Review of The Sowing Season by Katie Powner

 

About the Book ~

Can an unlikely friendship give them the courage to start again?

Forced to sell the dairy farm he's worked his entire life to make successful, Gerrit Laninga, now sixty-three, doesn't know what to do with himself. He sacrificed everything for his cows--his time, his health, his family--with nothing to show for it but bitterness, regret, and two grown children who want nothing to do with him.

Fifteen-year-old Rae Walters is stricken with panic every time she climbs behind the wheel. But any failure, including not passing her driver's test, jeopardizes The Plan--the detailed blueprint for high school and beyond that has her following in her lawyer father's footsteps. Though she's always been committed to The Plan, now that the pressure to succeed is building, doubts about whether she has what it takes begin to haunt her. What was supposed to unite her family in purpose could end up tearing it apart.

As their paths cross and a friendship begins to form, Gerrit's and Rae's lives change in unexpected ways. Will they discover what really matters in life and together learn it's never too late for a second chance?

For more information about Katie Powner and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

The Sowing Season by Katie Powner is a fresh and unique generational saga that will move the hearts of the young and slightly less young!

While The Sowing Season is outside of my normal genre preferences, this beautiful story is exactly the reason I take chances as a reader! The result: now I have a new author and a story I will recommend to EVERYONE! Genuine humor -- which often seems less prevalent in this genre -- bounced off the pages, especially in the scenes involving Bernard the Terrible! Additionally, the touch of romance with the teenage heroine was a delight to my romance-loving heart.

I loved the author's twist on the traditional family drama! The unlikely friendship between Gerrit and Rae flows with life. This life flows into the character's respective lives, bringing healing, restoration, and freedom! Gerrit's quest to win back his wife and finally be a father to his grown children had me crying in agony and cheering his victory from start to finish. Furthermore, his story so aptly illustrated how we may physically lose something, but we're only free when we choose to let go of it. Furthermore, my perfectionist personality could more than relate to Rae's struggles to maintain perfection. The message of freedom found in breaking the yoke of perfection and seeking God's heart for you and your life is a message I always welcome!

Five Stars ~ The Sowing Season by Katie Powner is a stunning story! The Sowing Season is a standalone and the author's debut. I'm looking forward to reading whatever the author writes next!

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girl. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Review of Becoming the Talbot Sisters by Rachel Linden

About the Book ~

Twin sisters Waverly and Charlie Talbot have drifted far apart as they pursue opposite dreams of stardom and service to the poor. On an astonishing journey across Central Europe, they must come together to face their fears, find their courage and fight for what they love.

Celebrity chef Waverly Ross has built a successful career with her home-entertaining show Simply Perfect. Yet she and her husband, Andrew, have never been able to realize the true desire of Waverly’s heart: to become a mother. Meanwhile Waverly’s twin sister, Charlie Talbot, buries her bitter disappointment and shattered idealism beneath a life spent serving others as an international aid worked in Budapest, Hungary.

When the beloved aunt who raised them passes away, Waverly and Charlie come together in their grief after living years on separate continents. Struck by a fierce desire to bridge the distance between them, Charlie offers Waverly and her husband the selfless gift of surrogacy.

But soon the sisters find they are each in danger of losing their jobs, seemingly putting their dreams on hold once again. When Waverly shows up unannounced in Budapest with a plan to rescue Simply Perfect, the sisters embark on an adventure across Central Europe that could save them both from occupational hazards. Though the twins haven’t had to rely on each other since childhood, an unforeseen dangerous turn in their journey across Europe forces them to stand together to save their careers, the baby, and each other.

For more information about Rachel Linden and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

Surprising.

That's what I would say if I had to sum up Becoming the Talbot Sisters by Rachel Linden in one word. This story truly surprised me!

As first glance, this seems like a novel of sisterly bonding - and it is - but so much more lies beneath the surface. The author weaves difficult subjects like miscarriages, marriage struggles, surrogacy, rape, sex trafficking, and adoption into the story in such a real and relatable way. The romance is very light, but 'twas enough to satisfy my mushy meter. *insert gooey feelings here* And thanks to some jaw-dropping twists and shocking turns, a suspenseful undertone wafts from the pages, beckoning the reader to hurry up and finish this savory tale.

Yes, there's also a dash of foodie added as flavor to the story. ;-)

In the midst of this delectable journey, courage drives Waverly and Charlie through their traumas and trials, and it will inspire readers to be courageous not only for the people who need them but also for themselves in all circumstances. We often have a plan for life, but a cause for which to be courageous doesn't wait for us to fit it into our lives; it just happens. This is something I think was illustrated very well in Becoming the Talbot Sisters, and the subtle Christian values give this story a broad appeal for reaching and calling many readers to action.

Three Stars ~ Becoming the Talbot Sisters is a little different than what I normally read, but I'm very glad that I read this heartfelt tale! If you're a fan of Lizzy and Jane by Katherine Reay or if you cherish a good story of sisterly bonding, then I think you will really enjoy Becoming the Talbot Sisters by Rachel Linden!

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer is the author of Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. She is also an avid blogger and co-founder of Snack Time Devotions. In her spare time, Joy is an unprofessional chocolate connoisseur/binger, and she loves acting crazy and drinking coffee with the teens she mentors. When Joy isn’t urging the elves that live in her computer to write, she’s hanging out with her husband, their adorable baby girl, and their socially awkward pets.

 

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

Review of Lady Jayne Disappears by Joanna Davidson Politano

About the Book ~

Lynhurst Manor is a house built on secrets . . . and the arrival of Aurelie Harcourt might reveal them all.When Aurelie Harcourt's father dies suddenly, he leaves her just two things: his famous pen name, Nathaniel Droll, and his wealthy family--who want very little to do with her.

As Aurelie struggles to find a home with her father's family and learn the rules of society, she relishes in his parting gift--the beginning of his last story. The story she always wanted to hear, about her mother's mysterious disappearance from the home where she now lives. To complete the novel, she'll have to extract clues from relatives--and one enigmatic houseguest--who often seem reluctant to give them up.

For more information about Joanna Davidson Politano, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

Lady Jayne Disappears is absolutely enchanting, utterly romantic, and deliciously original!

Aurelie proves to be a sweet, loving, genuine character with a touch of endearing naïveté as she navigates this new world filled with rules and secrets. I loved the deep, first person narrative. As she embraces her writing and the world of aristocracy, she struggles to find her voice amongst the negative. We get to see some of Silas' (our hero <3) perspective, too. Each glimpse only makes him more dashing and dear.

I think every author and writer would love this story. It's always so fun and encouraging to see a character who so accurately portrays the insanity that is a writer's life. Haha! And it's a story, within a story, within a story. Who doesn't love that?!

Lady Jayne Disappears twisted and turned every which way, keeping me on my toes. Reveals were fast and shocking, yet I didn't feel confused once we reached the conclusion. The author wasn't afraid to give you imperfect characters and messy situations in addition to characters like Aurelie who, while imperfect, are striving to serve God. Every thread was not tied up with a darling lace bow, however, this only adds to the tantalizing mystery.

And the ending! Oh, the ending! I promise you on my honor as a bookworm, I'm not giving away spoilers. Breathe easy, friends. But I need to tell you the ending is so wonderfully romantic, that it will rival some of the greatest fairytales. AND this delicious story ends with a call for action. To disregard all the scorn and doubts from yourself and others. To go and pursue God's unique call on your life. LOVE IT!

Five Stars ~ I will need to reread Lady Jayne Disappears ASAP in order to fully soak up all the lovely descriptions, wordplays, and witticisms! Once is not enough!

I received a copy of Lady Jayne Disappears by Joanna Davidson Politano from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer is the author of Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. She is also an avid blogger and co-founder of Snack Time Devotions. In her spare time, Joy is an unprofessional chocolate connoisseur/binger, and she loves acting crazy and drinking coffee with the teens she mentors. When Joy isn’t urging the elves that live in her computer to write, she’s hanging out with her husband, their adorable baby girl, and their socially awkward pets.

Review of The Austen Escape by Katherine Reay

About the Book ~

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

For more information about Katherine Reay and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

The Austen Escape is one of Katherine Reay's best stories!

Mary, a brilliant engineer, has hilarious quirks, including making little figurines out of electrical wire while she's thinking and using scraps of it to hold her ponytail in place. But Mary has lived a lot of life hiding in plain sight. As the precarious predicament she finds herself in comes to a climax, she walks the road of trust and vulnerability to a freeing type of clarity best seen with the heart.

I love everything about this book - from the adorable cover to the delectable writing style to the whimsical story between the pages. The Austen Escape is an adorable mash-up of science nerd and Jane Austen. AND this novel will be a dream come true for many an Austenette! A gorgeous, regency styled house, clothes, games, and life! Um...YES, PLEASE!!! I loved the idea of roleplaying Austen's works and living a regency lifestyle. It all felt so real, making me downright giddy!

While you will find similarities to some of Jane Austen's work, such as Mansfield Park, The Austen Escape is not a strict retelling or modern interpretation of the legendary author's novels. Rather, it's a probing look at some choice characters and Jane herself. These insights help magnify character development and revelations. Also, the spiritual content is light, making this an excellent crossover novel.

Five Stars ~ If you are an Austen lover, then this is a story to add to your keeper shelf. Even if you are not an Austen lover *gasp*, this is still an enjoyable novel! The Austen Escape is a standalone novel, but be sure to check out Katherine Reay's other titles!

I received a copy of The Austen Escape by Katherine Reay published by Thomas Nelson from BookLook Bloggers. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer is the author of Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. She is also an avid blogger and co-founder of Snack Time Devotions. In her spare time, Joy is an unprofessional chocolate connoisseur/binger, and she loves acting crazy and drinking coffee with the teens she mentors. When Joy isn’t urging the elves that live in her computer to write, she’s hanging out with her husband, their adorable baby girl, and their socially awkward pets.

Review of The Delusion by Laura Gallier

About the Book ~

By March of Owen Edmonds’s senior year, eleven students at Masonville High School have committed suicide. Amid the media frenzy and chaos, Owen tries to remain levelheaded―until he endures his own near-death experience and wakes to a distressing new reality.

The people around him suddenly appear to be shackled and enslaved.

Owen frantically seeks a cure for what he thinks are crazed hallucinations, but his delusions become even more sinister. An army of hideous, towering beings, unseen by anyone but Owen, are preying on his girlfriend and classmates, provoking them to self-destruction.

Owen eventually arrives at a mind-bending conclusion: he’s not imagining the evil―everyone else is blind to its reality. He must warn and rescue those he loves . . . but this proves to be no simple mission. Will he be able to convince anyone to believe him before it’s too late?

Owen’s heart-pounding journey through truth and delusion will force him to reconsider everything he believes. He both longs for and fears the answers to questions that are quickly becoming too dangerous to ignore.

For more information about Laura Gallier and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

If you let it, this story will change your life. Read. This. Book. I really can't emphasis this enough to you. To spare you an insanely long review, just imagine that I wrote those three words three hundred times.

The Delusion is a fast-paced, supernatural, paranormal, Christian thriller. And no, that is not an oxymoron.

The story starts with Owen, a high school senior, and eleven of the students in his school have committed suicide. WHY? Turns out there's a battle - a battle of good versus evil, light versus dark, Creepers versus Watchman, a battle for souls.

A battle that's all too real.

Though reading The Delusion may result in the rustle of chains scarring you half to death for the rest of your life, this eye-opening story is worth the sacrifice. While the author has used her imagination to paint a more complete picture of the world we cannot see, she definitely relies on the Bible and what is revealed to us there. Even though this is a fiction story, you know because you know because you know that this is real and happening right now. Imagine spiritual warfare presented in a fiction format. While entertaining and enthralling, this story will change how you view life, death, God, evil, suicide, prayer - the list goes on! I'll say it again: if you let it, this story will change your life.

Five Stars ~ I have a lot of favorite books, but The Delusion is one of the best books I've ever read. No joke. Fans of Toward a Secret Sky by Heather Maclean, The Gifting Series by K. E. Ganshert, or Ted Dekker will love this novel! The Delusion is the first book in The Delusion Series. Book Two can't release fast enough!!!

I received a copy of The Delusion by Laura Gallier published by Tyndale from the Tyndale Blog Network. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer is the author of Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. She is also an avid blogger and co-founder of Snack Time Devotions. In her spare time, Joy is an unprofessional chocolate connoisseur/binger, and she loves acting crazy and drinking coffee with the teens she mentors. When Joy isn’t urging the elves that live in her computer to write, she’s hanging out with her husband, their adorable baby girl, and their socially awkward pets.

Review of Crown of Souls by Ronie Kendig

About the Book ~

When You Stare Into the Abyss It Also Stares Into You

The bullet that rips into Cole "Tox" Russell was never meant to kill. It was meant to send a message. Only one man is skilled enough to have taken the shot, a rogue Special Forces operator who vanished months ago.

Alec King is perhaps the only person as skilled as Tox, and he's out for justice. Furious with orders that got his men killed, he intends to make those responsible pay. And he insists Tox join him, believing they are the same breed of soldier.

Afraid his old friend could be right, Tox battles a growing darkness within himself as he and his team are forced into another deadly encounter with antiquity. It appears Alec is harnessing the power of a mysterious artifact, a crown that history has linked to some of the worst slaughters in humanity. Racing to stop Alec before his vengeance is unleashed, Tox must fight the monster without becoming one.

For more information about Ronie Kendig and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

Wow! Ronie Kendig has done it again, forever claiming a spot as one of my go-to military, thriller, suspense authors!

Imagine if a military suspense, The Lord of the Rings, and National Treasure where all thrown into a literary blender, and then this concoction is sprinkled with a sweet romance. Clearly, I am no chef, but I think you get the point that this book is amazing!

Re-dive into the world of Cole "Tox" Russell, Haven (Kasey), Ram, and Tzivia. A world where history and the supernatural collide with our modern-day issues and unbelief. The story mostly flows from Tox and Haven's perspectives, but Ram (I love Ram!), Tzivia, and a mysterious, important man from the past make appearances that left me wanting more. This journey is rife with action, soul-searching, and...victory?

Sorry. I can't say more. Spoilers. And I relish in your frustration a little. Hehe. ;-)

The story is peppered with the spiritual premise that if you stare into the darkness, then it stares into you. Through Tox's struggles and secrets and Haven's steadfastness, reader's are reminded that no matter what they've done, God's love and forgiveness covers all.

Five Stars ~ A.Maz.Ing. Crown of Souls is the second book in The Tox Files. I would definitely recommend reading book one, Conspiracy of Silence, before diving into Crown of Souls. They make great binge reads! I'm looking forward to the next book, Thirst of Steel, to a mildly alarming, obsessive, great degree! Thirst of Steel releases on July 31st, 2018.

I received a copy of Crown of Souls by Ronie Kendig from Bethany House Publishers, a division of Baker Publishing Group. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer is the author of Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. She is also an avid blogger and co-founder of Snack Time Devotions. In her spare time, Joy is an unprofessional chocolate connoisseur/binger, and she loves acting crazy and drinking coffee with the teens she mentors. When Joy isn’t urging the elves that live in her computer to write, she’s hanging out with her husband, their adorable baby girl, and their socially awkward pets.