Review of The Seamstress by Allison Pittman

About the Book ~

France, 1788
It is the best of times...

On a tranquil farm nestled in the French countryside, two orphaned cousins -- Renee and Laurette -- have been raised under the caring guardianship of young Emile Gagnon, the last of a once-prosperous family. No longer starving girls, Laurette and Renee now spend days tending Gagnon's sheep, and nights in their cozy loft, whispering secrets and dreams in this time of waning innocence and peace.

It is the worst of times...

Paris groans with a restlessness that can no longer be contained within its city streets. Hunger and hatred fuel her people. Violence seeps into the ornate halls of Versailles. Even Gagnon's table in the quiet village of Mouton Blanc bears witness to the rumbles of rebellion, where Marcel Moreau embodies its voice and heart.

It is the story that has never been told.

In one night, the best and worst of fate collide. A chance encounter with a fashionable woman will bring Renee's sewing skills to light and secure a place in the court of Queen Marie Antoinette. An act of reckless passion will throw Laurette into the arms of the increasingly militant Marcel. And Gagnon, steadfast in his faith in God and country, can only watch as those he loves march straight into the heart of the revolution.

My Thoughts ~

The Seamstress by Allison Pittman is a tale of tragedy, love, and faith in the bleakness of the French Revolution.

In The Seamstress, the author not only captures broken, realistically-flawed characters but also the angst of the French Revolution. The amount of research the author must have done shown in the details of the story! Also, I greatly appreciated how the author told the story in a way that showed the revolution from each side, and through Renee, you see that the royal family may not have been the monsters the public believed them to be. This perspective will be especially powerful as it will probe readers to confront how false beliefs like this could be and are thriving in our everyday world!

Laurette's storyline held the most beautiful aspects of the spiritual storyline, showing the unmerited grace, forgiveness, and mercy of God in such a tender way, but Renee's stand of faith will resonate with readers long after the book is closed. However, I should note that if you're sensitive to gory details, then some aspects and tragedies of the story may be difficult for you. However, the author's lyrical writing style was a welcome distraction to the harsh realities of the French Revolution.

Three Stars ~ The Seamstress by Allison Pittman is sure to be an instant classic for fans of beautiful, thought-provoking tragedies. The Seamstress is a standalone inspired by a character (ahem, the seamstress) from Charles Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities and written in such a way that it captures the heart of Victor Hugo's Les Miserables.

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.

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 Weddings, Willows, and Revised Expectations, and she is 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, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Review of Vanishing Point by Lisa Harris

About the Book ~

Six girls missing . . . and every clue leads to a dead end

During Garrett Addison's first week on the job as a criminal investigator for the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, his team is called out to a murder scene of a young girl. She's just one in a string of disappearances with one thing in common--a Polaroid photo of each victim left behind at the crime scene.

The FBI is pulled into the case to help, and Garrett finds himself working with Special Agent Jordan Lambert, the woman he once loved. When yet another girl dies, Garrett wonders whether he really has what it takes to be an agent. Maybe he should just walk. But while he may be done with the killer, the killer is not done with him--or Jordan.

For more information about Lisa Harris or her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

Looking for a chilling suspense, faith, and a dash of romance? Look. No. Further. than Lisa Harris' latest novel because, wow, guys. Wow.

I was greatly distraught minorly annoyed when The Nikki Boyd Files ended without a satisfying conclusion to the Angel Abductor story arc. Then I was seriously pumped when I found out about Vanishing Point! I am pleased to report that at long last we have the answers to this mystery! But there will be no more on that from me. ;-)

Vanishing Point covers almost fifteen years, and you see Garrett and Jordan experience life changes, struggles, and triumphs. Though it makes my heart ache that it took so long for Garrett and Jordan to find their Happily Ever After, sometimes that's the journey - but it's always a rewarding journey. Lisa Harris also tackles difficult questions over the coarse of this novel, including the age-old question, "Where is God when bad things happen?" She lovingly reminds readers that even though we live in a fallen, broken world without all the answers, Jesus has saved us.

Four Stars ~ Vanishing Point is a must read for anyone who's read The Nikki Boyd Files! Due to the conclusion of the mystery started in those books, I strongly insist with all the self-appointed authority of a bookworm that you read The Nikki Boyd Files, Vendetta, Missing, and Pursued respectively, before reading Vanishing Point. However, if you stumbled on Vanishing Point first, you will find a well crafted, conclusive story within those pages.

I received a copy of Vanishing Point by Lisa Harris 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.

Review of The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck by Bethany Turner!

About the Book ~

Becoming a Christian is the best and worst thing that has ever happened to Sarah Hollenbeck. Best because, well, that's obvious. Worst because, up to this point, she's made her very comfortable living as a well-known, bestselling author of steamy romance novels that would leave the members of her new church blushing. Now Sarah is trying to reconcile her past with the future she's chosen. She's still under contract with her publisher and on the hook with her enormous fan base for the kind of book she's not sure she can write anymore. She's beginning to think that the church might frown on her tithing on royalties from a "scandalous" book. And the fact that she's falling in love with her pastor doesn't make things any easier.

With a powerful voice, penetrating insight, and plenty of wit, Bethany Turner explodes onto the scene with a debut that isn't afraid to deal with the thorny realities of living the Christian life.

For more information about Bethany Turner and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

I want you all to meet my new friend, Sarah Hollenbeck.

Cause she's awesome.

Seriously, guys. Please read The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck, so we can gush about it together! There are some books you know you're going to love as soon as you see the cover. That knowledge is only strengthened when you read the description and, finally, the first paragraph. This is one of those books.

The first few chapters show us the events leading to Sarah's scandalous enterprise and her journey to God, but the majority of the book takes place after Sarah has given her life to God. Sarah's (i.e. Bethany's) narrative had me laughing to myself, yet there were surprising twists and revelations that kept me on my toes while devouring this romantic comedy.

The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck is deliciously fun with a dreamy hero to boot! However, don't let the lightheartedness fool you. This story packs a spiritual punch! Bethany Turner is not afraid to be real, and she gently takes a spiritual salt stick to the open wounds found in the church and body of Christ today. Insightful and overflowing with grace, this novel will touch your heart.

Five Stars ~ An adorable, witty, romantic read! The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck is Bethany Turner's debut novel. Honestly, EVERYBODY should be a fan of this delightfully fun story that gently probes the heart! #allthefeels

I received a copy of The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck by Bethany Turner 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 Justice Buried by Patricia Bradley

About the Book ~

In an effort to get her security consulting business off the ground, Kelsey Allen has been spending a lot of time up in the air, rappelling down buildings and climbing through windows to show business owners their vulnerabilities to thieves. When she is hired to pose as a conservator at the Pink Palace Museum in order to test their security weaknesses after some artifacts go missing, she's ecstatic. But when her investigative focus turns from theft to murder, Kelsey knows she's out of her league--and possibly in the cross hairs. When blast-from-the-past Detective Brad Hollister is called in to investigate, Kelsey may find that he's the biggest security threat yet . . . to her heart.

Crackling with romantic tension and laced with intrigue, this suspenseful story from award-winning author Patricia Bradley will keep readers guessing--and looking over their shoulders.

For more information about Patricia Bradley and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

This was my first Patricia Bradley book, but I quite enjoyed it!

In a lot of ways, this book felt like an episode of Bones - only less gross! I really enjoyed the glimpse into the workings of a museum and a conservator's work. The white hat hacker angle was a lot of fun, even if it was slightly terrifying. ; ) *runs security check on computer* And the twists and turns and action, oh my! The action grabbed me from the first chapter, and I stayed up WAY too late to finish this fast-paced novel. Worth it. ; )

Also, the romance was well paced! The romantic thread is light, building on a pre-existing friend/enemy relationship between Kelsey and Brad. The spiritual angle was also light, making this a good story for someone new to God and Christian Fiction. I enjoyed seeing Kelsey and Brad overcome their hurts regarding their experiences with the truth, or rather, the lack of it. Kelsey, especially, was an accurate picture of someone who's learning that relying on yourself is not the same as fully relying on God.

Four Stars ~ A twisting, fast-paced romantic suspense! Justice Buried is the second book in Patricia Bradley's Memphis Cold Case Novels. Fans of Dani Pettrey, Dee Henderson, or Lisa Harris will enjoy this series.

I received a copy of Justice Buried by Patricia Bradley 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 Space Between Words by Michele Phoenix

About the Book ~

"There were seconds, when I woke, when the world felt unshrouded. Then memory returned."

When Jessica regains consciousness in a French hospital on the day after the Paris attacks, all she can think of is fleeing the site of the horror she survived. But Patrick, the steadfast friend who hasn’t left her side, urges her to reconsider her decision. Worn down by his insistence, she reluctantly agrees to follow through with the trip they’d planned before the tragedy.

“The pages found you,” Patrick whispered. “Now you need to figure out what they’re trying to say.”

During a stop at a country flea market, Jessica finds a faded document concealed in an antique. As new friends help her to translate the archaic French, they uncover the story of Adeline Baillard, a young woman who lived centuries before—her faith condemned, her life endangered, her community decimated by the Huguenot persecution.

“I write for our descendants, for those who will not understand the cost of our survival.”

Determined to learn the Baillard family’s fate, Jessica retraces their flight from France to England, spurred on by a need she doesn’t understand.

Could this stranger who lived three hundred years before hold the key to Jessica’s survival?

For more information about Michele Phoenix and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

Read this enticing, eye-opening tale. Seriously. You won't regret it.

It took awhile for me to process The Space Between Words. Even now I'm not sure I will be able to do this book, this review due justice. Bear with me, my friends.

Jessica is a survivor of the Paris attacks. The author masterfully layers the character's remembrance of the attacks and the following trauma throughout the novel. And about a fourth of the way through the story there is a dramatic twist. A twist so dramatic that - to be honest - I'm not sure how I didn't spend the next week raging and mourning! The author pulled such an intense response out of me for these wounded, dear characters.

Most of the story is told through Jessica's perspective. However, we get to read the journal entries of Adeline Baillard and follow the harrowing journey of her family's faith during the Huguenot persecution. What about romance, you say? Yes, there is a faint, slow burning romance, but it is not the focus of the novel. However, it was enough to please this romantic girl's heart! This is a tale of survival and healing after experiencing the worst in mankind, and we see the struggle - and reward - to walking in faith, persevering, and believing in God's goodness.

Four Stars ~ This story is an intense kind of beautiful! The Space Between Words is a standalone novel. I think fans of Rachel Hauck's dual timeline stories, Katie Ganshert's Life After, Becky Wade's True to You, and Heidi Chiavaroli's Freedom's Ring will enjoy The Space Between Words.

I received a copy of The Space Between Words by Michele Phoenix 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 an avid blogger and co-founder of Snack Time Devotions. Joy is a youth mentor because she loves acting crazy and drinking coffee with the teens. 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 Two of Us by Victoria Bylin

About the Book ~

After two broken engagements, nurse practitioner Mia Robinson is done with dating. From now on, she only trusts herself and God, and she's focused on her eighteen-year-old sister, Lucy, and caring for patients. Just as she applies to work for an international aid organization, a phone call from Lucy, who's pregnant and running off to marry her twenty-one-year-old boyfriend, throws a wrench into all of Mia's plans.

Jake Tanner may have recovered from the physical injuries he sustained on the job as a police officer, but his heart has yet to heal from losing his former partner in the tragedy. He's poured himself into starting a camp for the sons of fallen officers and mentoring Sam, the adult son of his deceased partner, who's asked him to be his best man at his wedding.

Mia is expecting a mess when she arrives to sort out the situation with Lucy, but she wasn't expecting Jake. And Jake, who can't help envying Sam and Lucy, doubts he'll ever experience their happiness for himself. But maybe Jake's courage and Mia's caring spirit are just what they need to bring them a lifetime of healing and a forever kind of love. . . .

For more information about Victoria Bylin and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

If you're looking for a sweet, faith filled romance, then check out The Two of Us!

The Two of Us provides the point of view for three characters. Jake is a disable, retired cop desperate to honor the memory of his fallen partner and reach troubled teens. Mia went through two broken engagements before deciding to dedicate her life to serving on the medical mission field. Then you have Lucy, Mia's younger sister, who is new to God, marriage, and is unexpectedly pregnant. On top of that, you follow present-day Frank and Claire, Jake's parents, and their journey through Alzheimer's Disease. Even though there is such a wide cast with such varied backgrounds and difficulties, the story did not feel cluttered. Rather, each subplot ebbed and flowed perfectly with the main story like they were one body of water.

While both Jake and Mia have big, noble, good dreams, sometimes God has different plans for our lives. I also loved how the author was able to show readers through several characters that trying to be perfect and do everything right wouldn't necessarily stop the bad times and how that attitude ultimately shows a lack of trust in God. I could wholeheartedly relate to that message! It touched my must-be-perfect heart.

Four Stars ~ A beautiful, classic romance! The Two of Us is a standalone story, but by the time you finish, the characters will feel like family. <3

I received a copy of The Two of Us by Victoria Bylin 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 an avid blogger and co-founder of Snack Time Devotions. Joy is a youth leader because she loves acting crazy and drinking coffee with the teens. 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 Egypt's Sister by Angela Hunt

About the Book ~

You Don't Know Her Name. The World Remembers Only Her Greatest Friend: Cleopatra.

Raised together in the Alexandrian palace, Chava, the Hebrew daughter of the royal tutor, and Urbi, an Egyptian princess, become as close as sisters--and rivals with their dreams of greatness. When Urbi unexpectedly ascends the throne as Queen Cleopatra, Chava believes their bond is strong enough to survive. But absolute power has a way of changing everything.

The ultimate betrayal rips Chava from everything she's ever known and sends her to the lowest rung of Roman society where she must choose between love and honor, between her own desires and God's will for her life, if she hopes to rise again.

For more information about Angela Hunt and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

Angela Hunt has done it again! Wow! Wow! WOW!

Chava is a young woman who's grown up with a lot of privilege. Her family is not hurting for money, and they are in very good standing in the community. I mean, she's best friends with an Egyptian princess for crying out loud! Until standing up for what she believes results in her enslavement...

If you've been hanging around my accounts for awhile, you know that Biblical Fiction has become one of my favorite genres. Why? Because it makes you think about things in or surrounding Bible times to which we have become desensitized in our daily lives. While Egypt's Sister is set during The Silent Years (the time period between The Old Testament and The New Testament), it is still a very powerful story! And the rich history! I have never felt so woefully uninformed in all my life - with the exception of my freshman Algebra class. However, the history was not dry and boring, but naturally woven into the fast-moving plot.

I found it very moving to read about how God used Chava's sudden fall in society to not only humble her heart, but also to teach her about who she really was in Him. This is a girl power book at it's finest! Egypt's Sister also showcases the power behind God's words and how He can work even the worst situation for good.

Five Stars - An extraordinary look into life during The Silent Years. Egypt's Sister is a must read for fans of Biblical Fiction!

I received a copy of Egypt's Sister by Angela Hunt 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 an avid blogger and co-founder of Snack Time Devotions. She is a youth leader at her church, and loves acting crazy and drinking coffee with the teens. 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.

The Memory of You Blog Tour, Review, and Giveaway!!!

 

About the Book

Title: The Memory of You

Author: Catherine West

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Release Date: March 28, 2017

Genre: Inspirational Contemporary Fiction

 
Thirteen years ago, Natalie lost a part of herself when her twin sister died. Will traveling back to the family winery finally put the memory to rest, or will it completely destroy her?

When Natalie Mitchell learns her beloved grandfather has had a heart attack, she’s forced to return to their family-owned winery in Sonoma, something she never intended to do. She’s avoided her grandparents’ sprawling home and all its memories since the summer her sister died—the awful summer Natalie’s nightmares began. But the winery is failing, and Natalie’s father wants her to shut it down. As the majority shareholder, she has the power to do so.

And Natalie never says no to her father.

Tanner Collins, the vintner on Maoilios, is trying to salvage a bad season and put the Mitchell family’s winery back in business. When Natalie Mitchell shows up, Tanner sees his future about to be crushed. Natalie intends to close the gates, unless he can convince her otherwise. But the Natalie he remembers from childhood is long gone, and he’s not so sure he likes the woman she’s become. Still, the haunted look she wears hints at secrets he wants to unearth. He soon discovers that on the night her sister died, the real Natalie died too. And Tanner must do whatever it takes to resurrect her.
 
But finding freedom from the past means facing it.

My Thoughts

This was my first Catherine West book, and I am happy to report that it lived up to all my expectations and hopes!!!

So what makes this formerly-estranged-but-returning-home story different? Well, let me break down this sweet story for you.

First of all, the setting! The setting is so rich and vivid; I felt like I was walking through the fields, fingering the plump grapes, tasting the wine. The cover is the perfect visual representation of the stunning, imaginary scenery.

Second, the characters! The characters are wonderfully complex and perfectly flawed. Catherine West brings each character to life with intricate backstories, heartache, and triumphs. Each character has made good and bad choices, choices they've had to live with, choices they are working - with God - to rectify and overcome. It is always refreshing to see such well-rounded characters!

Third, the message! Thanks to the diverse characters, we see a wide array of battles, however, the message remains the same. No matter who you are, no matter what you've done, no matter the guilt you carry, God can carry it. Let go of the past. Give it to Him. Then you are free to walk towards a beautiful future with Him. <3

Four Stars - A heartwarming story! Much like the feeling of drinking hot chocolate on a frigid day, this story is sure to warm the hearts of all who read it. Also, this is a good story for those who are new to Christian Fiction, for someone who needs the Christian message to be more subtle, or as a crossover into the General Market.

I received a copy of The Memory of You by Catherine West from the publisher, Thomas Nelson. All opinions expressed are my own.

To Purchase a Copy:

Amazon ⎸ChristianBook ⎸IndieBound ⎸ Goodreads ⎸ Book Depository ⎸ ITunes

 About the Author

 

Catherine West is an award-winning author who writes stories of hope and healing from her island home in Bermuda. Her first novel, Yesterday's Tomorrow, released in 2011 and won the INSPY for Romance, a Silver Medal in the Reader's Favorite Awards, and was a finalist in the Grace Awards. Catherine's second novel, Hidden in the Heart, released in September 2012, was long listed in the 2012 INSPY's and was a finalist in the 2013 Grace Awards.

When she's not at the computer working on her next story, you can find her taking her Border Collie for long walks or tending to her roses and orchids. She and her husband have two grown children. Catherine is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America, and is represented by Rachelle Gardner of Books & Such Literary. Catherine loves to connect with her readers and can be reached at Catherine[at]catherinejwest.com.

CONNECT WITH CATHERINE: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram

 Tour Schedule

Many thanks to the publisher, Thomas Nelson & Zondervan Fiction 

for providing review copies to our bloggers.

7/17 - Running Through the Storm

7/18 - Moments Dipped in Ink

7/19 - Favorite Christian Books

7/20 - Joy's Blog

7/21 - Happy When Reading

7/22 - Splashes of Joy

7/23 - Reading is My SuperPower

7/24 - Bibliophile Reviews

7/25 - By The Book

7/26 - Reader's Cozy Corner

7/27 - All of a Kind Mom

7/28 -  Smiling Book Reviews

7/29 - Savings in Seconds

7/30 - Heidi Reads. . .

 Giveaway

Rules, Info, and Such ~

(1) Winner will win a gourmet gift basket + a signed copy of The Memory of You, 

courtesy of the author, Catherine West.

(US mailing addresses only for the gift basket & print book prize. 

International winners will win a digital copy of the book.)

Enter here ~

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thank you for hanging out with me today! I hope you enjoyed all the awesomeness. Be sure to check out the rest of the blog tour!

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

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer is an avid blogger and co-founder of Snack Time Devotions. She is a youth leader at her church, and loves acting crazy and drinking coffee with the teens. 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 High as the Heavens by Kate Breslin

About the Book ~

In 1917, Evelyn Marche is just one of many women who has been widowed by the war. A British nurse trapped in German-occupied Brussels, she spends her days working at a hospital and her nights as a waitress in her aunt and uncle's café. Eve also has a carefully guarded secret keeping her in constant danger: She's a spy working for a Belgian resistance group in league with the British Secret Service.

When a British plane crashes in Brussels Park, Eve is the first to reach the downed plane and is shocked to discover she recognizes the badly injured pilot. British RFC Captain Simon Forrester is now a prisoner of war, and Eve knows he could be shot as a spy at any time. She risks her own life to hide him from the Germans, but as the danger mounts and the secrets between them grow, their chance of survival looks grim. And even if they do make it out alive, the truth of what lies between them may be more than any love can overcome.

For more information about Kate Breslin and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

Guys. Just. Seriously. Read this book!

First of all, this cover! It's gorgeously vintage! I love how the cover model fades into the sky and the planes. Absolutely stunning!

Thankfully, the story is as equally as stunning. I think this is my favorite Kate Breslin story - at least for now. ;-)  High as the Heavens is a World War 1 romance. This story contains everything I could want. A hero and heroine separated by war, mystery, subterfuge, treason, hope, redemption, and a swoony romance!

Eve was such an amazing heroine! She was brave. The author note tells readers that Eve was based on three different women from World War 1. How cool is that?? Eve proved to be realistic, too. Her pain, heartache, and guilt over her mistakes in the war showcased God's amazing, redemptive love, forgiveness, and mercy. Simon reminded me of a Scottish version of Westley from The Princess Bride. He was tender, steadfast in his love, and had this dreamy "Death cannot stop true love," vibe. Yeah, I know!

Five Stars - Beautiful! Honestly, anyone who enjoys a war romance needs to pick up this book! You will be swept away! The story grabs you, refusing to release you until the last page.

I received a copy of High as the Heavens by Kate Breslin 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 an avid blogger and co-founder of Snack Time Devotions. She is a youth leader at her church, and loves acting crazy and drinking coffee with the teens. 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 Just Look Up by Courtney Walsh

 

About the Book ~

After tirelessly climbing the ranks of her Chicago-based interior design firm, Lane Kelley is about to land her dream promotion when devastating news about her brother draws her back home―a quaint tourist town full of memories she’d just as soon forget. With her cell phone and laptop always within reach, Lane aims to check on her brother while staying focused on work―something her eclectic family doesn’t understand.

Ryan Brooks never expected to settle down in Harbor Pointe, Michigan, but after his final tour of duty, it was the only place that felt like home. Now knee-deep in a renovation project that could boost tourism for the struggling town, he is thrilled to see Lane, the girl he secretly once loved, even if the circumstances of her homecoming aren’t ideal.

Their reunion gets off to a rocky start, however, when Ryan can’t find a trace of the girl he once knew in the woman she is today. As he slowly chips away at the walls Lane has built, secrets from his past collide with a terrible truth even he is reluctant to believe. Facing a crossroads that could define his future with Lane and jeopardize his relationship with the surrogate family he’s found in the Kelleys, Ryan hopes Lane can see that maybe what really matters has been right in front of her all along―if only she’d just look up.

For more information about Courtney Walsh and her books, connect with her on Facebook!

My Thoughts ~

What a lovely, lovely story! *insert a ridiculous amount of exclamation points here*

Just Look Up flowed so smoothly and the people, er, characters utterly captured my heart with their hopes and heartaches. In the idyllic town of Harbor Point, Courtney Walsh weaves together many simple, yet poignant truths, pointing readers back to God in such a loving manner.

My heart seriously went out to Lane. Seriously. She's built a hundred foot wall around her heart because of severe bullying as a child, a horrid betrayal, and a loving yet flawed family. I really loved how the Kelly family loved each other, but they were so NOT perfect. They felt like a real-life family. And Ryan, he was so patient and loving! What a wonderful portrayal of how the husband (or in this case, the guy who will one day be the husband) is supposed to reflect God!

Four Stars ~  A lovely, heartfelt story! This is a standalone story, but by the time you finish, you really feel like you know these people, er, characters. ;-)

I received a copy of Just Look Up by Courtney Walsh 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 an avid blogger and co-founder of Snack Time Devotions. She is a youth leader at her church, and loves acting crazy and drinking coffee with the teens. 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 Last Summer by Brandy Bruce

About the Book ~

For twenty-something Sara Witherspoon and her group of friends, a perfect Southern summer includes lake-house getaways, wedding planning, outdoor concerts, and a dash of romance. But for these seven friends who love each other like family, this year, summer rolls in with changes for everyone.

Sara's longtime crush, Luke, has been her best friend for as long as she has been a part of the group. When Luke begins seriously dating another of their friends, Sara's forced to deal with her hurt and jealousy, while outwardly try to support them both.

While Sara comes to terms with her own heart and her friends' relationships, an unexpected handsome pilot from North Carolina and an old flame are thrown into the mix. Knowing her heart suddenly becomes much more complicated.

But as time unfolds and friendships begin to unravel, Sara and the others are presented with the reality of what a season of change does to old friendships and new love interests.

Does growing older mean growing apart?

For more information about Brandy Bruce and her books, check out her website/blog here!

My Thoughts ~

SO MUCH LOVE for The Last Summer!!! Oh, guys, I seriously LOVED this sweet story! *crushes book to chest in an alarmingly enthusiastic hug*

Twenty-something's ~ This is a book you NEED to read! It is so relatable. I understood all the heartache and strain and forgiveness and grace because that was my journey to the alter.

Everybody else ~ You all need to read this book because once again, it is so relatable! Who among us hasn't experienced these emotions and trials? Even now, we have good chapters and bad chapters in our story.

Married's ~ You will enjoy this story, too. It's a beautiful reminder that even after Happily Ever After, our spouses are not perfect. Forgiveness is so important in any relationship.

I love how flawed Sara and the gang are. Real life, real love, real people are messy, and not just in the my-husband-won't-pick-up-his-socks way. I'm pretty convinced Sara, Sam, Lilly, Luke, Addison, Jason, and Debra are real people who've made real mistakes and have experienced God's real, unending grace. Don't look at me like that. They're real.

Anyways. While reading The Last Summer and remembering the details of my journey from single to married to mother over the last seven years, I was just so overcome by the ocean of grace God has given us. This is a story of love and grace, and I was so blessed by the heartfelt truths Brandy Bruce seamlessly wove into the story.

As someone once said, praise the Lord!  ;-)

Five Stars ~ A beautiful story that I demand recommend everyone reads immediately!

I purchased a copy of The Last Summer by Brandy Bruce. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer is an avid blogger and co-founder of Snack Time Devotions. She is a youth leader at her church, and loves acting crazy and drinking coffee with the teens. 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 Under a Summer Sky by Melody Carlson

About the Book ~

High school art teacher Nicole Anderson is looking forward to a relaxing summer in Savannah, house-sitting and managing an art gallery for a family friend. The house is luxurious in a way that only old money could make it, and the gallery promises interesting days in a gorgeous setting. Yet it isn't long before her ideal summer turns into more than she bargained for: a snooty gallery employee who's determined to force her out, a displaced adolescent roosting in the attic, and two of Nicole's close childhood friends--who also happen to be brothers--vying for her attention.

With a backdrop of a beautiful historical city, incredible architecture, and even an alleged ghost or two, combined with the opportunity for romance . . . anything can happen!

For more information about Melody Carlson and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

How many of you have ever picked a book to coincide with a particular time of the year or a season of your life? No? Just me? ;-)

Well, for the bookish nerds who do that from time to time - because sometimes we just do - then Melody Carlson's latest novel is for you!

Nicole is a high school art teacher who is stuck in life like paint under fingernails. When her mom arranges for her to house sit and manage an art gallery for a family friend, Nicole reluctantly agrees. However, it turns out to be just what she needed! As Nicole immerses herself into Savannah life, old friends resurface and long wondered "what ifs" are finally answered. And, boy, am I a fan of answered questions!

Under a Summer Sky is a light, sweet romance sure to give you all the fireflies! This is a clean romance that is perfect for the person(s) in you're life who are new to Christian Fiction. It's clean, sweet subtleness makes it a wonderful crossover book. Also, Melody Carlson does an excellent job of catching the flavor and history of Savannah; I felt like I was there!

Four Stars - A light, summer read! Under a Summer Sky is the third book in Melody Carlson's Follow Your Heart Series, but you do not need to read the first two books, Once Upon a Summertime and All Summer Long, since the stories do not build on each other.

I received a copy of Under a Summer Sky by Melody Carlson 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