Reviewer's bookshelf: "The Saturday Night Supper Club" by Carla Laureano

Book Summary (Amazon): Denver chef Rachel Bishop has accomplished everything she’s dreamed and some things she never dared hope, like winning a James Beard Award and heading up her own fine-dining restaurant. But when a targeted smear campaign causes her to be pushed out of the business by her partners, she vows to do whatever it takes to get her life back . . . even if that means joining forces with the man who inadvertently set the disaster in motion.

Essayist Alex Kanin never imagined his pointed editorial would go viral. Ironically, his attempt to highlight the pitfalls of online criticism has the opposite effect: it revives his own flagging career by destroying that of a perfect stranger. Plagued by guilt-fueled writer’s block, Alex vows to do whatever he can to repair the damage. He just doesn’t expect his interest in the beautiful chef to turn personal.

Alex agrees to help rebuild Rachel’s tarnished image by offering his connections and his home to host an exclusive pop-up dinner party targeted to Denver’s most influential citizens: the Saturday Night Supper Club. As they work together to make the project a success, Rachel begins to realize Alex is not the unfeeling opportunist she once thought he was, and that perhaps there’s life―and love―outside the pressure-cooker of her chosen career. But can she give up her lifelong goals without losing her identity as well?

My thoughts...This book jumped out at me for two reasons. First, I loved Laureano's first book Five Days in Skye, which had just the right mix of character development, romance, and a great setting. Second, I loved the idea of reading a story about the behind the scenes life of a chef. We're big Food Network fans at our house...even our kids love watching it. I was not disappointed as I was able to mentally experience all of the amazing dishes that Rachel created. The attention to detail and creativity made me feel like I was right there in the story. I'm a visual person, so if a book can create vivid mental images in my mind as I'm reading, that's a winner winner chicken dinner in my book! : ) I know...I couldn't resist!

There are so many layers to this story and Laureano, once again, does a great job of developing each character from start to finish, particularly Rachel and Alex. I really loved Rachel's story. The journey she goes on could've completely caused her to shut down and never continue being a chef, but she uses her trials to take her on a journey to self-discovery. The risks she takes to do what her heart knows is true is inspiring.

Personal takeaway...Don't be afraid to step out in faith, even when the world thinks you're crazy. As a Christian, there are things that God has called me (and my family) to that other people couldn't understand. But every time we've taken that leap, we've seen amazing things come from it. 

Loved this book and would definitely recommend it!

**I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley to share my honest thoughts and opinions, which I did.**

Reviewer's bookshelf: "The Lacemaker" by Laura Frantz

Book Summary (Goodreads):When colonial Williamsburg explodes like a powder keg on the eve of the American Revolution, Lady Elisabeth "Liberty" Lawson is abandoned by her fiance and suspected of being a spy for the hated British. No one comes to her aid save the Patriot Noble Rynallt, a man with formidable enemies of his own. Liberty is left with a terrible choice. Will the Virginia belle turned lacemaker side with the radical revolutionaries, or stay true to her English roots? And at what cost?

Historical romance favorite Laura Frantz is back with a suspenseful story of love, betrayal, and new beginnings. With her meticulous eye for detail and her knack for creating living, breathing characters, Frantz continues to enchant historical fiction readers who long to feel they are a part of the story. 

My thoughts.... I'm seeing a lot of strong female characters in several of this year's upcoming novels. In The Lacemaker, Elisabeth transforms from a very dependent woman...oppressed by her strict, overbearing father...into "Liberty," a woman who discovers who she truly is: a woman of courage, independence, and resourcefulness. Her stubbornness was frustrating at times, but it added to her humanity and allowed her to learn and grow as a character. Her journey takes many different directions...I loved the plot twists!

And then there's Noble Rynallt. First of all, I love his name! Laura Frantz named her characters in this novel perfectly. While Liberty is searching for freedom in many forms, Noble is the strong and steady hero. In faith, he prepares a place for Liberty to be in his life without knowing what their future will hold. He is also willing to give up everything for those he loves for the sake of freedom. So much depth to this story, not to mention romantic tension at its finest, and so much detail that you feel like you stepped right in to the 18th century.

In the New Year, I'm going to add a little "takeaway" at the end of my reviews. Something that I can take from this work of fiction and apply to my own life. My takeaway from The Lacemaker: no matter how hard things are, we can stand strong and have courage. Our liberty is not in how strong we are in our own strength, but in the strength that God gives us to press on towards the goal He has for each of us. 

Be sure to check out The Lacemaker as well as the other amazing novels by author Laura Frantz. Happy Reading!

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher so that I could share my honest thoughts, which I did.*

Reviewer's Bookshelf: "The Austen Escape" by Katherine Reay

Book Summary: Falling into the past will change their futures forever.

Mary Davies finds safety in her ordered and productive life. Working as an engineer, she genuinely enjoys her job and her colleagues – particularly a certain adorable and intelligent consultant. But something is missing. When Mary’s estranged childhood friend, Isabel Dwyer offers her a two-week stay in a gorgeous manor house in England, she reluctantly agrees in hopes that the holiday will shake up her quiet life in just the right ways.

But Mary gets more than she bargained for when Isabel loses her memory and fully believes she lives in Jane Austen’s Bath. While Isabel rests and delights in the leisure of a Regency lady, attended by the other costume-clad guests, Mary uncovers startling truths about their shared past, who Isabel was, who she seems to be, and the man who now stands between them.

Outings are undertaken, misunderstandings play out, and dancing ensues as this company of clever, well-informed people, who have a great deal of conversation, work out their lives and hearts.

My thoughts... On the surface, this novel may seem like a Christian fiction version of Austenland. I actually haven't read that book, but saw the movie and thought the concept was very entertaining. In my single days I would've loved to have a Pride and Prejudice-like experience...dressing up in period clothing, staying in an English mansion, etc. But this book is no Austenland. Katherine Reay's novels have a uniqueness and depth all their own.

Of the books I have read of Katherine Reay's, I've noticed that the emotional and psychological journeys of the characters play a huge role in the plot. Mary and Isabel have a complicated friendship. They are almost like sisters in many ways, as they practically grew up together. Isabel can be very manipulative and Mary tends to like being out of the spotlight. There were times in this story that I was very irritated with Isabel's behavior, but as the story went on and the backstory was revealed a bit at a time, you can see why she acted the way she did. Isabel's break with reality also helped Mary to see the depth of her friend's struggles, as well as her own. I appreciated their journey and also enjoyed the romantic elements of the story.

I know there is so much more depth to this story than I'm even picking up on, but even so, I thought this novel was well-written and explores the many layers of the human heart and mind.

**I received a copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in order to share my honest review, which I did**

Reviewer's bookshelf: Christmas at Carnton by Tamera Alexander

Book Summary (from Goodreads): A novella to launch a brand new three-book series . . .

In the midst of war and the fading dream of the Confederacy, a wounded soldier and a destitute widow discover the true meaning of Christmas, the cost of love . . . and of loving again.

Recently widowed, Aletta Prescott struggles to hold life together for herself and her six-year old son. About to be evicted, she sees an advertisement for the Ladies Aid Society Auction and applies for a position—only to discover it's been filled. Then a chance meeting with a wounded soldier offers another opportunity. And friendship. But can she trust him? Is Jake Winston the man he appears to be? Having lost everything once, Aletta is determined to guard not only her own heart, but also her son's.

Captain Jake Winston, a revered Confederate sharpshooter, suffers a head wound at the Battle of Chickamauga. When doctors deliver their diagnosis, Jake fears losing not only his greatest skill but his very identity. As he heals, Jake is ordered to assist with a local Ladies Aid Society auction. He respectfully objects. Kowtowing to a bunch of "crinolines" isn't his idea of soldiering. But orders are orders, and he soon discovers this group of ladies—one, in particular—is far more than he bargained for.

Set against the backdrop of the real history of Carnton Plantation in Franklin, Tennessee, Christmas at Carnton is a story of hope renewed and faith restored . . . at Christmas.

My thoughts... I have read all of Tamera Alexander's books, with the exception of a novella she previously wrote in a collection. Why? I'm not really that big into novellas. I always feel like everything is so rushed...the romantic connection between the characters, the plot...everything. And I realize it has to be...it's a novella. So why did I read this one? I didn't realize it was a novella when I signed up to read it! 

: ) It was a mistake I do not regret!

I may not be convinced to pick up all novellas, but I will pick up this author's. Even with a shorter book, the characters were well developed. The pace of their interaction and building relationship was just right. Enough to satisfy by the end, but not so much that it was totally unrealistic. Quite enjoyable!

I am also excited about the beginning of a new series by Tamera Alexander. She is able to intertwine real historical events and places with fictional characters with skill and creativity. In Christmas at Carnton, the horrors of war, but also the way people came together to support one another, was a big part of the novella. Friendship and unity among people of different race, background, and social status was really the central theme, which I loved as well. 

Get ready for the holiday season by picking up Christmas at Carnton!

**I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in order to give an honest review, which I did**

Thoughts as I read through the Bible

     I've had several personal blog posts swirling around in my mind lately, just waiting for me to take some time to jot them down. This week I'm on fall break and trying to commit some serious time to rest, rest, and more rest. It's the first week off that I've had, without being sick, since I taught summer school last June. I've been physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausted...and after a while, it takes a toll! So this week the kids have been in school and I've had time off to read, go to the library, go grocery shopping, have lunch with a friend, and more. One of the things I've been catching up on is my daily Bible reading. I joined a group of ladies several months ago who are coming together to read through the entire Bible in a year and discuss it as we go. When I joined this group, it was for a lot of reasons. One was because it's been several years since I've read the Bible completely through. Another was because my Papa (grandfather) and his wife, my "Nanny", read through the Bible every year for over 30 years. I am using the same type of Bible they did, and it reminds me so much of their love for the Word and all that reading through the Bible taught them. With all that we've had going on lately, I have gotten way behind...but I'm not giving up! 

    Today as I was reading, I was reminded of just who our Biblical ancestors were. I've only read through Genesis and part of Exodus, but so far we've got...

         liars,

prostitutes,

murderers,

deceivers, and slave traders.

We also have...

grace extended by a patient and loving God,

a God who forgives again and again,

a God who spares lives and prospers families...

a God who would sacrifice His own Son so that we could experience a relationship with Him.

Another thing that I love about all the good, bad, ugly, and beautiful in the Bible? That God included it all in there. God didn't cut all the sin and disobedience out of His word...He didn't sugarcoat it. Didn't make the status of the men and women after God's own heart based on their good works...because all of them were sinners. So are we. Thanks to Jesus' sacrifice, we are now after God's own heart. We are His heart.

One of my conclusions: there is so much hope for all of us in the pages of God's Word! I was listening to a song by Lauren Daigle and it really expresses this truth: He, alone, has the power to redeem. All people, all circumstances.

   

Reviewer's Bookshelf: "Blind Spot" by Dani Pettrey

Summary (Goodreads): FBI agent Declan Grey is in the chase of his life--but isn't sure exactly what he's chasing after. Threatened by a terrorist that "the wrath is coming," Grey fears something horrible is about to be unleashed on American soil. When his investigation leads him to a closed immigrant community, he turns to Tanner Shaw to help him. She's sought justice for refugees and the hurting around the world, and if there's anyone who can help him, it's Tanner.

Tanner Shaw has joined the FBI as a crisis counselor . . . meaning she now has more opportunity to butt heads with Declan. But that tension also includes a spark she can't deny, and she's pretty sure Declan feels the same. But before anything can develop between them, they discover evidence of a terror cell--and soon are in a race against the clock to stop the coming "wrath" that could cost thousands their lives.

My thoughts...This series by Dani Pettrey is fantastic! This is the third book in the series, and it only keep getting better. I kind of wish they were able to be released closer together because it's hard to wait so long to see what happens next! : ) But I'm thankful for all of thought that Dani puts into these novels because they are full of detail and indepth plot lines.

I'm finally starting to be able to keep up with all of the characters in this series : ). I'll admit, there are a lot of them, as there is a family feel to the group of characters and they're in each novel. This story focuses in on Declan Grey and Tanner Shaw and their role in trying to solve a muli-tiered, multi-murder mystery. Some of the circumstances are carried over from the previous books in the series. You still get to see other familiar characters as well, as they all work together to solve crimes.

The plot is action-packed from the beginning. There is never a dull moment as Declan and Tanner are being chased, shot at, and followed as they try to solve not only the circumstances surrounding the death of some friends, but a bigger terrorist plot that is brewing among them. Throughout all of this, the romantic tension between them is also building. I also enjoyed learning about their past and who they really are, especially Tanner. I loved her backstory : ).

You really can't go wrong with a Dani Pettrey book! I would definitely recommend Blind Spot!

*I am grateful for a copy of this book so that I could share my thoughts and opinions*

Reviewer's Bookshelf: "A Dangerous Legacy" by Elizabeth Camden

Summary (Goodreads): Lucy is determined to keep working as a telegraph operator at a news agency, even though the arrival of Sir Colin Beckwith threatens her position. When she discovers Colin's shocking secret, she agrees to assist him if he helps her find her family's stolen inheritance--not realizing that the trail leads into a web of treachery, danger, and conspiracy.

My thoughts...I've read all of Elizabeth Camden's books and I've loved some, and others I didn't connect with as well. A Dangerous Legacy fell into the "love" category! A typical Camden book often has an event in history as the backdrop, and many times the setting becomes central to the book with the characters falling in behind it. In this novel, the setting added to the characters instead of taking over. I really liked that. I also liked that the characters in this story were involved with the telegraph machine at rival newspaper offices, which was interesting and helped to create some of the tension. There was also another side plot, which contributed to the intrigue and suspense in the story.

Romantic tension also plays a part in Lucy and Colin's story, and I really loved the way that the characters didn't fight their attraction to one another. However, circumstances didn't allow them to pursue one another the way they would've liked. The honesty that they had with one another, even if it showed their personal weaknesses, was refreshing. 

The way the plot was woven together, with a lot of layers that were revealed a piece at a time, kept me turning pages and built up the suspense. I loved the way that a dangerous situation that Lucy was involved in helped her to have a moment of self-discovery and affected the outcome of the story. Her journey also affected the way Colin saw the direction his life was going.

I would definitely recommend this to fans of historical Christian fiction. An excellent story!

**I am grateful for a copy of this novel so that I could share an honest review, which I did.**