The Tutor's Daughter

The Tutor's Daughter

by Julie Klassen


About the book (from the back cover):

Emma Smallwood, determined to help her widowed father when his boarding school fails, accompanies him to the cliff-top manor of a baronet and his four sons. But soon after they arrive and begin teaching the two younger boys, mysterious things begin to happen. Who does Emma hear playing the pianoforte at night, only to find the music room empty? And who begins sneaking into her bedchamber, leaving behind strange mementos? The baronet's older sons, Phillip and Henry Weston, wrestle with problems -- and secrets -- of their own. They both remember the studious Miss Smallwood from their days at her father's academy. But now one of them finds himself unexpectedly drawn to her... 

When suspicions escalate, can Emma figure out which brother to blame and which to trust with her heart? Filled with page-turning suspense, The Tutor's Daughter takes readers to the windswept Cornwall coast -- a place infamous for shipwrecks and superstitions -- where danger lurks, faith is tested, and romance awaits. 

My take:

I absolutely adored this book! I am a huge Julie Klassen fan, and was thrilled when I saw her newest book was up for review. I was definitely not disappointed when I read this one!

I loved this book so much, I can't say enough about it. Before I read this one, my favorite Julie Klassen book was The Maid of Fairbourne Hall. But now I think it is a tie between that one and The Tutor's Daughter! I really enjoyed discovering the mystery of who was playing the pianoforte at night, and who was slipping into Emma's room at night. And I was very pleasantly surprised to fall in love with one of the characters I seriously disliked in the beginning!

Reading this book and Klassen's other books has renewed my interest in revisiting England someday. I am hoping that day comes sooner rather than later! Cornwall (where this book takes place) is going on my list of places to visit!

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction/romance in the Regency period. I happily give this one a "5."


About the author:

Julie Klassen loves all things Jane - Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. She has won the Christy Award: Historical Romance for The Silent Governess (2010) and The Girl in the Gatehouse (2011) which also won the 2010 Midwest Book Award for Genre Fiction. Julie and her husband have two sons and live in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota. Find out more about Julie at http://www.julieklassen.com/.




Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Deposit Slip

The Deposit Slip

by Todd M. Johnson

From the back cover:

Erin Larson is running out of options. In the wake of her father's death, she found a slim piece of paper - a deposit slip - with an unbelievable amount of money on it. Only the bank claims they have no record of money, and trying to hire a lawyer has brought only intimidation and threats. Erin's last chance is Jared Neaton. When Jared wearied of the shady ethics of his big law firm and went out on his own, he never expected the wheels to fly off so quickly. One big loss has pushed him to the brink, and it's all he can do to scrape by. He's not sure if Erin's case is worth the risk, but if the money is real, all his problems could vanish. When digging deeper unleashes something far more dangerous than just threats, both Jared and Erin must decide the cost they're willing to pay to discover the truth.

My take:

I really enjoyed this book, but found it to be very slow moving for my tastes. That being said, I loved the premise of the story. I found myself wondering if a bank really could hide a deposit (this seemed kind of unlikely to me, as I believe all banks are part of the FDIC). But it was still an interesting thought to ponder. The book reminded me a lot of a John Grisham novel, without the language and immorality. One thing I wished would have been a bit more prominent is Jared Neaton's love interest. Maybe it's because I'm a girl, but I really enjoy reading a good love story. I know this wasn't meant to be a romance, and I'm not trying to make it into one, but I would have enjoyed reading a bit more of the "romantic tension" in the story. I am kind of hoping the lack of it means there will be a sequel. Overall, I really did enjoy this book and give it a "4."


About the author:

Todd M. Johnson has practiced as an attorney for over thirty years, specializing as a trial lawyer. A graduate of Princeton University and the University of Minnesota Law School, he also taught for two years as adjunct professor of International Law and served as a U.S. diplomat in Hong Kong. He lives outside Minneapolis, Minnesota, with his wife, his son, Ian, and his daughter, Libby. This is his debut novel. Visit his website at www.authortoddmjohnson.com.





Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

My Stubborn Heart

My Stubborn Heart

by Becky Wade

From the back cover:

Kate Donovan is burned out on work, worn down by her dating relationships, and in need of an adventure. When her grandmother asks her to accompany her to Redbud, Pennsylvania, to restore the grand old house she grew up in, Kate jumps at the chance. Upon her arrival in Redbud, Kate meets Matt Jarreau, the man hired to renovate the house. Kate can't help being attracted to him, drawn by both his good looks and something else she can't quite put her finger on. He's clearly wounded - hiding from people, from God, and from his past. Yet Kate sets her stubborn heart on bringing him out of the dark and back into the light...whether he likes it or not. When the stilted, uncomfortable interactions between Kate and Matt slowly shift into something more, is God finally answering the longing of her heart? Or will Kate be required to give up more than she ever dreamed?

My take:

I first heard about this book when my friend Becky reviewed it on her blog.  She rated it highly, and when she loves a book, most of the time I love it too. I finally got the chance to read it, and boy am I sorry I waited so long! I can't begin to recount how much I loved this book. From the setting in Redbud, Pennsylvania, the rich descriptions, the memorable characters...I loved all of it! Wade does an excellent job of building up tension/romance between Kate and Matt. I also loved Gran, Velma, and Morty. I found myself wishing I could go over to Chapel Bluff for a game of poker with them! 


I want to preface what I'm about to say with reiterating how much I loved this book. The only thing I wasn't entirely crazy about was Matt's dark, withdrawn personality. It seems that so many women go for men who are "emotionally unavailable," myself included (in the past). I don't consider this very healthy, and hope women reading it don't think they can change a man who is this way. That being said, I also recognize God's powerful work in a life, and know that He and only He can change someone for the better.

I probably went on a bit more for a book review, but I felt the need to elaborate a bit on the subject since it is one I feel strongly about. I also realize this is just a book of fiction, and it is fun to dream about "what could be."

I would recommend this one to anyone who enjoys a good inspirational romance. I give it a "5."


About the author:

Becky Wade is a graduate of Baylor University. As a newlywed, she lived for three years in a home overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, as well as in Australia, before returning to the States. A mom of three young children, Becky and her family now live in Dallas, Texas. Visit www.beckywade.com to learn more about Becky, her writing, and a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of My Stubborn Heart.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A Perfect Word for Every Occasion

A Perfect Word for Every Occasion

by Liz Duckworth

From the back of the book:

Have you ever wondered just what to say at a funeral, to a friend whose spouse is fighting cancer, or to someone going through a breakup? The right words don't always come easily. Sometimes we're so afraid to say the wrong thing that we say nothing at all or resort to cliches. But with a little help you can share the perfect message that will draw you nearer to friends and loved ones. This book offers examples and guidelines for things to say, lines to write, and Scripture verses to share. Full of encouraging messages organized by category - sympathy, thank-yous, congratulations, etc. - it will help you find the right words for formats old and new: Facebook messages, emails, cards, texting, receiving lines, birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, weddings, funerals, and more. You'll even discover what not to say. A Perfect Word for Every Occasion is a trustworthy resource for words to bless the ones you love.

My take:

The description on the back of the book definitely proved true as I read through the book. I think everyone has struggled at one point or another to come up with the right, non-offending words on an occasion or two. Duckworth gives guidelines for writing letters with meaning and offering helpful words. She even uses the humorous "Aunt me-me" to show what not to say. Duckworth rightly discusses how all of us become "Aunt me-mes" at some point or another, because it can be difficult to take on someone else's pain in order to offer encouraging and uplifting words in times of grief. She also discusses etiquette in today's social media age (something I believe is sorely needed).

I would highly recommend this book if you are having a hard time writing a difficult letter, or if you simply need guidance for how to write a wedding invitation. I especially appreciated how Duckworth included supporting scripture at the end of each chapter. I believe I will be using this as a "go to" guide for writing letters in the future. I give this a "5."

You can purchase the book here.


About the author:

Liz Duckworth is the author of critically acclaimed books such as Wildflower Living and Ragtail Remembers. With almost twenty years of experience in the Christian publishing field, Liz heads up Liz Duckworth Publishing Services. She lives in Colorado Springs, Colorado, with her husband and two sons.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Almost Amish

Almost Amish
by Kathryn Cushman

From the back cover:

Overcommitted and overwhelmed, Julie Charlton is at the breaking point. She knows she should feel blessed as a mother and wife - but she just feels exhausted. And then, the miraculous happens. Her sister-in-law Susan, a Martha Stewart-in-training, lands the chance to participate in a reality TV series about trying to live like the Amish and needs another family to join her. It's just the break Julie needs. But the summer adventure in simple living soon proves anything but simple. With the camera watching every move, Susan's drive for perfection feels a lot like what they left behind, while Julie suddenly finds herself needing to stand up for slowing down. Whether it's cooking, cleaning, or dressing differently, each new Amish challenge raises new complications...and soon each woman learns unexpected lessons about herself and her family.

My take:

When I first heard about this book, I was really interested in reading it. I have wondered at times what it would be like to live the Amish life and was curious to see how the author would portray a family doing just that. The book started out fairly interesting. I really was interested in Julie's story and how she was going to deal with Susan, her controlling sister-in-law. Then the further I got, the more drawn out the story seemed. By the time I was halfway through the book, I was ready for the story to be finished. While it wasn't an awful book, it just didn't keep my attention. I have to give this one 3 1/2 stars.


About the author:

Kathryn Cushman is a graduate of Samford University with a degree in pharmacy. She is the author of four previous novels including Leaving Yesterday and A Promise to Remember, which were both finalists for the Carol Award in Women's Fiction. Kathryn and her family currently live in Santa Barbara, CA. She enjoys hearing from readers at kathryncushman.com and on Facebook.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Messenger

The Messenger

by Siri Mitchell

From the back cover:

Hannah Sunderland felt content in her embrace of the Quaker faith...until her twin brother joined the Colonial cause and ended up in jail. She longs to bring some measure of comfort to him in the squalid prison, but her faith forbids it. The Friends believe that they are not to take sides, not to take up arms. She is not allowed to visit him, even if she were able to secure a pass. Jeremiah Jones, a Colonial spy, needs access to the jail to help rescue men important to the cause. Upon meeting Hannah, a plan begins to develop. Who would suspect a Quaker visiting a loved one? But Jeremiah is unprepared for Hannah, her determination to do right, to not lie. How can one be a spy and not lie? Hannah, in turn, is surprised by Jeremiah...for the way he forces her to confront her own beliefs, for the sensitivity and concern that he shows her despite the wounds he still carries. 

Try as I might, I could not get interested in this book. I tried 4 or 5 times to latch on to some part of the book that would keep my interest, but to no avail. I was disappointed, because I have read and loved several of Siri Mitchell's contemporary fiction novels. I had high standards for this book, because I loved The Cubicle Next Door and Moon Over Tokyo. In these novels, her style of first person writing, excellent characterizations, and descriptions kept my interest the whole time. The Messenger seemed to drag, and I couldn't relate to Hannah or Jeremiah. I felt little to no emotion from Hannah's character (this might be the Quaker part of her character, but I didn't care for it). I also found it difficult to jump from Hannah's thoughts, to Jeremiah's thoughts, and back.Though it pains me to write a negative review, I will not let this keep me from reading Siri Mitchell's books in the future. And honestly, I think it might just be my personal preference. I am sure someone else would love reading this book. From now on, though, I think I will stick to her contemporary fiction.



About the author:

Siri Mitchell graduated from the University of Washington with a business degree and worked in various levels of government. As a military spouse, she has lived all over the world, including Paris and Tokyo. Siri enjoys observing and learning from different cultures. She is fluent in French and loves sushi. Her tenth  novel, The Messenger follows prior Bethany House releases: A Constant Heart, Love's Pursuit, She Walks in Beauty, and A Heart Most Worthy. She Walks In Beauty won the inaugural INSPY award for Historical Fiction in December 2010. Three of Siri's novels, Chateau of Echoes, The Cubicle Next Door, and She Walks in Beauty were Christy Award finalists. Love's Pursuit was a finalist for the ACFW Carol Award.



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Captive Heart

The Captive Heart

by Dale Cramer

Publisher's description of the book:

Ravaged by disease, preyed upon by ruthless bandits, the Bender family's second year in Mexico has taken a grievous turn. Faced with impossible choices, the expatriate Amish discover, more than ever before, what it means to live by faith and not by sight. But it's Miriam who must make the hardest choice as her heart takes on a new and dangerous course. With constant danger looming over her beloved, displaced Amish community, is she willing to sacrifice everything for a man she's forbidden to love?

Almost a year ago I reviewed Paradise Valley, the book that preceded this one. I loved that book and the interesting way that Dale Cramer presented Amish life. When I saw that the sequel was available, I immediately requested it. I had been waiting almost a year to find out what happens to the Benders in Paradise Valley! This book didn't disappoint. Though it did move a little slow in the beginning chapters, I was fully engrossed in the story less than a quarter of the way through. I loved reading both Rachel's and Miriam's stories. Now I am finding myself disappointed that I have to wait another year to find out what happens to Miriam!

I would rate this book a 4 1/2 out of 5 stars. If you enjoy Amish fiction, you will definitely enjoy this one!

About the author:

Dale Cramer spent his formative years traveling the world as an Army brat, then settled in Georgia at the age of fifteen when his father retired. After high school he became an electrician, a job that took him to places as diverse as power plants, stadia, airports, high-rise office buildings, and a hard-rock mining operation. Twenty-five years of experiences in the trades provided him with the wealth of characters, stories and insights that populate his novels. When he married his childhood friend, Pam, in 1975 he had no way of knowing they would not have children until fifteen years later. In his early forties, when Dale left his job to become a stay-at-home dad, he suddenly found himself with time on his hands, so he pursued a lifelong dream and taught himself to write. Using an online writer's forum as a training ground, he wrote his first short stories in 1996. As his writing skills improved he turned to novels, publishing his first work, Sutter's Cross, in 2003. Since then, Dale has published four more novels and garnered a measure of critical acclaim with two Christy Awards, a listing among Publisher's Weekly's Best Books of 2004, and numerous other Best lists. Dale and his wife Pam live in Georgia with their two sons. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A Good and Perfect Gift

A Good and Perfect Gift

by Amy Julia Becker

Publisher's description: 

Things don't always go as planned - especially when it comes to our children. When her first baby, Penny, is given a frightening diagnosis, Amy Julia's world comes crashing down. Could she continue to trust God's goodness even through what felt like personal tragedy? But challenging surprises often lead to unforeseen joy, and disappointments can turn into blessings. This wise and beautiful book is more than a courageous story of raising a child against the odds -- it is a journey through the unexpected ups and downs of life and the discoveries that come along the way. 

This was a beautiful story of faith during unsettling circumstances, and the hope and joy that God brings when we fully trust Him. As I read this book, I felt myself being drawn into Amy Julia's story. It was interesting to read about the friends and family who didn't always have the right words to say. I also liked hearing the perspective of someone in ministry who is going through trying circumstances. 

I would give this book a "4" and recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading real stories about people, and also to anyone who might have a child with special needs or knows someone who does.

About the author:

Amy Julia Becker is the author of A Good and Perfect Gift: Faith, Expectations, and a Little Girl Named Penny, named one of the Top Books of 2011 by Publisher's Weekly, and Penelope Ayers: A Memoir. A graduate of Princeton University and Princeton Theological Seminary, she blogs regularly for Patheos at Thin Places. Her essays have appeared in The New York Times, First Things, The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Hartford Courant, The Christian Century, Christianity Today, The Huffington Post, and Parents.com. Amy Julia lives with her husband Peter and three children, Penny, William, and Marilee, in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A Lasting Impression

A Lasting Impression

by Tamera Alexander

Claire Elise Laurent is an art forger, having been forced into a double life by her father and uncle. When her life is put in danger, her father sends her to live in Nashville from their home in New Orleans. When she goes to work for Adelicia Acklen, owner of Belmont Mansion, she crosses paths with Sutton Monroe, an attorney who is investigating art forgeries. What will happen between them when she is found out?

I wanted to like this book, but it moved too slowly for my liking. The characters were interesting to me, and I did find myself caring about what happened between Claire and Sutton, and also what would happen when her forgeries were found out. So I should have liked this more than I did. I tried several times to get into the book, but I never did feel enough emotional investment to keep caring what happened. I feel the story line was a bit too dragged out for my taste.

That being said, I would have to give this book a 3.


About the author:

Tamera Alexander is a bestselling novelist whose works have been awarded or nominated for numerous honors, including the Christy Award, the RITA Award, and the Carol Award. After seventeen years in Colorado, Tamera and her husband have returned to their native South and live in Tennessee, where they enjoy spending time with their two grown children. Visit her website at www.tameraalexander.blogspot.com.







Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Reclaiming Lily

Reclaiming Lily

by Patti Lacy

Dr. Kai Chang discovers that her mother died of polycystic kidney disease (PKD), and dedicates her life to fighting the disease. Because the disease is hereditary, she is determined to track down her sister Lily, the daughter her parents gave up in China years ago.   Once she finds her location with adoptive parents Andrew and Gloria Powell in Texas, she attempts to make contact with them and Lily, now named Joy. The Powells are hesitant and paranoid that she is trying to take Joy away from them. When natural disaster, tragedy, and illness come upon them, suddenly what is most important rises to the surface. 

I loved this book. I really enjoyed all of the characters, and the plot stayed interesting to me until the very last page, and the very last paragraph, with a very surprising turn of events. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading contemporary fiction. 

About the author

Patti Lacy graduated from Baylor University with a BS in education and completed master's-level courses in English at Indiana State University. She taught at Heartland Community College until May 2006, when she resigned to pursue her passion of writing. The author of three previous novels, Patti is the mother of two grown children and lives with her husband in Normal, Illinois. For more about Patti and her other books, visit her website at www.pattilacy.com. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A River to Cross

A River to Cross

by Yvonne Harris

Elizabeth Evans, widow of 3 years, has been kidnapped, and her brother killed by Mexicans trying to start a war with the United States. Texas Ranger Jake Nelson comes to her rescue and vows to protect her no matter what. Both of them are soon drawn to each other, but Elizabeth is hesitant to get involved with another lawman like her husband. Will the attraction between both of them last? Or will Elizabeth continue to shield her heart?

This was an excellent book! From the first chapter, I found myself swept into the dangerous world of Texas Rangers and Mexican renegades. Yvonne Harris created memorable characters in Elizabeth, Jake, Jake's Texas Rangers, and others. 

Not having read any other books by Yvonne Harris before, I wasn't sure what to expect. But I now know to add her to my list of authors to watch. Her first book, Vigilante's Bride, is available here on Amazon. I already have it on my Kindle and plan on reading it soon!

I give this book a 5...it's fast-paced, full of romantic tension and adventure!

Read an excerpt from the book below:

A River to Cross

About the author:

Yvonne Harris earned a BS in Education from the University of Hartford and has taught throughout New England and the mid-Atlantic. Unofficially retired from teaching, she teaches writing at Burlington County College in southern New Jersey, where she resides. She is a winner and three-time finalist for the Golden Heart, once for The Vigilante's Bride, which is her debut novel.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Falls Like Lightning

Falls Like Lightning

by Shawn Grady

Silas Kent is a smoke jumper who doesn't like to stay around one place for long. Elle Westmore is a pilot who flies smoke jumpers into the trenches. The two of them dated years ago, before Elle had her daughter, Maddie. Silas broke up with her to move to Alaska.When they meet up again to tackle a worsening wildfire, sparks fly again...but will they stay together this time?

I have to admit - this was not one of my favorite books. The characters and story had great potential - but to me, both seemed to fall flat. I sensed no chemistry between Silas and Elle, and some elements of the story were confusing and I found myself wondering what had just happened.

It is possible that others would enjoy the story. It seems like one that men, rather than women, would enjoy, due to the rapidly moving storyline and less emphasis on the emotional aspects. I think I would rate this book a 3 out of 5.


Read an excerpt from the book below:

Falls Like Lightning

About the author:

Shawn Grady signed with Bethany House Publishers in 2008.  He was named “Most Promising New Writer” at the 39th Annual Mount Hermon Writers Conference. He is the author of the novels Through the Fire, Tomorrow We Die & Falls Like Lightning.

Shawn has served for over a decade as a firefighter and paramedic in northern Nevada. From fire engines and ambulances to tillered ladder trucks and helicopters, Shawn’s work environment has always been dynamic. The line of duty has carried him to a variety of locale, from high-rise fires in the city to the burning heavy timber of the eastern Sierras.

After graduating from James Logan High School in Union City, California, Shawn attended Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego as a Theology undergrad. There he found clarity of direction and proceeded on to acquire an Associate of Science degree in Fire Science Technology as well as Paramedic licensure through Truckee Meadows Community College in Reno, Nevada.

Shawn currently lives in Reno, just outside of Lake Tahoe. He enjoys spending time in the outdoors with his wife, three children and yellow Labrador.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Another Dawn

Another Dawn

by Kathryn Cushman

Grace Graham goes to Tennessee to help her sister care for their father who is having surgery. Soon after they arrive, Grace's son Dylan becomes sick. She finds out that he may have put the lives of about 6 other children in danger - all because she chose not to have him vaccinated.

As Grace is struggling with guilt over putting other children's lives at risk, she is also dealing with issues of anger towards her father, whose years of smoking led to her mother's death.

She is also still dealing with hurt over the way her relationship with her fiance ended. Will she be able to forgive her father and ex-fiance? And will she be able to forgive herself for decisions she made that put lives at risk?

This book was a bit slow at the beginning, but once I got through the first couple chapters I couldn't put it down! I had heard about the vaccination-autism link before, but didn't know about the different sides to the issue. The book covers both sides of the issue with grace and understanding. I definitely want to read up on this more so I can be more knowledgeable when I have kids of my own. I also liked the way the author wove the forgiveness issue throughout the story. I would recommend this book to anyone who not only loves a good story, but one that touches on current issues of the day.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Paradise Valley

Paradise Valley

by Dale Cramer

I always love a book that not only entertains me, but teaches me something. Whether it's a lesson in history or an occupation I knew little about, I am fascinated with learning about new things. This book didn't disappoint. Before I picked up this book, I had no idea that the Amish had ever settled in Mexico. And if I had known that, I definitely wouldn't have known why they would ever decide to settle there. In 1921, Ohio passed a law that required all children to attend public school 5 days a week. The Amish, wanting to shelter their communities from the influence of the world, school their own children. When it became a requirement to go against this belief, many of the Amish were at a loss as to what they should do.

This book is a fictional account of their settlement in Mexico. It is centered around the lives of the first Amish family, the Benders, to settle in Paradise Valley, Mexico. I enjoyed reading about the Amish and Mexican culture, and the every day trials of the family, including misconceptions about both cultures, and random bandit raids.

This book is the first in a three-part series, and I am very much looking forward to reading the next.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."