me out.....in a good way!
I LOVED every thing about this story! Not one thing wrong with it other than it ended!!!! I didn't want it to. I wanted to keep reading but alas, I realize the story had to end sometime, I am just thrilled that Ms Mendoza allowed me to come along on the journey :)
*SNAPS* on a job superbly done!!!!I just can't say enough good stuff but I know if I don't stop this review right now I will talk myself into re-reading it.....for the third time :)

Karaoke Cowgirl by Stacy Dawn

2010-01-06T10:28:00.000-08:00

Story: 8
Presentation: 9
Total: 17
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Sweet Cowboy Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: How far would you go to attract the man of your dreams? Ally Standish re-invents herself every Saturday night to sing for her cowboy. But when they come face to face in the light of a normal day—and he discovers the real Ally—will he let her sing him more love songs or will the music die for good.

Review: I love a good sweet story that makes me smile and leaves me with a fuzzy light hearted feeling when it is over. Every Saturday night these two go through the same old song and dance. They are drawn to each other but feel certain they just aren't good enough for the other.

I got a good chuckle at the end when they finally meet "face to face". A cute ending for a really cute story. I will be on the look out for more from Ms Dawn as she did a great job crafting a wonderful little romance with great characters, a good story line and all the believability you can pack into such a short story. :) Was a Winner for me :)
Posted by

Roan's Redemption by BK Reeves

2010-01-02T10:46:00.000-08:00

Story: 8
Presentation: 9
Total: 17
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Historical Western Sweet
To Purchase

Blurb: Oklahoma Territory 1892Addie McKenna finished digging the grave at sundown. She had to get Mattie in the ground tonight; tomorrow would be another scorcher. The dog barked as Addie climbed from the grave. A stranger driving a buckboard loomed from the shadows. As he came closer, Addie's breath caught. Roan McLeod! She kept her face blank. He was a married man.Roan McLeod looked at Addie McKenna, alone beside the open grave. Four months since he'd seen her. His nights had been haunted by this red-haired girl, haunted by forbidden images of them together as he opened his mouth on Addie's and removed her clothes. Those were shameful thoughts for a man who had buried his wife and daughter only ten days ago.

Review: An intereseting sweet western romance that really gives a glimpse at what life could be like.

Ms Reeves has created a tale about family, loss and love. Sometimes you just have to wait for the right time to let your heart take over. But when the time is right it all just falls into place. This tale is a good one that really shows you how things can get in the way for a couple but when all the fuzz clears, the sky brightens and hope is in fact, not lost.

That Speacial Someone by Jane Bierce

2009-12-17T16:12:00.000-08:00

Story: 7

Presentation: 8

Total: 15

Publisher: Awe-Struck

Contemporary Sweet Holiday

To Purchase

Blurb: Tired of being the sales rep for his father's firm, Edward finds the home office just as hazardous. Lumbered with finding a replacement for the firm's CFO, Edward suspects the best man for the job is a woman.Toni Rovere can be easily overlooked—until Edward finds that he could learn a thing or two about business from her.

Review: Now here is a sweet story that is just as the genre describes.....sweet. Sometimes it takes a bit to realize that what you need is right under your nose, no matter if you are a business owner or a person looking for your other half.

I have to say that I did enjoy watching these two try to deal with the emotions they were feeling while trying to maintain a good working relationship and follow the rules. Complete with good secondary characters and a nice plot, this is one that should be read and enjoyed when you are looking for an easy read that will leave you with a good feeling in your chest at the end.

Beyond the Homestretch by Lynn Reardon

2009-12-12T00:24:00.000-08:00

Story: 10

Presentation: 10

Total: 20

Equine Non-Fiction

To Purchase

Blurb: Reardon shares an unlikely story. In 2002, she quit her Washington DC–area office job and moved to Texas to open the racehorse placement program LOPE (LoneStar Outreach to Place Ex-Racers). Though now the director of this high-profile organization that has helped transition more than 725 ex-racehorses into new homes, Reardon didn’t learn to ride until she was an adult.At the LOPE adoption ranch, Reardon encountered dozens of unruly racehorses, all with special needs, unusual histories and vivid personalities. As she fumbled to help them make the shift to new careers, they returned the favor — by becoming her most memorable mentors in horsemanship and life philosophy.

The horses themselves are a central focus of the book, with their fascinating racing careers, spirited natures and gripping veterinary needs. Reardon’s own story, that of a stressed-out office worker turned capable ranch hand, is told through her experiences with the horses.

Review: What little girl doesn't lay in her bed at night clutching her faithful stuffed pony to her chest whispering prayers to be blessed with horses? Pounding hooves and flowing manes. The brush of a velvet muzzle across her cheek. The soft puff of warm breath lovingly huffed into her hair. The intoxicating aroma of fresh hay and horse. Yeah, yeah, can you tell I'm a horse girl :)

When I found out Ms Reardon was writing a book about her ranch and the horses she has helped I was THRILLED!!! Who wouldn't be? Whether you are an owner, an equine professional or just a little horse crazy, this tantalizing tale gives a spectacular glimpse into the life of a race horse.I laughed, cried, gasped and laughed a bit more. In the end when I breathlessly finished the book I was smiling and speechless. All I could do was close the hardback and run my fingers over the dust jacket.

Ms Reardon has captured the magic, and there truly is a magic about horses. She has shown us a clear picture that all we need do to see it is open our hearts and minds.Second chances are hard enough to come by, but when you are granted one sometimes the road you have to take can be painful, scary, filled with new friends and at the end of the yellow brick road hopefully love and a forever home :) *SNAPS* Lynn on such a fantastic job. Both on the book and the wonderful work that you do at the ranch. I don't know that I want to envision a world without a place like LOPE. Every deserves to be granted the ability to have a happy life :)

**Along with this review please drop by our interview site on Dec 13th thru the 19th to read an interview from Lynn Reardon and be sure to leave comments on the review and interview. We will be giving a copy of this book to one lucky poster**

Love Lilies & The Unbroken Straw by Teri Wilson

2009-12-10T19:06:00.001-08:00

Story: 9
Presentation: 9
Total: 18
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Sweet Lite Paranormal
To Purchase

Blurb: Christabel Wilde’s life has just turned upside-down. With little more than the clothes on her back and her newly rescued Chihuahua tucked under her arm, she makes a pledge to start over and applies for a job as a groom at a horse rescue farm. Nevermind that she’s never been up close to a horse before, she has a bigger secret to hide. A mysterious gift her new neighbor, Dr. Declan Armstrong, is determined to uncover. When the irresistible veterinarian volunteers to give her riding lessons, Christabel knows it could be the end of her secret. With the Easter holiday approaching, she tries to remember that sometimes what looks like the end is really a new beginning.

Review: What a truly wonderful, heartwarming tale about miracles, love and second chances....for people and animals alike :)As a second in a series this story was a great follow up to the first. Can be read as a stand alone or as intended by the author, a sequel. Great plot, bright imagination, characters that just reach out and touch your heart and a mix of animals that will make you smile.Any animal lover, horse nut or romance lover will find this tale a delight. Ms Wilson has done it again to be sure. Don't miss this heartwarming tale!

A Cinderella Christmas by Stacy Dawn

2009-12-05T08:17:00.000-08:00

Story: 9

Presentation: 9

Total: 18

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Contemporary Sweet Holiday

To Purchase

Blurb: Her mother’s ridiculous idea to gift her with 'a man' for Christmas is driving Angie Bellini insane! Every bachelor and his brother in Noelle are asking her to save them a dance at the upcoming wedding of Santa Claus Holloran’s daughter. What’s a girl to do to keep her sanity and thwart a scheming mother? Date the one man in town her mother despises, of course.Wes O’Connor doesn’t like the plan Angie has coerced him into for two reasons: 1) He’s still paying for the last time those big brown eyes made him do something stupid and 2) He doesn’t want to 'pretend' to date the beautiful baker, he wants the fairytale to turn into a real happily-ever-after.Their ending may not be so happy, though, when they discover they aren't the only players in their little game of make-believe.

Review: A perfectly delightful Christmas story of small town life, meddling moms, a sexy single man and......a cow drawn sleigh? What a riot! the town of Noelle was full of surprises, smiles and a twist or two.

This sweet Holiday title is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit and leave you with warm fuzzies in the end. I couldn't stop smiling for the rest of the day after finishing this one. Intimate and endearing, all the characters were well thought out and quirky :) The plot was solid and the writing wonderful.

Start the season off with a heartwarming Holiday read. You won't be sorry :)

Cup of Joe by Teri Wilson

2009-12-04T21:09:00.000-08:00

Story: 9

Presentation: 9

Total: 18

Publisher: White Rose Publishing

Contemporary Inspirational

To Purchase

Blurb: Goldie thinks she's prepared for the death of her doting Grandpa who's raised her since childhood. But after his passing, she finds herself curled up on the sofa watching television, feet clad in fuzzy slippers. She knows God has a new plan for her life, but she's simply too tired to figure out what it is. To make matters worse, sweet, shy coffee shop owner, Joe Montgomery, keeps showing up on her doorstep with morning coffee. When she tells him emphatically that she doesn't like coffee—never has and never will—he shows up with a dog instead! As she takes steps to start a new life, with her new puppy scampering playfully at her side, Goldie begins to realize a cup of Joe just might be what she's needed all along.

Review: What a great feel good love story! Ms Wilson does such a great job creating her stories, her characters always have wonderful depth, the animals are super nifty and the Lord is always there :) lending a helping hand, guiding those who seek him and showing those who ask the wonder of His way.

This heartwarming inspirational is filled with laughs, love and friendships that really open your eyes and take you to new heights. The death of a loved one is a challenge and can be devastating, this tender tale takes us for a ride along one couples discovery that sometimes death opens more doors than it closes.

It is easy to see why this story won a prize in the SARA Merritt contest this year! *SNAPS* Ms Wilson on such an endearing, truly inspiring love story :)

Next Door Santa by Tamelia Tumlin

2009-12-02T07:10:00.001-08:00

Story: 8

Presentation: 9

Total: 17

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Sweet Holiday

To Purchase

Blurb: Holly Winters doesn't do Christmas. Not anymore anyway. Unfortunately, her new neighbor, Lake Carrington, does-with enough Christmas cheer to rival Santa himself. But, Holly soon discovers that behind the twinkling lights, the heartwarming displays, and the sexy man himself lies a pain so deep that it might-just might-melt her own hardened heart. Will Lake turn Mrs. Scrooge into Mrs. Clause afterall?

Review: A wonderfully sweet Holiday tale that really hits home and opens your eyes that sometimes there is more going on that what you think. Never trust first impressions. Lake has his own troubles that put Holly's to shame but I love the way he handles them.It really brought the story to life and gave me hope for the upcoming season of cheer.No matter how bad you have it, just remember somewhere out there are folks who have it worse and don't let it drag them down.

A wonderful tale that is going to put a smile on your face and warm your heart!

Snow Kissed by Cindy K Green

2009-11-26T15:47:00.001-08:00

Story: 9
Presentation: 9
Total: 18
Publisher: White Rose Publishing
Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: Today is one of those days Logan Reilly wished he'd stayed in bed. Not only does he have to deal with the annoying Winter Wonderland Carnival but his close friend, that whimsical lover of snow, Holly Armstrong, is leaving town forever. The question is, why didn't she tell him and why today, of all days, does he realize she might be more than a friend?
Holly can no longer stay in town knowing the man she loves only sees her as a friend. It's time to move on. Besides, she has other career prospects.
As the carnival unfolds, watch God work in amazing ways. Can He change Holly's mind and make her stay? Can He help Logan see beyond the friendship?
Only time can tell.

Review: This is the operfect example of a story that is better the second time around. If you are a follower of my reviews, you know what a sucker I am for a "friends to lovers" story and this one is a great one :) A super sweet tale of a gruff mechanic and the woman he doesn't want to live without.

An emotion pulling tale that gives a feel good sensation that will be renewed everytime you think about the story after you are done with it.

*SNAPS* Ms Green on a tale that just keeps me coming back again and again and again :)

Keeper of My Heart by Therese M. Travis

2009-11-20T10:29:00.000-08:00

Story: 8
Presentation: 9
Total: 17
Publisher: White Rose Publishing
Vintage Historical Inspirational
To Purchase

Blurb: A bitter heiress refuses to trust man or God...until a faithful veterinarian challenges her beliefs. Determined to keep her heart safe from betrayal, Rebecca denies both God and the man who calls to her, certain his love can never be true enough to bring her back to her faith and a future with him. Adam is equally entranced, but Rebecca's denial of faith proves a deterrent to pursuing a relationship with her. But now that Rebecca has taken a job in Adam's animal clinic, an attraction that neither one believes can work begins to grow.

Review: A captivating read with characters that really come to life. A time or two I wanted to reach into the book and shake Rebecca for her lack of faith and her blame towards God for the man who broke her heart. I wanted to sit her down and tell her It's not His fault that guy was a jerk! But I also realize there are times when people blame the Lord for things they shouldn't.

Enter Adam. a sweet interesting vet who is trying to find a place to call home and start a new practice. He was such a sweety that I had tears in my eyes more than once.

A well writen story that deserves *SNAPS* Here's to Ms Travis on a job well done :)

Wrapped in Your Arms by Jude Stephens

2009-11-15T16:39:00.001-08:00

Story: 7
Presentation: 5
Total: 12
Publisher: Hearts on Fire Press
Holiday Sweet Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: Michele Moretti is trying to avoid Christmas with her family. Since her divorce, holidays with her happily married siblings have been painful.. This Christmas she decides to forgo the awkward family holiday scene and hit the beach. Michele believes that it’s time to put her past behind her and open herself up to new relationships.Kyle Hyde is restless. He gave up a successful career on Wall Street to run a hotel on St. Martins. After turning the hotel in a thriving business he feels the beginnings of his constant craving for change.Will they end up wrapped in each other's arms or will a wedding band tear them apart?

Review: *Sigh* The plot and story line for this little tale was wonderfully promising. I felt the editing fell sadly short in polishing this tale to what it could have been. Though the story had a very novice feel I think with some time this author will be one to watch for!

I found myself wishing the story would have been longer so I could have seen more of the hilarious things these two went through during her stay. I have to admit that the first scene had me laughing so hard I though I was going to pee in my pants :)

Ms Stephens, I will be keeping my eyes peeled for your name as I have high hopes for your next tale :)

Online Angel by Kelly Abell

2009-11-15T16:15:00.000-08:00

Story: 8
Presentation: 8
Total: 16
Publisher: Hearts on Fire Press
Holiday Sweet Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: An innocent trip to an online store to buy her three year old son a Christmas gift turns into a living nightmare for Cheryl Rubio. Mark, her poker obsessed husband has just cleaned out their entire savings account for a high stakes poker tournament three weeks before Christmas. On top of that he’s decided to leave her and the son he never wanted because Cheryl “doesn’t get him”.
Devastated, scared and confused Cheryl must find a way to keep her struggling law practice alive and provide some kind of Christmas for Robbie. Thoughts of past mistakes haunt her and she begins to think about her first love Kevin Lawson, a man she dumped because she didn’t feel he was ambitious enough to fit into her life plan.
Kevin is just coming out of a recent divorce to a woman who could never measure up to Cheryl. He never should have married her in the first place. One day out of curiosity Kevin searches for Cheryl on ConnectPing.com a social networking site. When he finds her neither one of them can believe the coincidence of the timing of their reconnection, or that for the last four years they have lived within 30 minutes of each other in Atlanta, Georgia.
Can Kevin and Cheryl put past hurts behind them and reconnect to have the love they should have had all along? Will Cheryl, whose been praying for a Christmas miracle, find herself an Online Angel?

Review: This was a pleasantly pleasing holiday tale designed to give hope not only to those who think their life is in the potty, but to give hope to past relationships and the what if's. Sometimes all you need is a friend and the dark of night just doesn't seem quite so dismal.

A definite feel good story for the upcoming holiday season that should be a good read for everyone. No matter your walk in life. Take a peek at this little story and let your feelings flow. I promise a smile and warm fuzzies :)

Marrying The Invisible Man by Rachel Michaels

2009-11-15T16:03:00.000-08:00

Story: 8
Presentation: 9
Total: 17
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Contemporary Sweet
To Purchase

Blurb: Katie Bartlett’s mother is driving her crazy, and she'll do whatever it takes to get her wedding-obsessed mother off her back. Thanks to a joking comment from her best friend, David, Katie decides she to have a fake wedding, to a fake groom--the Invisible Man.David Williams has been Katie’s best friend since kindergarten. He knows Katie doesn’t see him as anything more, but the further she gets into planning her wedding to another man—albeit a fictional one—the worse he feels.With the wedding underway will Katie finally realize the Invisible Man is David?

Review: I am a sucker for friends to lovers stories :) Who isn't? What better way to begin a relationship than with a solid base. The ones that really get me are the ones like this. Friends for years and then suddenly something changes. A different light is cast and one sees something in the other that has always been there.Wonderfully written characters and vivid imagery with a funny plot and a mom who just can't seen to stay out of her daughters business :)A totally sweet, feel good story about what lengths people will go to for the ones they love. I tip my hat to Ms Michaels on a job well done :)

Child of My Heart by Merry Stahel

2009-11-07T14:32:00.000-08:00

Story: 9

Presentation: 9

Total: 18

Publisher: White Rose Publishing

Contemporary Inspirational

To Purchase

Blurb: Hannah didn’t expect to be raising her mother’s surrogate child. But Baby Seth’s parents also died, and he has no one else...Until Uncle Aaron shows up, demanding that Hannah give up her half-brother to his family, since genetically, Seth is their son.
Can the love of one tiny baby unite two families?

Review: LOVED IT!!! This is one of those little numbers that you read and when you get to the end you just want to start all over again. Without a doubt this is one of the best books I have read in awhile.

Though I felt I was reading a Sweet contemporary and not really an inspirational, I fell in love with the characters, the plot, the smart quirky way Hannah puts Aaron in his place when he comes to talk about baby Seth, and the resolution left me feeling good all over. A total winner ;)

A Love for Eternity by L. M. Gonzalez

2009-11-03T16:55:00.000-08:00

Story: 8

Presentation: 8

Total: 16

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Recent Historical

To Purchase

Blurb: At eighteen, Christina Ramos meets the love of her life, yet she allows her mother to talk her into marrying someone else. Widowed fifty years later, Christina finds herself transported back to 1955 to that magical day she first meets Joe Morado.Second chances don’t happen very often, and this time she vows to stay with the man of her dreams forever. No matter what.…Because a love that transcends time is A Love for Eternity

Review: Haven't we all wondered about the what ifs in our pasts at some point of another? This wonderful, sweet little tale is a glimmer of what could happen if the what ifs were allowed to happen.
Very cute and heart warming, this tale is a definite read for those who enjoy a sweet read with heartwarming characters and a good romance. Ms Gonzalez has done a great job and I can't wait to read more of her work.

Trust Your Heart by Christine Columbus

2009-11-03T16:51:00.000-08:00

Story: 9

Presentation: 9

Total: 18

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Sweet Contemporary

To Purchase

Blurb: Michelle, a divorced mother of two preschool children living in a Minneapolis suburb, maintains her subscription to her hometown newspaper. So when she bumps into childhood friend David, she already knew he was successful and a bachelor, but what the paper forgot to mention was how he had matured into a handsome man.Memories of their past resurface, and once more, she envisions playing house with him. Although this time it's the adult-rated version, where he's selling software that threatens her job, her co-workers refuse to play nice, her ex-husband is acting just plain weird and the hometown paper is in an uproar over who is sending her flowers and who she should date. Michelle doesn’t know whom to believe until she steps back and looks deep within and trusts her heart.

Review: WOW!!!! I am not sure if I have ever wanted to slap so many secondary characters in my life! Ms Columbus, you have done such a fabulous job creating the emotions for this story that I wanted to jump into the pages and wring the necks of a couple of the nasty people who were total jerks to Michelle.Both main characters were so wonderful. Emotion ran rampant and more than once I experienced the emotion right along with them. When I read a story that can do that, I am at a loss for words. The beginning, middle and end left me a very satisfied reader. *Snaps* for a job well done and a toast for more to come from this talented author :)

Flying Free by Amber Polo

2009-11-03T16:47:00.000-08:00

Story: 8

Presentation: 8

Total: 16

Publisher: Treble Heart Books

Contemporary

To Purchase

Blurb: Lia thinks she’s going to get her pilot’s license, sell her father’s Arizona airpark house, go back to helping beef producers sell meat, and probably find a guy just like the cheating husband who bankrupted her.Seth thinks he’s come to Arizona to build a spiritual center, escape the community and wife that betrayed him, and create a new beginning much like the contemplative, vegetarian life he left.While Lia tries to hide and Seth tries to fit in, their attraction, with a little help from their wacky senior citizen neighbors, pulls them together. All they have to do is conquer the fear of flying and their fear of love.

Review: Have you ever read a book that entertained and opened your eyes to new and interesting facts? If not then I suggest you take a look at this one. A nifty, sweet story filled with planes, airpark life and a super sexy vegan Budhist that anyone would find hard to resist. A heart warming tale about discovering what is really important in life.....sometimes a little later than you had hoped, but finding it just the same. Creative, quirky characters really set this story alive and give it a spark.Good work Ms. Polo a true enjoyment :)

That Magic Moment by Maureen L. Bonatch

2009-10-30T17:01:00.001-07:00

Story: 9
Presentation: 9
Total: 18
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Sweet Paranormal Halloween Themed
To Purchase

Blurb: Can love cross the boundaries mortals have erected to reject all that cannot be explained?
As the last witch in the Turner line, Celeste doesn’t know if she’s finally found true love or if her grandma cast a love spell to continue the Turner line. Dane Johns is a man not easily forgotten, but that’s exactly what Celeste plans to do. Because he has one big flaw. He’s a mortal.
Dane Johns doesn’t know it but he’s under a spell, and Celeste Turner is the cure. Mysteriously healing his injury while captivating his heart, Dane is enchanted. Although once he discovers Celeste’s secret he must decide if he’s charmed enough to not only accept love into his life, but the world of magic.

Review: Holy Hexes and Halloween Hubbub! What a nifty little morsel, just enough to get you in gear for the upcoming festivities. With wonderfully written characters, a grandmother who can't seem to stop "helping out" and a witch who wants nothing more than her own happily ever after :)

A spellbinding treat, non-fattening of course, designed to make your heart flutter and leave you satisfied and full of warm fuzzies :)

Stars in Her Eyes by Beverly Breton

2009-10-30T16:39:00.000-07:00

Story: 6

Presentation: 6

Total: 12

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Sweet Contemporary

To Purchase

Blurb: If Dream Man never comes knocking, at least she’ll own the door. That’s 28-year-old paralegal Karen’s new plan, anyhow, to buy her own home, and the reason she’s been working every weekend-- until she bends to her best friend’s pressure to spend a Saturday at the wave pool. Determined not to be derailed by another dead-end relationship, she avoids looking at the cute curly-haired guy—his friends call him Spence-- carousing out in the waves. But the tide turns as she’s caught unaware, a wave pool virgin on her first time in, and swept into a head-on collision with one of his friends. When she manages to stand and open her eyes, the world has disappeared. She sees only Spence surrounded by dancing stars. Has she been knocked silly, or is he gazing right back at her?

Review: Well...what can I say? When I got this one I was very hopeful as the blurb sounds very tempting and sweet. Once I got started reading however, I found a few things that I had issues with.

There was a plethora of sentences that I had to re-read several times before they made sense to me. There was reference to one of the men, Mr Hollywood, who was in the wave pool, as a walrus. Now to me when I think of a walrus I think of large body, street sweeper mustache and a bit on the gruff side. Not very attractive ;) There were also some misturned quotes.

The flowery use of some of the writing "As if magic water wings had sprouted on her, ones that worked on land, she floated in wonder of him and her together." made the story a bit jarring for me to read.

Pumpkinnapper by Linda Banche

2009-10-30T16:21:00.000-07:00

Story: 7.5
Presentation: 9
Total: 16.5
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Historical Romance Halloween Themed
Rating: Sensual
To Purchase

Blurb: Pumpkin thieves, a youthful love rekindled, and a jealous goose. Oh my!
Last night someone tried to steal the widowed Mrs. Emily Metcalfe's pumpkins. She's certain the culprit is her old childhood nemesis and the secret love of her youth, whom she hasn't seen in ten years.
Henry, Baron Grey has never forgotten the girl he loved, but couldn’t pursue, and so decides to catch Emily's would-be thief. Even after she reveals his childhood nickname--the one he would rather forget. And even after her jealous pet goose bites him in an embarrassing place.
Oh, the things a man will do for love.

Review: Goose me again! Too cute!!! I laughed so hard I thought I was going to embarrass myself in my living room :) What a cute little story. With a Sensual Rating it made for a great light hearted read.

The only issue I had was with the hero. He seemed to fluctuate between propriety and VERY flirtatious in the same breath. I found it a bit out of character for him to switch gears so fast but all in all still made for a good hero and a fantastic read.

Do You Hear What I Hear by Teri Wilson

2009-10-25T10:48:00.000-07:00

Story:8
Presentation:8
Total Score 16
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
To Purchase
Sweet full length novel

BLURB: As a child, Simone Littleton adores the European folktale that animals are given the gift of speech at midnight on Christmas Eve. She makes a wish to talk to animals "forever and ever" and, when her pet Dalmatian asks her for a biscuit, she discovers her wish has been granted. Now Simone is all grown up and she uses her unique gift to rehabilitate unwanted horses. When racehorse trainer Chet Wallace rolls into San Antonio, with chocolate eyes and dimples blazing beneath his black Stetson, romantic sparks fly. He is immediately drawn to the beautiful woman who has a mesmerizing affect on both his horses and his dog, but his less than enthusiastic response to Simone's claims threatens their budding romance. It takes a scheming Jack Russell terrier and a dose of Christmas magic to convince Chet she just may be telling the truth.

REVIEW: This was a cute story. A good make you feel warm and fuzzy, romance with no sex. I adore the way Ms Wilson uses the animals in her writing and the personality she gives to them. A unique spin, but not so far out of the realm of possibility that you find the story unbelievable.
As a child growing up, I lived on my mothers 12 acres and went to my family ranch all the time. I was surounded by a variety of animals from dogs and cats, to birds of every sort, cows and horses, pigs and rabbits.........Well, you get the idea :) I think most little girls who loved animals as much as I did always wanted to be able to actually talk to them. Maybe that is what pulled me to this story.
The fact that this story is the first book in a series Ms Wilson has called Hoofbeats & Heartstrings may have played into my purchase. Or maybe it was that a portion of the proceeds go to an equine rescue.....Then again maybe it was all the factors put together more than anything.
The characters in the story were real life people with real issues. The story will open eyes to the cruelty that can and does happen to unwanded equines when they have no one to turn to. When they are cast aside and all hope is lost. Perhaps if there were more people who took the extra step, made just a small donation, more horses could be spared unimaginable horors.
This story can be bought in E-Book or Print version. Buy a book......Help save the life of a horse......Give them a second chance at a wonderful life!
Ms. Wilson........My hats off to you. I look forward to the next in this series.

Smuggler of the Heart by JoAnn Carter

2009-10-25T10:41:00.000-07:00

Story: 8

Presentation: 9

Total: 17

Publisher: White Rose Publishing

Inspirational Romance

To Purchase

Blurb: Disheartened and tired, Samantha Warren returns to Vermont during the winter break. Her passion for history rekindles after finding an old smuggler’s chest hidden in her grandparents' attic. Will she be able to return to New Jersey without her heart being smuggled like the chest once was? Or is it already too late?

Review: Have you ever read an Inspy that touched you so, that it left goose bumps and a warm soft feeling in your chest? This is one of the few that made me feel that way. The way the author expressed the heroines feeling's in her prayers to God left me with a wonderful ache.This short story is just enough, at 37 pages, to whet your appetite and give you warm fuzzies about the relationship with the Lord and His place in your life and heart.For me the romance, while there, took second place to Sam's search for a renewed faith. Not a Happily Ever After, but a Happy with the Promise for the Future, it was enough and I still felt the story itself was a worthwhile read. Thank you to Ms Carter, a good Inspy is hard to find sometimes and yours qualifies :)

Snakes and Jails and Puppy Dog Tails by Mallary Mitchell

2009-10-25T10:26:00.000-07:00

Story: 7
Presentation: 8
Total: 15
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Historical Western Romance
To Purchase

Blurb: Spinster Arabella Trask loves only one man, but he betrayed her. Levi Wallace left her for another and married the woman who carried his child. Now a widower, Levi is injured and desperately needs Arabella's help. Can she risk her heart again?As he lays dying from a snake bite...Levi's one regret is losing Bella. He never had the chance to tell her the child wasn't his. He married to save his brother's sorry hide and give the child a name. He longs to have Bella in his life again--will it take divine intervention to get her back?

Review: A very cute story with a heart warming second chance at love theme. One of the things I love about this nifty little short is the measures Levi went to to protect his brother and dad. Giving up his own love for the greater good of his family really touched me. The kids were adorable, the love true and standing up to the test of time and heartbreak in the light of what really happened when the truth is finally revealed.
Ms Mitchell has done a great job and I look forward to reading more from this author.

House of Wacks by Denise Gwen

2009-10-25T10:24:00.001-07:00

Story: 7
Presentation: 9
Total: 16
Publisher: The WIld Rose Press
Young Adult
To Purchase

Blurb: Little did Jordan Meadows realize, when Dad insisted she get a job, it would turn out to be such an amazing summer! Who would have guessed that all her eyebrow, bikini, and leg waxes at Tranquility Spa would pay off as job experience? Working behind the scenes on the set of House of Wax IX: Return of the Revengenator, she becomes the go-to girl for paraffin wax. Then she meets Keith Charles, a band nerd from her high school. Between draping his freckled arms with wax and making sure he looks extra clotty, she’s stunned to find herself falling in love with someone outside her own clique. As filming and the summer draw to a close, she’s a changed girl, for sure. She's made friends with people she never would have associated with at North High School, but what about her friends, the awesome foursome? Should she break up with Keith, since he’s not a member of her exclusive, inner circle? Or is it time to branch out and make new friends?

Review: A great little page turner to add to the YA line in any library. The trials and tribulations of teen years can be difficult......Okay, okay, they are difficult. For everyone. The teen, parents, friends. It's all about finding out who you are, coming into your own, growing up and taking responsability. This story did a wonderful job at covering all the basis.
Many congrats Ms Gwen. And here is to many more :)

Love's Sweet Attack by Loree Lough

2009-10-25T10:16:00.000-07:00

Story: 6

Presentation: 7

Total: 13

Publisher: White Rose Publishing

Inspirational Romance

To Purchase

Blurb: When karate expert, Paige Anderson, meets ex-football star, Dean Porter, people fall head over heels--literally!Despite very different backgrounds, it's quickly obvious they have much in common. But will the dark secret that caused her to turn from God also keep her from Dean? Or will he help her accept that the Almighty loves her as much as he does--all in time for both of them to score the goal of a lifetime?

Review: Eh.....I really liked the premise of the story, but I had some issues with it. There were some editing issues that I think should have been caught. The fist time he comes over for dinner before he gets there she changes clothes and puts on shoes. Then after he gets there she closes the fridge with her mysteriously bare foot......THE MYSTERY OF THE DISAPPEARING SHOE!All in all I liked both of the main characters but I felt the story was weighed down with some scenes that I felt had no major part in the story and the book would have been fine without them. I had a bit of a hard time believing that the heroine would have gotten so bent out of shape during the black moment. But that's just me.

I felt that God came a little late into the story as His first mention wasn't until page 22 then not again until page 51 and then has 13 appearances. I just felt for an Inspy there could have been more about the Lord and his part in the relationship and the lives of the characters before the last 25 pages.

I certainly plan to read more by this author as I feel she has great promise.

A Love for Eternity by L. M. Gonzalez

2009-10-25T09:19:00.000-07:00

Story: 8
Presentation: 8
Total: 16
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Recent Historical
To Purchase

Blurb: At eighteen, Christina Ramos meets the love of her life, yet she allows her mother to talk her into marrying someone else. Widowed fifty years later, Christina finds herself transported back to 1955 to that magical day she first meets Joe Morado.Second chances don’t happen very often, and this time she vows to stay with the man of her dreams forever. No matter what.…Because a love that transcends time is A Love for Eternity

Review: Haven't we all wondered about the what ifs in our pasts at some point of another? This wonderful, sweet little tale is a glimmer of what could happen if the what ifs were allowed to happen.
Very cute and heart warming, this tale is a definite read for those who enjoy a sweet read with heartwarming characters and a good romance. Ms Gonzalez has done a great job and I can't wait to read more of her work.

Trust Your Heart by Christine Columbus

2009-10-23T17:11:00.000-07:00

Story: 9
Presentation: 9
Total: 18
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Sweet Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: Michelle, a divorced mother of two preschool children living in a Minneapolis suburb, maintains her subscription to her hometown newspaper. So when she bumps into childhood friend David, she already knew he was successful and a bachelor, but what the paper forgot to mention was how he had matured into a handsome man.Memories of their past resurface, and once more, she envisions playing house with him. Although this time it's the adult-rated version, where he's selling software that threatens her job, her co-workers refuse to play nice, her ex-husband is acting just plain weird and the hometown paper is in an uproar over who is sending her flowers and who she should date. Michelle doesn’t know whom to believe until she steps back and looks deep within and trusts her heart.

Review: WOW!!!! I am not sure if I have ever wanted to slap so many secondary characters in my life! Ms Columbus, you have done such a fabulous job creating the emotions for this story that I wanted to jump into the pages and wring the necks of a couple of the nasty people who were total jerks to Michelle.Both main characters were so wonderful. Emotion ran rampant and more than once I experienced the emotion right along with them. When I read a story that can do that, I am at a loss for words. The beginning, middle and end left me a very satisfied reader. *Snaps* for a job well done and a toast for more to come from this talented author :)

Flying Free by Amber Polo

2009-10-23T17:05:00.000-07:00

Story: 8
Presentation: 8
Total: 16
Publisher: Treble Heart Books
Contemporary
To Purchase

Blurb: Lia thinks she’s going to get her pilot’s license, sell her father’s Arizona airpark house, go back to helping beef producers sell meat, and probably find a guy just like the cheating husband who bankrupted her.Seth thinks he’s come to Arizona to build a spiritual center, escape the community and wife that betrayed him, and create a new beginning much like the contemplative, vegetarian life he left.While Lia tries to hide and Seth tries to fit in, their attraction, with a little help from their wacky senior citizen neighbors, pulls them together. All they have to do is conquer the fear of flying and their fear of love.

Review: Have you ever read a book that entertained and opened your eyes to new and interesting facts? If not then I suggest you take a look at this one. A nifty, sweet story filled with planes, airpark life and a super sexy vegan Budhist that anyone would find hard to resist. A heart warming tale about discovering what is really important in life.....sometimes a little later than you had hoped, but finding it just the same. Creative, quirky characters really set this story alive and give it a spark.Good work Ms. Polo a true enjoyment :)