Review of NKJV Journal the Word Bible

Product Description:

The NKJV Journal the Word™ Bible allows you to express yourself creatively every day with plenty of room for notes or verse art journaling next to your treasured verses. With a selection of unique and sophisticated covers, this single-column edition features thick, cream-colored paper with lightly ruled lines in the extra-wide margins, perfect to reflect on God’s Word and enhance your study.
Excellent for a gift or for personal use, it can also be a cherished heirloom to pass on to future generations with your personal writings inside!
Features of this treasured Bible include:

• Lined, wide margins for notes and reflections
• Thicker cream paper for enduring note-taking
• Words of Christ in red
• Lies flat in your hand or on your desk
• Ribbon marker

My Thoughts:

This is a great Bible!

First, the cover is so pretty! The flowery reeds and the turquoise blue is so beautiful. However, the cover is cloth over board, so it's not as strong as a hard cover book.

Next, the print really is LARGE. It's awesome. ;) Nice and clear. It's very frustrating when you need a magnifying glass to read your Bible, and I don't feel like that's the case with this Bible. The large print makes this Bible super thick. If you're like me and you like large purses, then it's not an issue. But this is not a pocket size Bible.

Other features include Jesus' words in red, which is nice. There are footnotes at the bottom of the page. Also, the journaling margins are good size. Large enough for notes, doodles, and beautiful art - that is, if you can draw. I can't. ;)

All in all. I think this is a very nice Bible.

I received a copy of the NKJV Journal the Word Bible published by Thomas Nelson from BookLook Blogger. All opinions expressed are my own.

Blessing and hugs! See you guys next time! <3

V. Joy Palmer

What I'm Not Thankful for This Year

Happy Thanksgiving! Hope you will have/are having/had an awesome Thanksgiving!!!

Check out my blog on Snack Time Devotions! I talk about the things I'm thankful for... Things I'm not thankful for... Job... And what really matters. Read it here!

Hugs! <3

V. Joy Palmer

Review of The Shattered Vigil by Patrick W. Carr

From the Back Cover:

A Single Terrible Choice Faces the Vigil. Hide in Safety and Let Darkness Take Over the Land or Face the Growing Danger and Risk All of Their Lives.

Their victory over the dark forces during the feast of Bas-solas should have guaranteed safety for the continent. Instead, Willet and the rest of the Vigil discover they've been outsmarted by those seeking to unleash the evil that inhabits the Darkwater. One of the Vigil has gone missing, and new attacks have struck at the six kingdoms' ability to defend themselves.

Worse, a deadly new threat has emerged--assassins hunting the Vigil, men and women who cannot be seen until it's too late. To thwart the perilous new risk, the church makes the drastic decision to safeguard the Vigil by taking the surviving members into protective custody. But there are secrets only the Vigil can unearth, and so Pellin makes the heart-wrenching choice to oppose the church in a race to turn back the evil that threatens an entire continent.

My Thoughts:

The Shattered Vigil is a deep, epic tale!

In this second installment of The Darkwater Saga, the Vigil is racing the clock, trying to fight against the evil that revealed itself during Bas-solas. If you enjoy a story with layers upon layer upon twists upon right hooks, then you will adore this book! I really like how Patrick Carr is able to weave keen observations about life and deep, spiritual truths into the story. I loved the increased roll of the urchins. And invisible, zombie-like people? Well done, Patrick Carr. Well done.

The writing style is different, and sometimes I felt like it pulled me out of the story. There are a lot of descriptions and personal musings, and it left me wanting more dialogue and action. While the plot is superb, this is the kind of book that I need to break into smaller chunks.

Three Stars. Despite feeling pulled out of the story, I am invested in this epic tale. I want to know how it ends!

The Shattered Vigil is the second book in The Darkwater Saga. Read my review of the first book, The Shock of Night, here. You would definitely want to read the first book, The Shock of Night, before reading The Shattered Vigil. While each book (thus far) deals with a specific problem, the events of the second book are built on an important foundation laid in the first book.

I received a copy of The Shattered Vigil by Patrick W. Carr from Bethany House Publishers, a division of Baker Publishing Group. All opinions expressed are my own.

God bless you guys! Hugs! See you next time. ;)

V. Joy Palmer

Review of The Silent Songbird by Melanie Dickerson

About the Book:

Evangeline is gifted with a heavenly voice, but she is trapped in a sinister betrothal until she embarks on a daring escape and meets brave Westley le Wyse. Can he help her discover the freedom to sing again?

Desperate to flee a political marriage to her cousin King Richard II’s closest advisor, Lord Shiveley—a man twice her age with shadowy motives—Evangeline runs away and joins a small band of servants journeying back to Glynval, their home village.

Pretending to be mute, she gets to know Westley le Wyse, their handsome young leader, who is intrigued by the beautiful servant girl. But when the truth comes out, it may shatter any hope that love could grow between them.

More than Evangeline’s future is at stake as she finds herself entangled in a web of intrigue that threatens England’s monarchy.Should she give herself up to protect the only person who cares about her? If she does, who will save the king from a plot to steal his throne?

My Thoughts:

The queen of fairy-tale retellings strikes again with her Little Mermaid inspired story!

I can't even begin to tell you guys how I anxiously awaited the release of The Silent Songbird. I was through the roof excited when I found out this would be The Little Mermaid retelling because that is one of my favorite Disney movies (second only to The Beauty and the Beast, of course. ;) ).

And I was not disappointed!

I so adored the scene reminiscent of Ariel the mermaid rescuing drowning Prince Eric. Swoon! However, I should tell you, if you're expecting a story set by the sea or at a seaport, it's actually set in a medieval village. But I promise you, this was an incredible setting.

I related to Evangeline very quickly, and I really liked the singing aspect of the story. Westley (Ranulf and Annabel's son!!!) was amazing, and he made me think of The Princess Bride, but maybe that's just because of his name... Although there was a particularly fun "storming the castle" scene. ;)

Love! Love! Love! 4 Stars!

I am so excited for Melanie's next release, The Noble Servant, which releases on May 9th, 2017!!!

I received a copy of The Silent Songbird by Melanie Dickerson published by Thomas Nelson from BookLook Bloggers. All opinions expressed are my own.

God bless you guys, and I'll see you next time! Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

Review of Shadow of the Storm by Connilyn Cossette

From the Back Cover:

In the darkness of the storm's shadow, only truth can light her way.

Having escaped Egypt with the other Hebrews during the Exodus, Shira is now living in freedom at the foot of Mount Sinai. When the people rebel by worshipping a golden idol, the ensuing chaos gives Shira an unexpected opportunity to assist a midwife. When the experience awakens a new desire in her, she defies her mother's wish for her to continue in the family weaving trade and pursues her heart's calling as an apprentice midwife.

But when a delivery goes horribly wrong, Shira finds herself in an impossible situation and bound to a man who betrayed her. As contention between the Hebrew tribes and the foreigners fans the flames of another dangerous rebellion, Shira comes face to face with the long-hidden pain of her past. Can she let go of all that has defined her to embrace who she truly is and believe in a hopeful future?

My Thoughts:

Oh, my friends. This book... This beautiful, haunting book... I so adored it! Shadow of the Storm torn my heart out. I wept. Yet by the end of the story, I felt... Built up. Stronger. Connected. Brave.

Biblical fiction has rapidly become one of my favorite genres. I love seeing these amazing lessons and nuggets of truth that another person has taken into their heart then woven into a beautiful story.

Shira is a wonderful character. She's wounded and foolish at times, but that makes her triumph all the more glorious. She's one of the most relatable characters I've read this year. Her accounts of midwifery were moving, realistic, yet terrifying given my traumatic labor and delivery. (It certainly made me even more thankful for all the knowledge God has given to us and for guiding the doctors hands during my daughter's birth!)

I loved, loved, loved reading about Israel's time at Mount Sinai. I don't know about you, but I've become so accustomed to reading through these accounts in Exodus, that I've become a wee bit desensitized. Being forced to remember and imagine that while reading was so difficult, but it reminded me that these are people just like us. They had their own junk, and that's why they were the way they were. And when they allowed God to heal their wounds, amazing things happened. Reading this story about this group of battered, broken slaves being transformed into the mighty nation of Israel is incredible.

I highly recommend Shadow of the Storm. Five Stars!

Shadow of the Storm is the second book in Connilyn Cossette's Out from Egypt Series. The third book, Wings of the Wind, releases May 2017

I received a copy of Shadow of the Storm by Connilyn Cossette from Bethany House Publishers, a division of Baker Publishing Group. All opinions expressed are my own.

V. Joy Palmer

Review of Wild Montana Skies by Susan May Warren

From the Back Cover:

The last thing Search and Rescue helicopter pilot Kacey Fairing needs upon returning home to Mercy Falls, Montana, is to run into her mistakes. After a devastating crash during her recent military tour in Afghanistan, she is emotionally broken but ready to start putting her life back together. She just wants to reconnect with her teenage daughter and spend the summer working as the new lead pilot of PEAK Rescue in Glacier National Park.

But her mistakes aren't so easily forgotten. Because Ben King is also back in town.

Country music star Ben King abandoned his past when he moved to Nashville thirteen years ago to start his career. He hoped to heal his broken heart, caused by losing the woman he loved. But when his father is injured, Ben is called home to help manage PEAK Rescue during his recovery. He doesn't realize his father has ulterior motives until his old flame, Kacey, walks into his house and back into his heart.

Now, with Mercy Falls in a state of emergency due to flash floods, Kacey and Ben will have to work together to save lives. But when secrets are uncovered and old hurts rise to the surface, will they walk away again? Or can they find a different ending to their country love song?

My Thoughts:

Who doesn't love a story of unrequited love?

Cause I know I do!

The back cover description is pretty much the summary of the first few chapters. After that, the story mainly focuses on Ben and Kacey finding their way back to each other and God. Wild Montana Skies had a similar vibe to the Team Hope Series, but Ben and Kacey and their romance were definitely the focus of the novel. So, the SAR (search and rescue) angle made a nice subplot, although I would love to see more of it in the next book!

There's just something about Susan May Warren's writing style that flows really well, and this story was no exception. I appreciate how Ben and Kacey talked about the elephant in the room (and then the parade of baby elephants to follow), instead of dancing around it for chapters. I love how real, yet Christ-like the characters are. If they screw up, they own up to it. That's real life, my friends. In addition to Ben and Kacey's perspectives, we also get to see two other perspectives, Ian and Sierra. I can't wait to see how that turns out! ;)

Four stars! Wild Montana Skies is the first book in Susan May Warren's Montana Rescue Series. I'm looking forward to the next book, Rescue Me, releasing January 2017!

I received a copy of Wild Montana Skies by Susan May Warren from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. All opinions expressed are my own.

God bless you guys! Hugs! See you next time. :)

V. Joy Palmer

Review of Unblemished by Sara Ella

Back Cover Description:

Eliyana can’t bear to look at her own reflection. But what if that were only one Reflection—one world? What if another world exists where her blemish could become her strength?

Eliyana is used to the shadows. With a birthmark covering half her face, she just hopes to graduate high school unscathed. That is, until Joshua hops a fence and changes her perspective. No one, aside from her mother, has ever treated her like he does: normal. Maybe even beautiful. Because of Joshua, Eliyana finally begins to believe she could be loved.

But one night her mother doesn’t come home, and that’s when everything gets weird. Now Joshua is her new, and rather reluctant, legal Guardian. Add a hooded stalker and a Central Park battle to the mix and you’ve gone from weird to otherworldly.

Eliyana soon finds herself in a world much larger and more complicated than she’s ever known. A world enslaved by a powerful and vile man. And Eliyana holds the answer to defeating him. How can an ordinary girl, a blemished girl, become a savior when she can’t even save herself?

My Thoughts:

I just... I can't... This book... I...

LOVED IT!!!!!

Oh my goodness, guys. I had such a book hangover after finished Unblemished. My husband had to repeat questions because all I could do was stare dumbly, still digesting every delicious morsel of this delectable story.

You're dropped into the middle of sweep-you-off-your-feet action. Eliyana is thrust into a whole new world, a world completely different than what I envisioned. Twists, turns, and amazing world building keep your eyes glued to the page. El's character development is wonderful. Her growth from the beginning to the end of the story is truly transformative. And I adore how the message of Who determines your worth is wonderfully woven into the story.

And, for those of you dying to know, I've thought about my team a lot. I always look for elements of my husband and our love story in the hero. I see him in both. My heart was just as torn as El's...until...The Incident. I normally choose the road of unrequited love. And if Sara Ella wrote an alternate reality with him, I'd be all over that. However, I think the writing is on the wall. Team Ky, peps. (If you thought the love triangle in Twilight was intense, you haven't seen anything yet.)

Fans of Wayne Thomas Batson, Bryan Davis, Rachelle Dekker, Ted Dekker, Mary Weber, and the popular Doon series by Carey Corp and Lorie Langdon will adore Unblemished. But honestly, even if you haven't read those authors (I don't understand why... ;) LOL! ), you will enjoy this epic journey.

Unblemished is the first book in Sara Ella's new trilogy! Unraveling, book two, releases July 2017! I. Can't. Wait.

I received a copy of Unblemished by Sara Ella published by Thomas Nelson from BookLook Bloggers. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you guys next time! Hugs and blessings!

V. Joy Palmer

The Sound of Silver Birthday Blog Tour!!! Plus a Giveaway!!!

Hey guys!!! Welcome to The Sound of Silver birthday blog tour! I’m  so excited to be posting today about Rachelle Rea Cobb’s second installment in the Steadfast Love Series, an inspirational historical romance set during the 16^th century!

Rachelle is also the author of The Sound of Diamonds, the first book in the series, and a newlywed! This summer, she married a man with the same first name as the hero of the series! (Cue the happy sighs here.)  Rachelle's Steadfast Love Series is published with WhiteFire Publishing. (Rachelle and I are the WhiteFire Babies.) I’m super excited to be joining in this blog tour to tell you a little more about Silver and spread the news about the rocking giveaway Rachelle is hosting — make sure you enter using the Rafflecopter form to win the lovely necklace pictured and your choice of any of the Steadfast Love titles!

 

About The Sound of Silver...

 

The stalwart saint and the redeemed rebel. One fights for faith, the other for honor…

After Dirk rescues Gwyneth from the Iconoclastic Fury, she discovers that faith is sometimes fragile—and hope is not as easy as it may seem. Gwyneth continues her quest to learn more about the love of God preached by Protestants she once distrusted.

Meanwhile, Dirk’s quest is to prevent his sullied name from staining hers. Will his choice to protect her prove the undoing of her first faltering steps toward a Father God? Once separated, will Dirk and Gwyneth’s searching hearts ever sing the same song?

 

Find The Sound of Silver on...

 

Amazon Paperback: http://is.gd/1HwJoi

Kindle: http://is.gd/EZ7DJ1

Barnes & Noble: http://is.gd/qhoCTc

Books a Million: http://is.gd/M2y5P2

Goodreads: http://is.gd/iBE2lJ

And if you want to learn more ABOUT BOOK ONE, The Sound of Diamonds...

Her only chance of getting home is trusting the man she hates.

With the protestant Elizabeth on the throne of England and her family in shambles, Catholic maiden Gwyneth seeks refuge in the Low Countries of Holland, hoping to soothe her aching soul. But when the Iconoclastic Fury descends and bloodshed overtakes her haven, she has no choice but to trust the rogue who arrives, promising to see her safely home to her uncle's castle. She doesn't dare to trust him...and yet doesn't dare to refuse her one chance to preserve her own life and those of the nuns she recues from the burning convent.

Dirk Godfrey is determined to restore his honor at whatever cost. Running from a tortured past, Dirk knows he has only one chance at redemption, and it lies with the lovely Gwyneth, who hates him for the crimes she thinks he committed. He must see her to safety, prove to the world that he is innocent, prove that her poor eyesight is not the only thing that has blinded her, but what is he to do when those goals clash?

The home Gwyneth knew is not what she once thought. When a dark secret and a twisted plot for power collide in a castle masquerading as a haven, the saint and the sinner must either dare to hold to hope...or be overcome.

Find The Sound of Diamonds on...

 

Amazon: http://is.gd/7z9vls

Kindle: http://is.gd/EZ7DJ1

Barnes & Noble: http://is.gd/qhoCTc

Books a Million: http://is.gd/M2y5P2

Goodreads: http://is.gd/F7HILk

 Ahhh! Giddy! This is so much fun. Speaking of fun, check out this interview with Rachelle!!!

 

Interview:

 

(Question) When and where did you first get the idea for the Steadfast Love Series?

(Rachelle) A song I was listening to on the radio inspired the title of the first book. So I wrote Diamonds, but when I finished it, I realized to my great frustration that the characters weren’t done with their story, even though I had been quite adamant that I would write a stand-alone novel. But the story wasn’t finished, so I kept writing.

(Question)  Readers often pick out favorite quotes from a novel. Do you have a favorite of your own from The Sound of Silver?

(Rachelle) Yes! In fact, my friend Mindy, a calligrapher, even created a beautiful piece of art from one of my favorite quotes: "Within the pages of books one’s heart can be revealed."

(Question)  Can you tell us what first drew you to writing Inspirational Historical Romance?

 

(Rachelle) My first exposure to the genre came when I read Heartsong Presents novels when I was twelve. Those small books introduced me to how much I believe in the power of story, especially love stories set in times gone by.

(Question)  I saw on your website that you also write reviews, articles and offer editing services. What's one of your favorite things beyond writing novels that you enjoy?

(Rachelle) Editing is such fun! I daresay I enjoy editing a page full of my own (or others’!) words just as much as I enjoy splashing words onto a blank page.

About the Steadfast Love Series

In 16th-century Europe, the Reformation rages between Protestants and Catholics. Gwyneth, half-Dutch, flees from England to Holland to escape the man who murdered her parents. When he follows her there and insists he came to rescue her, will she trust this man called Dirk? When tragedy strikes, will their steadfast love erode?

About the Author

Times gone by snatch Rachelle Rea Cobb close, so she reads and writes about years long ago--her passions include the Reformation, Revolutions, and romance. Rachelle wrote the Steadfast Love series during college. Five months after she graduated, she signed a three-book deal with her dream publisher, WhiteFire. She's a homeschool grad, Oreo addict, and plots her novels while driving around her dream car, a pick-up truck. In June 2016, she married a man with the same name as her fictional hero, and they live happily ever after in Small Town, South.

Author Links

 

Website: http://RachelleReaCobb.com/

Facebook: http://facebook.com/RachelleReaCobb

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RachelleReaCobb

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/RachelleReaCobb/

Instagram: @RachelleReaCobb

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Rachelle-Rea/e/B00RZHIL1Q

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8144149.Rachelle_Rea_Cobb

 

Enter using the Rafflecopter form below to win a beautiful necklace created by Baubles, Beads, and Stuff and your choice of any one of Rachelle’s three books (the series begins in Book One, of course, but in case you have one or two of her books already, Rachelle will gladly send you the next one to read!).

International friends, the paperback & necklace giveaway is open to continental U.S. addresses only (sorry!). But do still enter, because one international winner will also be chosen to receive an e-book.
 

 ~ Enter the Giveaway Here ~

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Thanks for joining the fun, guys! I hope you had an awesome time getting to know Rachelle. Check out her books!!!!!!! See you next time. :)

Hugs and blessings!


V. Joy Palmer

Review of Gilt Hollow by Lorie Langdon

Product Description:

Willow Lamott’s best friend is a convicted killer, and no one in the small town of Gilt Hollow will let her forget it. Over four long years, she’s tried to fade into the background—but none of that matters when Ashton Keller comes striding into school, fresh out of juvie and fueled by revenge. The moment their eyes meet, Willow no longer feels invisible. Drawn to the vulnerability behind Ashton’s mask of rage, she sinks deeper into his sinister world and begins to question whether he’s a villain, a savior, or both.

Ashton thought he wanted vengeance, until Willow Lamott stepped back into his life. Now he longs to clear his name and become the person she sees in him. But the closer they get to uncovering the truth, the darker the secrets become, and Ashton wonders if his return to Gilt Hollow will destroy everyone he loves.

My Thoughts:

Thrilling. Addictive. Loved.

That's the answer to the question, "How would you describe this book in three words?" Five Stars! Using more words could result in a never ending torrent of book love from yours truly... But lets give it a whirl!

Willow is your average girl, yet she's got some serious issues. Ashton is at the root of those issues, or is he? When he comes walking back into her life, it's like dynamite. And I don't just mean that because their romance is so. stinking. swoony. Gilt Hollow is a thrilling mystery! Each time I picked up this book, I was sucked into the story. All of a sudden, a hundred pages had been turned. And I desperately craved more!

Like I said, the romance was total swoonsville. The thrill resembled the first drop of a roller coaster. The mystery was intoxicating. While there's always someone who can spot the Big Twist, I doubt anyone could anticipate every twist in this mysterious beauty. Highly recommend!

*Reminder* Books published under the Blink imprint are intended for a general readership without being overtly Christian. My more conservative readers should note that there is a little bit of language, and eccentric is an understatement for this town and her inhabitants. However, what I found between these pages were two people struggling to find the truth in the midst of their darkness, and find it and God in the process.

Lorie Langdon is co-author of the popular (read fantastic) Doon series. Gilt Hollow is her first solo novel. Read. Them. All.

I received a copy of Gilt Hollow by Lorie Langdon published by Blink from BookLook Bloggers. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you guys next time! God bless and hugs!

V. Joy Palmer

Review of When Love Arrives by Johnnie Alexander

From the Back Cover:

Dani had planned to spy on Brett--so how did she end up on a date with him?

Dani Prescott can't believe the lie Brett Somers is trying to sell to the media. During an interview about the plane crash that killed his parents, he blamed Dani's mother. But the crash killed her as well. Vowing to restore her mother's reputation, Dani has been following Brett and taking photos, hoping to find something she can use to discredit him. But when she catches his eye instead, she quickly finds herself agreeing to a date. Brett knows this mystery girl is hiding something--but he's got his own secrets to keep. What will happen when he discovers who she really is?

My Thoughts:

How does the naïve girl with the sordid past catch the eye of the area's most eligible bachelor? Find out in this delightful contemporary romance, When Love Arrives, by Johnnie Alexander!

I adored all the witty banter! Loved seeing Dani and Brett go back and forth for pages. And all the references to classic movies - LOVE! Cause Cary Grant. *Swoon* A dreamy guy who knows and quotes Cary Grant? *Fainting Swoon*

Dani is really sweet. I can understand her hurt and her desire to clear her mother's name. Oh, and Dani, I probably would have done the same thing with the ring. ;) Brett was very well developed. You could see him fighting his playboy past, trying to be the man he should be for his family. You could feel his charm oozing off the pages, and then you'd want to slap that arrogant smirk off his face. And I think when a character makes you want to go from hugs to slapping, they are making you feel. Which is kinda the point. ;)

The spiritual plot is subtle. Dani and Brett both found their way back to God over the course of the story. It is a good read for someone who doesn't like to feel like they are being preached at throughout the story.

When Love Arrives is the second book in Johnnie Alexander's Misty Willow Series. You can read this as a stand alone novel, but some of the drama and character interaction will make more sense if you read Shelby and AJ's story, Where She Belongs, the first book in the Misty Willow Series. I'm looking forward to Amy's story!

I received a copy of When Love Arrives by Johnnie Alexander from Revell in exchange for my honest opinion, which I have given.

See you guys next time! God bless and hugs!

V. Joy Palmer

Review of To Have and to Hold by Betsy St. Amant, Becky Wade, and Katie Ganshert

From the Back Cover:

They’ve helped orchestrate the perfect day for countless couples. Now twelve new couples will find themselves in the wedding spotlight in the second Year of Weddings novella collection.

Love Takes the Cake: A September Wedding Story by Betsy St. Amant

Charlotte Cantrell is always the baker; never the bride. When Will, a regular at Charlotte’s bakery, catches her attention, she can only hope that he is the reliable man this single mother has always hoped to find. The problem is that he’s regularly stopping in to buy cookies for another girl. But when Charlotte is hired to bake a host of wedding goodies for a difficult bride and finds out Will is the best man, she has the perfect opportunity to get to know him better—and find out how serious Will is about this other girl in his life.

The Perfect Arrangement: An October Wedding Story by Katie Ganshert

Amelia Woods is a small-town wallflower and the proud owner of Forget-Me-Nots, a quaint flower shop. Her love life has always been a bit lackluster—until she ends up in an embarrassing fender-bender with handsome Nate Gallagher. Meanwhile, Amelia’s younger brother, William, has proposed to his girlfriend. Amelia would be excited except she has evidence that the fiancée is not who she says she is. It seems Nate is the only one available for any advice-giving, and he’s good at it—and pretty fun to talk to too. As Amelia works to craft the perfect flower arrangements for other people, she begins to wonder if real love is better than the dream. And if it is, will Nate still be interested when he learns who she is?

Love in the Details: A November Wedding Story by Becky Wade

When Josh returns to his hometown of Martinsburg, Texas, to help his best friend get married, he didn’t intend to run into church wedding coordinator—and ex-girlfriend—Holly. He can’t help but pine after the girl he never got over. Holly broke up with Josh years ago in an attempt to ensure his future success. But she loved him then and still loves him now. As she helps him plan his best friend’s wedding, she longs to be with Josh but doesn’t feel worthy of his big-time lifestyle when she is more comfortable in her smalltown world. Will Josh and Holly be able to keep things as they are when their true feelings threaten to surface at every turn?

My Thoughts:

I love this novella collection! Sweet! Sassy! Romantic!

Bliss.

Love Takes the Cake ~

Such a sweet story. I love Betsy St. Amant's wit! Some people might feel like Charlotte and Will fall into the cliché of just needing to talk. Yeah, there are some misunderstandings, but I felt like they were pretty believable. Charlotte acted out of a place of deep hurt and because she had her daughter to protect.  And Will. What a guy! He was well developed for such a short story.

The Perfect Arrangement ~

LOVE THIS STORY!

Ok, first, this story is written in first person from Amelia's perspective - my favorite thing in the world! She's so much fun! And Nate. Sigh. He quotes Mr. Darcy and knows old Cary Grant and Jimmy Stewart movies. Need I say more?

Love in the Details ~

Such a sweet story! Josh is a handsome nerd and Holly is a YA writer - I loved that! Becky Wade paints such lovely word pictures. And I love stories of unrequited love and second chances. <3 *Sigh.*

I received a copy of To Have and to Hold: Three Autumn Love Stories (A Year of Weddings Novella) by Betsy St. Amant, Becky Wade, and Katie Ganshert published by Zondervan from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest opinion, which I have given.

God bless you guys! See you next time!

V. Joy Palmer

Ramblings from ACFW

So I was out of town this last week. I would have written this sooner, but I was recovering from major jet lag (I was on central time instead of eastern for four days! Yeah!), and a baby in the middle of a sleep regression (Ah, the days when I didn't know the horror of those words. The days when I slept...). Anyways. I was at ACFW. The American Christian Fiction Writer's Conference.

A. Maz. Ing.




I love this conference so much. I wouldn't be published without this conference. I wouldn't have met such wonderful friends without this conference. I wouldn't be pushed a little bit more out of my shell each year without this conference.

As an introvert, I could maybe do without that last part.

I had goals for this conference. I WASN'T going to chase appointments this year. I wanted to focus on making new friendships, connections, and actually sitting through a class from start to finish.

But I had another goal, as well.

I wanted God to show up. I wanted to be refreshed. Transformed. Revived.

And if you ask for God to show up, you had better mean it. Because He did. And I ended up ugly crying all over two dear friends. Seriously. I resembled a sniveling two-year-old.

And I forgot to put stinking tissues in my purse.

But God showed up. He came for me. And that was just the start.

Maybe you're feeling sort of how I was feeling. In a ditch and everything is a fight. Difficult. Like all of the joy has been sucked out of you like you're one of those vacuum sealed storage bags.

God's waiting for you.

Get out. Get away. Go somewhere different (I'm a fan of the lake or the river.). Bring your Bible. Cry and don't give a flying fig about what the random strangers passing by you are thinking.

Or don't do any of that.

Just ask God to show up. And He will.

Hugs, friends.

 

V. Joy Palmer

Review of Without Warning by Lynette Eason

From the Back Cover:

Intensity. Skill. Tenacity.

The bodyguards of Elite Guardians Agency have it all.

Katie Singleton, a partner with the Elite Guardians Protection Agency, stumbles upon her next assignment quite by accident. Spotting blue lights at a familiar restaurant, she stops to investigate, only to discover that owner Daniel Matthews has become the target of someone who will go to any lengths to put him out of business.

Daniel might be concerned, but he's not convinced that a bodyguard--and a female one at that--is necessary. A new attack and his niece's urgings are enough to make him reconsider. He and Katie must figure out who's behind the intimidation and threats--before a would-be killer strikes again.

 

My Thoughts:

Katie and Daniel both struggle with difficult pasts, one of their many similarities. But it takes a dead body in Daniel's restaurant to really bring the pair together. Prepare for ups and downs, raw honesty, explosions, and an angle you don't see coming. Without Warning is the second book in the Elite Guardians Series.

I enjoyed Without Warning. The suspense was well paced, with some hold-your-breath scenes. The last hundred and twenty pages flew because I HAD to keep reading.

The only drawback for me was that I didn't connect to the main characters as much as I normally do. Must be something wrong with me. LOL. I also would have liked to have seen the romance developed a little more between Katie and Daniel.

Three and half stars! Good story!

 

I received a copy of Without Warning by Lynette Eason from Revell Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion, which I have given.

 

God bless you guys! See you next time!! :)

 

V. Joy Palmer
 

Review of Perfection by Danyele Patrick

From the Back Cover:

To the outsider, Georgia's life appears perfect. She is a young up-and-coming Hollywood actress with her own television show and spot in the constant limelight of the tabloids. But when the ghosts of her past beckon her to come home to her small town, she must come to terms with the family she has left behind as well as the truth about herself. She must answer pressing questions: Is perfection truly attainable? And if so, is it worth losing yourself to find it?

My Thoughts:

Georgia is a famous actress with seemingly everything she could want, but there's a huge whole in her heart. It takes confronting the past and a handy handyman to help her realize what's missing - God.

So, I liked the premise of this story. A Hollywood star coming back to God and falling in love? Um, yes please! Perfection reminded me of a Hallmark movie, and it was a very clean read. The author worked in some great spiritual lessons, and I appreciated The Prodigal Son angle to the story.

However, some of the story felt too perfect for me. I didn't see enough consequences for Georgia's actions, and at times it didn't really feel like she was a famous star because there wasn't - in my opinion - enough blowback. Also, I would have liked to see more, deeper character development for Georgia and Chris. I think with more attention to these details an alright story would have become an award-winning, bestseller.

Two and a half stars. A sweet story, but it wasn't my taste. However, don't let my opinion stop you. Read the story and decide for yourself.

I received a copy of Perfection by Danyele Patrick from the author in exchange for my honest opinion, which I have given.

God bless you guys! See you next time!! :)

 

V. Joy Palmer

Review of Forever Doon by Carey Corp and Lorie Langdon

Book Description:

With the witch of Doon on the throne, Jamie believed dead, and Duncan and Mackenna trapped in Alloway, Veronica has no choice but to put her grief aside and prepare her remaining followers for the impending battle against the false queen and her forces. But while on a covert mission to steal a powerful elixir from the castle, Veronica discovers her true love may actually be alive, and fighting a battle of his own.

With the Brig o’ Doon destroyed and the portal fragmented, Doon’s forces are not only divided, but also isolated in different dimensions. With the help of a storyteller as ancient as the witch herself, Kenna and Duncan learn they must rebuild the bridge to have any chance of crossing back into Doon with their ragtag army. But when Mackenna insists on fighting as well, Duncan soon realizes the only way he can ensure her safety is to turn her into a cold-hearted killer.

For Vee, Jamie, Kenna, and Duncan, saving their kingdom while keeping their lives intact will take a miracle.

*Reminder* Books published under the Blink imprint are intended for a general readership without being overtly Christian.

My Thoughts:

When I finished Forever Doon I texted my husband, "I finished Doon. I feel like I just lost my kingdom." So, yeah. I'm pretty much in love with this series. I'm suffering from sever book death now. (Book Death is a little know condition that refers to when you finish the last book of a series you completely adore.)

This story is... Breathtaking? Heart wrenching? Thought provoking? Funny? Intense? Swoony? Powerful? Checky, check, check. From the desperation in the beginning to the epic final battle to the bittersweet last page, you won't want to put down this spell-binding story. Carey Corp and Lorie Langdon weave in key details that continue throughout the series, and while the ending was perfect, it was written with losses, questions, and choices. And in my opinion, that is the mark of a mature writer, or in this case, writers. I held my breath, rejoiced, cried, and loved right along with Vee and Kenna! And I loved being able to read from Duncan and Jamie's perspectives, too!

You don't want to miss the stunning conclusion of the equally stunning Doon Series. Five Stars! If you haven't read the previous books, you may be a little lost if you read the last book. Normally it doesn't matter to me if you read a series out of order. Confession - I do it all the time. But seriously, why wouldn't you want to read the first three books? GO GET THEM! READ THEM ALL!

I received a copy of Forever Doon by Carey Corp and Lorie Langdon published by Blink from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest opinion, which I have given.

God bless you guys! See you next time!

V. Joy Palmer

Review of No Way Up by Mary Connealy

From the Back Cover:

The Fight for the Cimarron Ranch Has Just Begun!

When Cimarron Ranch patriarch Chance Boden is caught in an avalanche, only the quick actions of hired hand Heath Kincaid save him. Before leaving by train to receive treatment to save his leg--and possibly his life--Chance demands that Heath read the patriarch's will and see its conditions enforced immediately. If Chance's three bickering adult children, Justin, Sadie, and Cole, don't live and work at the ranch for an entire year, ownership of the ranch will pass to a despised distant relative.

Before long, however, Heath discovers that the avalanche may have been intentionally set--and that more danger lurks ominously. Finding his own future--and a desired future with Sadie--locked up in saving the Cimarron Ranch, Heath and the Boden siblings must work together against outside forces that threaten them all.

 

My Thoughts:

 

Realistic. Mysterious. Hilarious. Sadie Boden's father is trying to control her life! But maybe that won't be so bad with Heath Kincaid (Yes, Mary Connealy fans, Kincaid!) around, as long as she can keep her knuckleheaded brothers from running him out of town. Things become even more complicated when it becomes apparent that someone is targeting Sadie's family. I quite enjoyed this spunky story!

The setting and the details seemed so grounded in the time period. The description captured me from the first chapter. I love the history - both real and imagined - that Mary Connealy worked into the story.

I think what I loved most though, was the imperfections of the characters. I feel like a lot of series where each book portrays a different sibling makes them each look like the greatest thing since sliced bread. But you could see all the realistic imperfections of the characters. They were so relatable. From Chance's loving yet manipulative attempt to teach his children to Justin and Cole's pigheadedness. Even Sadie and Heath didn't have everything figured out at the end of the story. They just knew they loved each other, and that that love could overcome all the other obstacles. Love that!

Bottom line: I really liked No Way Up, and I recommend it to anyone who loves romantic westerns. Can't wait to read the rest of the series! Four Stars.

 

I received a copy of No Way Up by Mary Connealy from Bethany House in exchange for my honest opinion, which I have given.

See you guys next time! Have an awesome day! :)

 

V. Joy Palmer

Winners!!!

The winners!!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Congrats Jan Hall and Dianne Nickel Casey! The Rafflecopter selected you both for the first and second winners. You will each receive a signed copy of Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations!

Vicki Geslak, the Rafflecopter selected you to be the winner of a signed copy of Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations, and these goodies!

 

 Thank you to everyone who entered! You sure blessed my heart! Stay tuned for more giveaways!

 

Hugs!!! :) :) :) <3 <3 <3

 

V. Joy Palmer



Review of Missing by Lisa Harris

Back cover description:

Nikki Boyd isn't usually called in on homicides; her forte is missing persons. But when a case with two murdered and two missing pops up on a quiet suburban street, she's ready to start the investigation and find missing homeowners Mac and Lucy Hudson. When the first clues lead her to the boat of her friend Tyler Grant--and another dead body--Nikki must untangle what ties Tyler to the Hudsons. The clues pull her into a deadly maze of counterfeit drugs and a killer who will stop at nothing to silence anyone who threatens his business--including Nikki.

My thoughts:

Expect to be missing sleep as you read Missing by Lisa Harris!

Nikki is a strong heroine, and I really like that about her. She's logical, but empathetic. Brave, but has weaknesses and fears just like us. She struggles with letting go of the guilt she feels over her sister's abduction, and is learning how to give that to God. I loved the counterfeit drug storyline. I thought that was very original, and so well researched that I'm going to be paranoid for the rest of my life! Thanks for that, Lisa Harris! :)

While I enjoyed Missing, I didn't think it was as good as Vendetta. Vendetta was perfectly paced, and each time you finished a chapter, you HAD to start reading the next chapter. I didn't feel that way with Missing. There were still a lot of edge-of-your-seat moments, but there were also a lot of slower moments, too. The romance is not the main focus of the story, and was also slower paced. I've never been a fan of this particular backstory for the hero, but even I can't deny the swoony chemistry between Nikki and Tyler. Just wait for The Moment. It's worth it. :)

I received Missing by Lisa Harris from Revell Publishing in exchange for my honest opinion, which I have given.

God bless y'all! See you next time! :)

V. Joy Palmer

Review of One Paris Summer

Book description:

Most teens dream of visiting the City of Lights, but it feels more like a nightmare for Sophie Brooks. She and her brother are sent to Paris to spend the summer with their father, who left home a year ago without any explanation. As if his sudden abandonment weren't betrayal enough, he's about to remarry, and they’re expected to play nice with his soon-to-be wife and stepdaughter. The stepdaughter, Camille, agrees to show them around the city, but she makes it clear that she will do everything in her power to make Sophie miserable.

Sophie could deal with all the pain and humiliation if only she could practice piano. Her dream is to become a pianist, and she was supposed to spend the summer preparing for a scholarship competition. Even though her father moved to Paris to pursue his own dream, he clearly doesn't support hers. His promise to provide her with a piano goes unfulfilled.

Still, no one is immune to Paris’s charm. After a few encounters with a gorgeous French boy, Sophie finds herself warming to the city, particularly when she discovers that he can help her practice piano. There’s just one hitch—he’s a friend of Camille’s, and Camille hates Sophie. While the summer Sophie dreaded promises to become best summer of her life, one person could ruin it all.

My thoughts:

This was such a cute romance!!!

So Sophie's father has basically up and moved to Paris, not spoken to her or her brother for almost a year, and then drops a bomb - "I'm getting remarried next week." Uh oh. Now they have to spend the summer in Paris which would be great if Sophie wasn't wounded by the horrid way their dad handled the situation, if Sophie could even speak French, or if her new stepsister didn't hate her guts for no reason.

I related so much to Sophie! Seriously, she is one of the most relatable teens I've read in YA in a while. She's just your average girl with passions and hurts. She loves to play the piano, and her passion for it just flows through the book without drawing focus away from the storyline. I thought Denise Grover Swank did a good job at portraying Sophie's hurt, anger, and confusion throughout the story.

The description of Paris was amazing. Like this-will-be-in-my-bag-if-I-ever-go-to-Paris amazing. Sophie and Mattieu's romance was oh so very swoon worthy! Oh, the butterflies, my friends! Fans of Sarah Dessen are sure to enjoy One Paris Summer.

I also want to remind everyone that while Blink is a Christian imprint of Zondervan, their titles are much more mainstream. Blink specializes in clean YA fiction, and an editor at Blink recently wrote a great blog post about what "clean" YA means. Their stories have Christian tones, but may mention very little if any Christianity.

Bottom line: This is a sweet, easy to read, clean YA romance that teens and adults are sure to love! I really enjoyed it. Four stars. :)

I received a copy of One Paris Summer by Denise Grover Swank from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest opinion, which I have given.

God bless you guys! See you next time!

V. Joy Palmer

Review of Delilah by Angela Hunt

From the back cover:

A Complex and Compelling Glimpse at One of the Bible's Most Notorious Women.

Life is not easy in Philistia, especially not for a woman and child alone. When beautiful, wounded Delilah finds herself begging for food to survive, she resolves that she will find a way to defeat all the men who have taken advantage of her. She will overcome the roadblocks life has set before her, and she will find riches and victory for herself.

When she meets a legendary man called Samson, she senses that in him lies the means for her victory. By winning, seducing, and betraying the hero of the Hebrews, she will attain a position of national prominence. After all, she is beautiful, she is charming, and she is smart. No man, not even a supernaturally gifted strongman, can best her in a war of wits.

My thoughts:

Oh. My. Goodness! Yeah, I loved Delilah. Maybe not as much as Bathsheba, but pure, crazy book love fore sure!

It's important to remember that this is a fiction story. Very little is known about Samson and Delilah, but what we do know, Angela Hunt made sure was Biblically accurate. I'd recommend reading the author note at the end of the book before you dive into Samson and Delilah's story.

Angela created a devastating backstory for Delilah. It was so vivid, and I understood Delilah. I understood her desperation, her desires, her pain. It helped me understand why she would rationalize betraying Samson.

Samson warred with his desire for love and to be his own man which clashed against God's will for his life. I thought Angela Hunt's portrayal of Samson was very insightful. Instead of reading a judgmental or placating story, we saw a man. A man who screwed up, but loved God.

Delilah is the third and final book in the Dangerous Beauty Series. The description of the setting, the political struggle, the devastation of God's people was depicted beautifully. This was a breathtaking, heart crushing, insightful story.  This story has everything - romance, betrayal, battles, hope, and forgiveness. Everyone should read this incredible series, but that's just the opinion of one bookworm.

I received a copy of Delilah by Angela Hunt from Bethany House in exchange for my honest opinion, which I have given.

God bless you guys! See you next time! :)

V. Joy Palmer

Link to Snack Time Devotions blog post: The Walk

Hey guys! Here's the link to my latest blog on Sanck Time Devotions. I talk about the Christian walk.

God bless!


V. Joy Palmer

Review of All Summer Long

From the back cover:

She's ready to take on a new challenge. What she doesn't expect is an old flame.
Tia D'Amico is thrilled to move to San Francisco to help her aunt transform an old luxury yacht into an upscale floating restaurant. What's not to love? Sunset dinner cruises, posh wedding receptions--the possibilities are endless and far more appetizing than staying in a monotonous job in her Podunk hometown. Besides, some of her best memories are tied to San Francisco--especially the memory of Leo Parker, her crush from a long-ago sailing camp.

When Leo Parker himself turns out to be the yacht's captain, Tia is floating on air. But will it all come crashing down around her when she discovers his heart belongs to someone else?

My thoughts:

All Summer Long was a light, sweet summery romance. It's the kind of book that anyone can pick up and enjoy. Tia D'Amico leaves everything she's every know for an exciting opportunity - being the head chef on her aunt's yacht, which desperately needs some TLC. She meets her longtime crush, Leo Parker, almost immediately. It seems like a dream come true until Tia finds out Leo is engaged to the lovely Natalie. I think "sweet" would be the number one word I would use to describe this book!  Also, the description of the setting, San  Francisco, was absolutely stunning. I felt like I was riding with Tia on the boat, roasting hot dogs while gazing at the Golden Gate Bridge.

I am a huge fan of Melody Carlson. That being said, this wasn't quite what I expected. The love triangle was the tried and true method, and once that was resolved Tia and Leo's romance moved along very quickly. Melody Carlson has this unique way of portraying spiritual truths, but this focused on the love story. I missed her keen spiritual insight, but I think this was supposed to be a lighter story that everyone could enjoy.

Bottom line: I enjoyed the story, but it didn't compel me the way her stories normally do. I still want to read the next book in the Follow Your Heart Series, and I will still continue to fervently enjoy Melody Carlson's stories.

I received a copy of All Summer Long by Melody Carlson from Revell Publishing in exchange for my honest opinion, which I have given.

God bless you guys!

V. Joy Palmer

Review of I Always Cry at Weddings by Sara Goff

Description:

Ava Larson is going to bring all the other brides to tears.
Engaged to a wealthy NYC socialite's son, Ava is ready to set the city abuzz with her glamorous wedding. At least until she realizes her relationship isn't what it should be. Then, in a move as daring as a red satin dress, she does the unthinkable--she calls it all off and makes a promise to God that from now on, she'll save sex for marriage. She's convinced the future is hers for the taking, especially when an undercover cop promises a new romance...and an unexpected friendship with the homeless guy under her stoop brightens her days. But when her carefully balanced life teeters out of control, weddings aren't the only thing to make her cry. Ava has to figure out what life she really wants to live...and what in the world love really means

My Thoughts:

Ava grew up learning about God, but like so many of us, she's started doing her own thing. But the lessons she learned stick with her. In seemingly crazy move, Ava changes her life and tries to seek God's will - whatever that is. This leads Ava all over the place in this Christian mainstream novel.

For awhile Ava looks for love in all the wrong places. (Cue the Out of Eden song here.) There is a romance in the story, but it is not the focus. The focus is on the journey Ava takes. Yeah, there are times you want to shake some sense into Ava, but that's the point. The journey. The journey that thousands of young women are taking right now. And sometimes you have to walk through the mud to get to the bookstore. ;)

I'd recommend this story to pretty much anyone, but especially those who like a true to life story. Sara Goff does not shy away from uncomfortable topics like a lot of Christian novels do. I loved I Always Cry at Weddings! Great job Sara Goff!

Five Stars!

I purchased this novel for my personal library. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

God bless you guys! See you next time!

 Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

Book Release and Giveaway!!!

IT'S RELEASE DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



Isabel “Izze” Vez, bridal consultant extraordinaire, has been helping brides find The Dress for years. She loves nothing more than helping make wedding dreams come true…but sometimes the happy endings grate on her. How many times can a girl discover someone else’s gown without dreaming of the day it’ll be her turn to wear one?

When James Miles Clayton walks into her life, he represents everything Izze can’t handle: change. He’s determined to bring the Ever After Bridal Boutique into the black…and to prove to Izze that she should give him a chance.

But if there’s anything Izze handles worse than change, it’s trust. She may have a few issues—fine, she knows she does. But will they keep getting in the way of any chance of her own Happily Ever After? She wants to trust God to give her those dreams of love and lace, but that’s going to require some…minor alterations.

Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations is available now! This romantic comedy arrives just in time for all the June weddings. I'm so excited and nervous and nauseous and thrilled and awed! ;)

I started writing this story six years ago when I was 18. I had never been on a date, and the guy I liked (who is now my husband) was frustrating me. One day while working, Izze popped into my head. She was spunky in all the ways I was too afraid to show the world. Obsessed with weddings like me, yet frustrated because she also wanted to be in a relationship and get married. I could almost hear "I Need a Hero" playing in my ears as I envisioned this girl. I had started writing dozens of stories before this one, but I had a Daniel moment and purposed in my heart that this was THE ONE I was going to finish.

And I did. After four-ish years, which can be broken down into fourteen months of frustration, fifteen months of dating, one ACFW writers conference, six months of engagement, and thirteen months of marriage.

Truthfully, I wrote about half of this book in the months leading up to my second ACFW conference. After hours and hours of typing, plotting, editing, and re-plotting, I climbed aboard a plan that took me to Missouri. There I meet Roseanna White (who is awesome, by the way!).

A few months and several rejection letters later, I got the best e-mail ever! My first completed manuscript was going to be published! I was so, so blessed. That rarely happens in the publishing world.

So here we are.

All I can think is that I'm so blessed. I hope you guys will do me the extraordinary honor of reading my book. I put so much of my heart into this story, but more importantly, I let God teach me through the ups and downs in the process of dreaming up, writing, and editing this book. I hope it blesses you. I hope you fall in love with Izze and Miles. I hope you can laugh and learn with them. But I hope you fall even more in love with the Great Lover of our souls.

Since this is a very special day, I'm running a very special giveaway. You have not one, not two, but three chances to win!

Two people will each receive a signed copy of  Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations!! Yay!

And the third will receive a signed copy Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations, a $25.00 Starbucks gift card, a journal, a pink scarf, a box of jelly cookies, and two Lindt chocolate bars (dark chocolate with sea salt & dark chocolate with orange)!!! (*There are allergens in the cookies and chocolate. Do not eat without checking the ingredients first!*)

*Important Giveaway Information:*  Unfortunately this giveaway is only open to those who live in the United States of America. I'm so sorry if that means you can't participate. :( I will eat pans of brownies in your honor! Please share this post on Facebook, Twitter, or Google to enter. Also:  The contest will be running from now until 12:00 A.M. July 16, 2016.

Enter here ~~~

a Rafflecopter giveaway

God bless you guys! :)

V. Joy Palmer

Review of Her One and Only

From the Back Cover:

After ten years in the NFL, superstar Gray Fowler is accustomed to obsessive fans. But when Gray starts receiving death threats from a stalker, his team hires an executive protection agency to guard him until the culprit is caught. Dealing with bodyguards 24/7 is a headache, especially when one of them is a young, beautiful woman. How can a female half his size possibly protect him better than he can protect himself?

Dru Porter is a former Marine, an expert markswoman, and a black belt--none of which saved her from disaster on her last assignment. In order to rebuild her tarnished reputation, she's determined to find Gray's stalker and, since relationships between agents and clients are forbidden, avoid a romantic attachment between herself and the rugged football player with the mysterious past.

Yet every secret that leads Dru closer to the stalker also draws her closer to Gray. As the danger escalates, they'll survive only if they can learn to trust their lives--and their hearts--to one another.

My Thoughts:

Can I just say that I love Big Football Player and Revengeress? Their chemistry is A-MAZ-ING! The dialogue is so much fun and wonderfully sarcastic. There's a part of me that kinda wants to be Dru!

I love Gray in all of his hunky imperfectness. I relate to his flaws and fears, and I love that he wants to be better, tries to be better. I love Dru for being tough enough to know what she needs - even if it's not what she wants. Becky's theme for this story was "letting go," and I think she nailed it perfectly. Dru and Gray are living a life that consists of letting go of hurts, lies, misconceptions, failures, images of themselves - before, during, and after the course of the novel. That's the kind of writing that makes characters come alive.

My only critique would be that sometimes the story just felt long. I love big books, but I think maybe a few scenes weren't necessary. They were really good! But slowed things down just a tad.

Her One and Only is the last book in the Porter Family Series, but I think you can read the story as a stand alone, too. You see Jake, Ty, and Bo, their wives, and their kids - we even got some scenes from Meg's perspective - but it's not confusing. It's rather fun getting to see all of them in the future thanks to this little time jump. Truthfully, it's kind of unfair that you don't get to see Dru and Gray have kids and navigate married life. Maybe Becky Wade will surprise us with a novella in a few years so we can visit with our dear friends again. Cough. *Hint. Hint.* Cough. ;)

I received a copy of Her One and Only by Becky Wade from Bethany House in exchange for my honest opinion, which I have given.

God bless you guys! See you next time!

V. Joy Palmer

Sign Up to Influence Love, Lace, And Minor Alterations!

Guys! So excited! This is the influencer sign up form!!! I'm looking for some more reviewers and influencers, so if you are interested, I'd love to have your help!

Once you fill out this form, you are volunteering to be an influencer. What does an influencer do? Well, that depends on the agreement between author and the influencing individual. Here's what I'm asking my influencers to do:

1. You will receive an e-book copy of Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations. Please read Izze and Miles' story and  post a honest review on at least one retailer website - especially Amazon. If you have a blog, that is good, too. It doesn't have to be big and flowery. Simple and short is good, too. If you are looking for suggestions, this is a good example: "Super Awesome!" ;)

In the event you don't like the story, that's okay. We will still be friends. :)  However, please post a review anyways. No review at all is worse than an honest, negative review, especially on Amazon. However, please try to note some positive points in your review.

2. Please try to commit to sharing at least one of my book promo posts on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter on your profile pages once a week for six weeks. Simply share one of the posts from one of my profiles onto yours.

3. Talk the ears off of everyone around you about Izze and Miles. :)

That's all! Pretty simple! If you still want to help, and the ears of those around you remain intact, you are welcome to (but not required to) request a copy for your local library, recommend it for your next book club read, or lend it to a friend.

*IMPORTANT* Unfortunately, everyone may not be able to participate. There is only a limited number of spots available. I wish everyone could participate, but influencers will be selected on a first come basis. If you are not able to participate as an influencer, I hope that you will still buy the book and tell your friends. Also, influencer copies will be primarily e-books. I'm so sorry if that prohibits anyone from participating.

Thank you so much for your help, guys! You are all supremely awesome. I'm sending you hugs, and I will eat pans of brownies in your honor!

Thanks to Google, you can sign up here! You'll see the same instructions on the form.

Thank you! God bless you guys!!!




Isabel Izze Vez, bridal consultant extraordinaire, has been helping brides find their perfect wedding gowns for years. All the happy endings are starting to grate on her. How many wedding dresses does Izze have to help other brides find before she actually gets to wear one herself? After experiencing a failed romance several years earlier, Izze begins barraging God: When will it be her turn?
When James Miles Clayton walks into her life, a fragile relationship is formed, but will their rocky start and a misunderstanding at work destroy everything? More importantly, will Izze let go of her shattered dreams, and trust God for a beautiful future?

V. Joy Palmer