“The Sandcastle Inn” by Irene Hannon, book review

“Sandcastle Inn” A Hope Harbor Novel (#10) by Irene Hannon, book review

When Vienna lost her job, she quickly planned a trip to visit her mom. But that short visit, turned into a longer visit, when she lands a volunteer job helping Kay rebrand her newly acquired B&B. Since hotel refab is her job, this short gig made it easy for her to help out a friend, while getting her resume rebuilt.

Matt’s trip to Oregon was supposed to be a time of rest and relaxation while his sister helped a friend following surgery. Running a B&B in Hope Harbor should be easy compared to his current job as a full time vet. But when he arrives and finds the B&B in quite terrible shape, his plans change.

Together, Matt and Vienna tackle the job of rehabing the B&B, so Kay can come home and make a living with the place. But through the tasks needed to rehab, they both heal from past hurts, and explore new beginnings. In addition, they meet friends who help them in various ways.

This is the 10th book in the Hope Harbor series, and several of the characters we met in previous books make appearances, but just short ones almost added in passing. This is a sweet story of hope and healing that comes from letting others carry the heavy burden, and receiving forgiveness from God and others.

I enjoyed the book, it was an easy read. I have read several, but not all, of the Hope Harbor series, and it was easy to pick up with the story and characters.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Revell. All opinions expressed are my own.

“The Lady with the Dark Hair” by Erin Bartels, book review

“The Lady with the Dark Hair” by Erin Bartels, book review

This is a book that has two story lines progressing at the same time, one modern day and one in 1879. Modern day, Esther and her mother claim to be relative of the famous painter Francisco Vella. They even have a small art museum that features his work. But Esther is struggling to keep it all together as her mother has mental illness and does not function well when left alone.

1879 Viviana is orphaned and trying to find her way in the world. As a house maid, she finds herself posing for artists. One of which is the famous Francisco Vella. But quickly her past catches up with her and to stay safe, she agrees to pose as Vella’s sister and travel with him. This arrangement is not ideal, as he has married a woman he does not love, but feels responsible for, but expresses his love for Viviana. Through the trials, Viviana learns to paint and mix colors in quite unique ways.

This dual time story follows two women struggling to make their own way in the world, which does not welcome woman.

I found this story to be discouraging in so many ways; mostly how oppressed women were and still are. However, I am thankful that both women found the inner strength needed to overcome the barriers and succeed in their fields.

This book does contain a character with mental illness who attempts suicide, so if this is a sensitive topic for you, it might be best to select a different book at this time.

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher , Revell. All opinions expressed are my own.

“Never Fall Again” by Lynn H Blackburn, book review

“Never Fall Again” Gossamer Falls #1, book review

For three years, Landry had been the artist in residence at The Haven, where she taught art classes and created her own art. It was so rewarding to be in this safe place, surrounded by nature and having friends nearby. Now, she is ready to settle permanently and hires a contractor to build her home. But it all changed when Landry’s pottery business is destroyed! Her house plans are put on hold while the shop is rebuilt.

Callum has joined the family business in Gossamer Falls as a contractor and is a vital part of his family and community. As an ex-Marine, he assists the police chief as needed, and serves in his community. He had his heart broken by a woman he dated, when she ran off with another many while he was deployed, so he has decided to not give his heart away again. Until he meets Landry and her daughter.

This is a story rich with family drama, crime and interpersonal relationships. I enjoyed the characters and the plot, which kept me guessing “who done it” until the end. Throughout the story, there are descriptions of domestic violence, so if this is a topic that you want to avoid, I suggest you select another book. However, I am pleased that there was healing for the victim revealed in this book. I look forward to #2 in the series.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Revell. All opinions expressed are my own.

“Embers in the London Sky” by Sarah Sundin, book review

“Embers in the London Sky” by Sarah Sundin, book review

Germany 1940

Aleida knew she had to get away from her abusive and controlling husband. After weeks of planning and plotting, this was the day. As soon as he left the house, she and Theo were leaving too, forever. But the Germans and the war caught up with the family, and her plans were foiled. As a family, they left the house and joined the mad rush to the border. During this escape, her husband was accidentally killed, but not before he took Theo and gave him to a passing couple. Theo had always been an embarrassment to him due to a birth defect of his hand.

Aleida is heartbroken to be separated from her son, so she vows to find him. In this quest, she is offered a job with the London department investigating immigrating children. She never stops looking for Theo.

Hugh is a BBC correspondent covering the war, and he has made quite the name for himself as he shares stories many others are unwilling to share, the truth. On assignment, he meets Aleida, and after learning her story, starts to aid in her search. Together, they become friends and later, more, but always on the search for Theo.

This is an interesting story about WWII and some of the details that are often overlooked in the larger stories of the war. So many families were affected in various ways. I enjoyed the story, but felt the desperation in Aleida’s search for her son, especially when she felt no one would help her.

This story does include specific references to domestic violence, so if this is a sensitive topic for you, perhaps select a different book to read.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Revell. All opinions expressed are my own.

“A Baby in Alaska” by Heidi McCahan, book review

“A Baby in Alaska” by Heidi McCahan, book review

Sam has had this Alaska trip planned ever since he was asked to be best man in the wedding. But now the trip is a bit more complicated, as he has to take Silas and all the baby equipment. Dealing with the grief from the death of his brother and sister-in-law is overwhelming. But now, Sam has to learn how to care for his nephew. 

Rylee has her dream job, pilot in Alaska. But now the owners of the company are retiring and she fears for her job. Maybe if she can make a good impression on the new owner, she can keep her job. So when Sam arrives, she puts on her best smile and is ready to impress him. She is surprised that he has a baby in tow, but with the help of her family, they make Sam and Silas welcome in Alaska.

This is a sweet story of a successful business man who is honoring his family obligations and work obligations at the same time. He quickly learns that raising a child is not a solo endeavor and the help of others when freely given is well received. The author develops the characters well, and they are likable. The story flows and kept my attention, making me want to keep reading when I should have put the book down to take care of chores. While the ending was a bit predictable, the story had some twists and turns that were unexpected. Overall, great read!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.

“The Divine Proverb of Streusel” by Sara Brunsvold, book review

“The Divine Proverb of Streusel” by Sara Brusvold, book review

Nikki’s whole world is falling apart. Her parents divorce. Then she is notified by social media that her dad has married again. School is over for the summer and she decided to just “get out of Dodge.” Without really meaning to, she drives to her uncle’s farm. This is a place that holds happy childhood memories of holidays with the family. While quite surprised, her uncle welcomes her into his home and they spend the summer together remodeling the old farm house. It is a project that they both use to fill the time and get to know themselves.

Nikki discovers some old German books and journals. One is a cookbook with personal notes written for each recipe. During the weeks, she works through the recipes and learns from the words of wisdom written by her great-grandmother. As the summer progresses, Nikki begins to heal and learn about forgiveness.

This is an interesting modern story of how complicated families can be. I enjoyed the story and how well the characters were developed. However, if divorce is a sensitive topic for you, this might not be the book to read right now.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Revell. All opinions expressed are my own.

The Warsaw Sisters, by Amanda Barratt, book review

The Warsaw Sisters, by Amanda Barratt, book review

1939 Sisters Helena and Antonina are living in Warsaw as what we now know as WWII begins. Their father leaves to defend Poland, and then the bombs begin to fall. This is a very detailed and tragic story of life in Poland during the occupation and war. Both sisters fight for their country in different ways.

Antonina realizes the plight of the Jews and becomes involved in sheltering escaping Jews, especially children. Helena joins secret Polish army and fights for freedom. Neither sister wants to endanger the other, so they keep their activities secret from the other. But these secrets bring division between the sisters during a very terrible and frightening time.

In the end, they are reunited and join together to rejoice in having lived through the war, although there is so much time and love that was lost during this tragic time.

The book was interesting, and I learned a lot about Polish history and the plight of the people during the occupation of Germany. I was saddened by all the loss. I was encouraged by the bravery shows by so many in the face of such dire consequences.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Revell. All opinions expressed are my own.

“Shadows at Dusk” book review

“Shadows at Dusk” by Elizabeth Goddard, Missing in Alaska #2, book review

Carrie has been flying small planes in Alaska for over 10 years and she knows she makes a difference in many folks’ lives by delivering mail, groceries and medicine. But that seems to be in jeopardy now that has to manage the business alone, following the tragic murder of her partner. Today, however, she can make a difference in one person’s life, Trevor. Montana detective Trevor West is on an all out search for his sister, Jennifer, who has been missing for a year. Recently he obtained photos she left for him in a safety deposit box. But he needs a local to help him. Carrie has been highly recommended, so she is is first option.

Carrie and Trevor head out to visit the locations of Jennifer’s photos. But with each stop, they encounter sketchy folks who appear to be following them. Together, they determine to solve both mysteries- Jennifer’s location and the killer of Carrie’s best friend.

This is an adventure book with lots of action, some shooting and a couple of murders. In the end, good wins out and Carrie is able to find closure in her life.

This is the second book in the Missing in Alaska series. While I have read the first book, this book does stand alone pretty well.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Revell. All opinions expressed are my own.

“Against the wind” by Amanda Cabot, book review

“Against the Wind” by Amanda Cabot, Secrets of Sweetwater Crossing #2, book review

When Louisa left Sweetwater Crossing, it was for good, never to return. And how she is on her way back. But this is just a short visit with a friend to attend a funeral. But when she discovers an injured man on the side of the road, she has to render aid. That starts a chain of events that she had not anticipated.

Now she is must stay until his leg cast can be removed. During her time, she has reconciled with her sister and found the love of a family that she thought was forever gone. Maybe she can stay…

Josh is determined to win the challenge developed by his grandfather that will award him sole control of the family business. But when he is injured and loses not only his horse, but all his valuable papers, he is unsure of how to proceed. Without the recipes he has gathered during his travels across the US, he cannot win the competition and will lose the business. After being in Sweetwater Crossing these weeks while his leg heals, he begins to wonder if he really wants the business and to return to the city.

This is the second in the SweetWater Crossing series, and while I had read book #1, I still had a bit of a time remembering the characters and happenings of the first book. But as the story went on, the author gave me enough hints that I could enjoy this story. I do recommend that you read #1 first, as this book does not stand alone. Overall, I enjoyed the story and liked the characters and plot development. I look forward to #3 which I suspect will be about the 3rd sister who has been traveling overseas.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Revell. All opinions expressed are my own.

“On Moonberry Lake” by Holly Varni, book review

“On Moonberry Lake” by Holly Varni, book review

Cora’s life has gone from sad to sadder. Her mother died and she broke off her engagement at about the same time. Now, she has to deal with her mother’s estate and it includes a very strange condition. Cora has inherited the Moonberry Lodge. She has fond memories of visiting her grandparents at the lodge, but there are not recent memories, as her mother refused to visit. Now Cora is informed that to receive her inheritance, she must live in the lodge for 1 year. Since the rest of her life has recently sorta imploded, she decides to just move to the lodge for a year.

She is quickly surrounded by carry friends and neighbors who help with the renovations. After a while, Cora can see the potential. As she nears the completion of the lodge renovations, a tornado hits the area and seriously damages the lodge. What to do now?

This is a book of learning about secrets kept and secrets revealed, and the implications of both. This was an easy book to read with characters that express deep hurt and emotions.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Revell. All opinions expressed are my own.