What I am Reading this Winter Break

It's the first official week of winter break and I am so pumped for five weeks of blissful reading and getting back to writing some reviews for you guys! 

Tomorrow is Christmas and I hope everyone is having a wonderful Christmas season with their families and loved ones. Also, I hope you all are given an abundance of books too ;)

For this blog post I thought I would just showcase some books that I am or are going to be reviewing in the next coming weeks.

Winter Break's Reading Selection
Burning Sky: A Novel of the American Frontier by Lori Benton ...currently reading...review coming soon
The Headmistress of Rosemere (Whispers On The Moors) by Sarah E. Ladd
Match Made in Texas: A Novella Collection by Witemeyer, Cox, Carol and Connealy
A Miracle of Hope by Ruth Reid
Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell
The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan ...currently reading
Plus, the 45 books on my kindle that I have collected over the year when they are on amazing deals and I can't resist the need to purchase... 

I am super super super excited to start reading! What are some books you are looking forward to reading during this winter break? Let me know your thoughts below! I can always use more suggestions for my reading list!

Have a terrific Christmas! God Bless you~!

For His Kingdom, 
Taylor Reid 

The Governess of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky

Do not be fooled by the governess meets nobleman synopsis of Turansky's newest novel. Yes, this concept is a familiar one to fiction set in the early 20th century, but Turansky adds just the right amount of original details to this story to make this book one of a kind. 

What's it About

Julia Foster must leave India - their home for twelve years as missionaries - for England due to her father's illness. In order to help her parents' financially Julia takes up upon herself to become the governess of Highland Hall. She quickly learns that teaching her four privileged, ill-mannered charges proves to be more challenging than she thought, and she is at odds with what to do with the master of the estate, Sir William Ramsey. 

Widowed and left to care for his two children and his two teenage cousins, William is burdened with saving the estate from financial ruin. The last thing he needs is any distraction coming from the kindhearted-yet-determined governess who seems to be quietly transforming his household with her persuasive personality, vibrant prayer life, and strong faith.

While both are tending past wounds and guarding fragile secrets, Julia and William are determined to do what it takes to save their families—common ground that proves fertile for unexpected feelings. But will William choose Julia’s steadfast heart and faith over the wealth and power he needs to secure Highland Hall’s future? (Goodreads Summary) 

My Thoughts 

This novel serves well for those who enjoy English period fiction. The customs, the language, the fashion, the romance, everything is top notch and English period fiction approved! I have many read reviews about this book claiming that it's  perfect for fans of Downtown Abbey because of it's Downtown Abbey feel. I have never watched the show (yes I've been living under a rock), but after looking into it after reading this book I would like to echo that remark. It's simply a devine and delightful read that you need to keep your eyes out for this season!

Turansky does not stop her readers from experiencing Highland Hall through the eyes of Julia and William, but also through the rest of the staff and other minor characters that live on the estate. I found it refreshing and enlightening  to not be limited to two main characters to carry on the story. With all of the people on the estate I would expect and want nothing else but to see Highland through a different lens and status of life. I truly love and appreciate that Turansky took her book that far into detail.

The dynamics between the upstairs and downstairs lives of the characters with their secrets and schemes made this book an "edge of your seat" kind of read. There is nothing more that I could want from this book than to read more about the characters! Turansky has written a captivating read with just the right amount of romance to keep your heart warm this winter! Turansky has put herself on my "Favorite Authors" list and I am looking forward to her next book that will continue on this series!

Rating: 5 out of 5 bookshelves
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Highly, highly recommend to read and to give as a gift this holiday season to your book-obsessed loved ones! 

Link to the Author's Website: http://carrieturansky.com/
Link to Book Trailer:  The Governess of Highland Hall Trailer
Purchase Links: Barnes and Noble  Amazon Christian Book

Happy Reading everyone! 

For His Kingdom, 
Taylor Reid

Stones for Bread KitchenAid Mixer Giveaway from Christa Parrish! Pin It & Win It!

Christa Parrish is celebrating her fourth novel, Stones for Bread, with a KitchenAid Mixer giveaway.

Easy steps to enter:

1. Follow Christa Parrish and TNZ Fiction on Pinterest.

2. Then Pin the Stones for Bread book cover (below), the contest graphic (above), or both, and link to this post (using this URL: #StonesforBread KitchenAid Mixer Contest #ChristaParrish http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/stones-for-bread-by-christa-parrish).

3. Then fill out THIS SHORT FORM to let us know. (There are also some additional ways to earn extra entries, as well as an option for non-Pinterest users. It's true—people like that do exist!)

Questions? Email info @ litfusegroup dot com.

Winner will be announced on 12/9 on Christa's Facebook Page.

Litfuse Blog Tour Event: Stones for Bread by Christa Parrish

Stones for Bread will make you feel like you just took a bite out of a warm delicious piece of bread. It will fill you up and consume you with it's unique and charming story of a young woman whose passion for bread takes her farther than she ever imagined--or wanted. 

Goodreads Summary
What do you do when the gift you thought was bread turns out to be stones?Liesl McNamara’s Wild Rise is not only a popular bakehouse and café in Vermont, it’s an extension of herself. Liesl is an artisan bread maker, like her mother and grandmother before her. Even though she lost her mother to suicide when she was eleven, she keeps this maternal bond alive as she bakes. Liesl prides herself on living an uncomplicated, unattached life. But that changes when Seamus walks through the door of Wild Rise, lugging the large bags of whole wheat flour from the local food co-op. 

He and his daughter Cecelia have recently moved to the country seeking simplicity. Despite her best effort, Liesl becomes attracted to this teddy bear of a man who laughs easily and eats strange sandwich concoctions—on her bread, much to her dismay.
 
Her simple life is further complicated when a popular cooking show features her bakery. The publicity increases her business and brings several offers from larger businesses, all of which she turns down. But it also brings a completely unexpected phone call, one from a woman claiming to be her half-sister.
 
Liesl’s sense of identity dissolves as everything about her relationship with her mother—and the bread that held them together—comes into question. Has she been given stones rather than bread? And how can she ever take these crumbs and make them whole again?

My Thoughts

This book was a lot of firsts for me as a reader. To be honest I was so busy with school with transferring, work, and personal things that I was not in the reading mood. This is why this review is late! But one day I just decided to just try and read it, and I am so happy that I did. This book slowed everything down around me and from there I was captivated by this magnificent and truly endearing story that had captured my heart.

I don't usually highlight when I read a book especially when it's fiction. This book though had too many great passages that I could not not highlight or underline. 

There is so much strength and raw honesty from Liesl. She is a woman who has this connection to bread that is inspirational. She goes through a lot of uncomfortable situations in this book. First learning she'll be on t.v. for a bake-off show, than to being famous, to finding out she was adopted and so on and so on. Oh, and she is falling in love with an adorable and kind man and his daughter and trying to find out how that can work. It's all so common and yet not-- all of the things that she are placed in her path. All she wanted was peace and to go on her normal path. 

I can relate to that even now more than before reading this. 

From Liesl's POV, to her flashbacks as a child dealing with self harm, to her delicious bread recipes scattered throughout the book and also a look into bread through a biblical POV this book was overloading with genius and allure. You just want more because you never want it to stop. I loved every bite of this book. 

Liesl's story will take you through the hardest struggle of her life which is her identity. For everyone who has ever doubted their purpose and connection to someone or something will empathize and relate to this. 

The author tells us by the end of the book the meaning of the book. I just adore when authors do this! Don't you? 

Rating: 5 out 5 bookshelves 

Disclaimer: I received a free copy for an honest review from Litfuse Publicity Group.

Purchase a copy 
Learn more about the author 
Litfuse Giveaway Ends 12/7

For His Kingdom, 
Taylor Reid 

"Beloved" Winner Announcement!!!!

Wow this is my second giveaway and it's so amazing to see the great community online that love some good ol' Christian fiction! So encouraging!

I loved reading every single one of the responses. It was so touching and beautiful to read that everyone had a common love which was Jesus. Seriously ladies that is so beautiful it made my day!
 Now to get to the main event and what you have been waiting for! The winner(s)!!!!

The winners are Amanda and Patty!!! 

Congrats ladies! I have contacted you via my g-mail account so check you inboxes for the next step to get your copies! 

Thank you again everyone this online community rocks! Have a blessed week! 

Stay tuned for more giveaways in the future ;) 

For His Kingdom, 
Taylor Reid    

Favorite Austen Moments KINDLE HDX Giveaway, Pinterest Contest and Facebook Party!

Debut author Katherine Reay is celebrating the release of her delightful novel, Dear Mr. Knightley with a Kindle Fire HDX giveaway, a fun Favorite Austen Moments Pinterest contest, and an Austen-themed Facebook Party.

  One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire HDX
• Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay
• Handmade Austen-themed items (scarf, mug, bracelet, and necklace) 

Two ways to win! Enter today by clicking one of the icons below or participating in the Pinterest contest (see banner below)—or BOTH! 

But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 3rd. Winner will be announced at the "Dear Mr. Knightley" Austen-themed Facebook Author Chat Party on the 3rd. Join Katherine (and Austen fans) for an evening of book chat, prizes, and an exclusive look at Katherine's next book.

So grab your copy of  Dear Mr. Knightley and join Katherine on the evening of December 3rd for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN at the event page. Spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway and party via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, or PINTEREST. Hope to see you on the 3rd!

Litfuse Blog Tour Event: Dear Mr. Knightly by Katherine Reay

I am over the moon that I got the opportunity to review this marvelous debut novel by the igneous Katherine Reay! If this book is not on your "To Be Read" list it needs to be A.S.A.P.
 
Goodreads

Dear Mr. Knightley is a contemporary epistolary novel with a delightful dash of Jane Austen.
 
Samantha Moore survived years of darkness in the foster care system by hiding behind her favorite characters in literature, even adopting their very words. Her fictional friends give her an identity, albeit a borrowed one. But most importantly, they protect her from revealing her true self and encountering more pain.
 
After college, Samantha receives an extraordinary opportunity. The anonymous “Mr. Knightley” offers her a full scholarship to earn her graduate degree at the prestigious Medill School of Journalism. The sole condition is that Sam write to Mr. Knightley regularly to keep him apprised of her progress.
 
As Sam’s true identity begins to reveal itself through her letters, her heart begins to soften to those around her—a damaged teenager and fellow inhabitant of Grace House, her classmates at Medill, and, most powerfully, successful novelist Alex Powell. But just as Sam finally begins to trust, she learns that Alex has secrets of his own—secrets that, for better or for worse, make it impossible for Sam to hide behind either her characters or her letters.

My Thoughts

Reay wrote a truly whimsical novel that is unique in all in its own. Why do I think that?

The reasons being: 

1. The novel's female lead is in college (master's program). As a college student myself I am always looking for Christian fiction set in some sort of college aspect. 

2. The romance takes place through letters first. You have to read to find out. 

3. The female lead is also not a strong Christian and she goes through the self-doubt of God probably doesn't care about her. It's refreshing I feel to read books of Christians and or people figuring God out to wrestle with these tough circumstances. It's never easy but it is common. Personally, I have came to like when it's conveyed in novels.

4. The main character is a runner and forms her first genuine friendship through running. I thought that was unique and a nice touch! 

I just love the way this book was written. The voice was real, honest, and hilarious. I loved Sam to be honest. At times I felt I knew Sam all to well. I related with her on so many levels. Being a bookaholic I feel at times I would rather read a book than converse with people! Ha! All truth being set aside Sam is just a overall strong character. Being in the foster care with numerous families has taken a toll on her with people relationships. But through the love of God being shown through the many people being put into her life she is able to overcome her limitations. 

The romance in this book is not in your face. Which I still liked. Alex and Sam together I thought were like peanut butter and jelly. They complemented each other so well. Both loving books and would have quote-offs. Some people might think that is so-so but my book lover's heart melted. These two were well developed and not just your cookie-cutter girl meets boy, boy meets girl, happy ending. No. They had issues. You could tell. Yet, they were able to be hones with one another. 

As I said before I loved, loved, loved, loved, the way this book was written. I loved all the characters. Even the side characters. There was not one 1-sided character. The writing was so splendid that I felt like I was actually there with Sam as she was having coffee with Alex in Barnes and Noble, or when she was running during the Chicago Marathon (by the way I knew how she felt being that I just recently finished my first half-marathon, half or full having the word marathon guarantees some pain). 

This book blew me away! It was something I never expected!


If you want a book that could spice up your Christian romance drought. Try this book out. I would seriously even recommend this book to people who aren't Christians. It's seriously that diverse. It's spectacular and I know during winter break I will most likely reread the book out of this book! 

I already feel that Katherine Reay is the type of author that will make us impatiently wait and yearn to the next novel! I know I already am!

As you can tell this is a special book to me! Ha! What is a special book to you? For Sam is was anything Jane Austin! 

Rating: 5 out 5 bookshelves 

Disclaimer: I received a free copy for an honest review from Litfuse Publicity Group.

Purchase a copy 
Learn more about the author

For His Kingdom, 
Taylor Reid  

Litfuse Blog Tour Event: To Know You by Shannon Ethride and Kathryn Mackel

To Know You is a beautifully woven novel that challenges its readers as the believers and non-believer characters are  challenged in face in the most intense and trying ways.  

Goodreads 

Years ago, Julia Whittaker gave up two daughters for adoption. Now she must find them to try to save the life of her son.
 
Julia and Matt Whittaker’s son was diagnosed with biliary atresia at birth. Dillon has beaten the odds for thirteen years only to have the odds—and his liver—crash precipitously. The only hope for his survival is a transplant. He can receive a “living liver” transplant but neither his parents, nor various family members and friends, are compatible.
 
The transplant list is long and Dillon’s time is short. Very short.
He has two chances for a compatible liver: his two older half-sisters, born eighteen months apart and adopted at birth.
 
But can Julia ask a young woman—someone she surrendered to strangers—to donate a portion of her body to a brother she’s never known? Will either sister even be a match for their half-brother? 

Will either of them show mercy and courage if they are?
 
Julia knows she’s probably on a fool’s errand—reaching out to the daughters she abandoned only now that she needs them. But what other choice does she have except to try. 

My Thoughts 

This book caught me off guard. It was incredibly extreme on multiple levels of discomfort and emotions that I had to take a step back and take a breathe. I was gripped with these characters and their struggles that were all too unique and heartbreaking. I could not stop crying. I could not help by relate. I could not stop reading. This book explores the depths of love and sacrifice in family and how our decisions can affect others around us and not just ourselves.

Ethride and Mackel outdid themselves when they wrote this book. This is not a common story where bio-mom comes and tries to rebuild bridges with the two daughters she gave up for adoption years ago. 

Nope. 

Julia is a woman on her knees who knows that what she is asking of the two young women is completely outrageous. Her son needs a liver and his two half sisters might be the answer to Julia and her husband's fourteen years of prayer. 

The depth of this book is so much more than I could hope to describe on this post. The characters are human. Their sin is ugly. But isn't that the truth of all sin? Not one character is "normal". They're all messed up and complicated and feel unworthy of God. This is real life though. Real life is messy, human and ugly.  

The ending completed this book in a full circle of redemption and forgiveness. The characters will surprise you in their decisions when it comes to the end of this book.

The writing was perfect and I can not wait for the next book in this series to see the development of more of the characters that were just touched on the surface in  Veil of Secrets which will be available July 2014. 

Rating: 5 out of 5 bookshelves 
Disclaimer: I received a free copy for an honest review from Litfuse Publicity Group.
 
 I recommend though that you check out the first novel before so you know exactly what you are getting yourself into! Here is a link to the amazon page for purchase.

To learn more about the authors here are two links to Shannon Ehtide and Kathryn Mackel's websites. Great websites with a lot of info about their other ministries and books.

Litfuse Giveaway Alert! 11/19 

To Know You is Shannon’s debut fiction release, and she’s celebrating by giving away a $100 gift certificate to Lisa Leonard Designs and a personal coaching session, as well as throwing a Facebook Author Chat Party. 

Link to the page for more details! Enter in before it's too late!  

For His Kingdom, 
Taylor Reid   

Litfuse Blog Tour Event: Snow on the Tulips by Liz Tolsma

Snow on the Tulips is a raw emotion filled story that will grip its readers from beginning to end. 

Goodreads 

In a time of unprecedented darkness and fear, Cornelia must decide if saving a stranger’s life is worth risking her own.

In the twilight of the Nazi occupation of The Netherlands, the Germans have taken everything Cornelia had to give, even what was most precious to her. Now Gerrit Laninga—a man who puts God and country above all else—arrives at her house, needing help. She is terrified for herself and terrified for her family, but most of all, terrified of the pain she might feel again if she allows herself to love Gerrit. Her hope is to be free from her paralyzing fear.

Gerrit is a known and hunted Dutch Resistance member. When he comes to Cornelia’s home for shelter, he’s drawn to her strength and kindness. When he asks her to contact the local Resistance on his behalf, she refuses. Gerrit is determined to find a way to continue his underground work without putting Cornelia or her family in harm’s way.

When things start to unravel and Gerrit’s life depends on her actions, she must summon her courage and learn to depend on the perfect love that drives out all fear. But will her new love be snatched away before it has a chance to bloom? 

My Thoughts 

First off, if you are not a regular reader on my blog you won't know it but I am captivated by the front and back cover designs on books. 

As a reader I 100% believe that "yes, you can't judge a book by it's cover." But, I love love love love beautiful covers. It completely shows the thought and detail that went into its creation. I don't want to knock down any books that don't have beautiful or obsessive covers, but it just always makes reading a little more fun in public because it catches peoples eyes and brings up conversation. So yes I love this cover. I love the little windmill in the background, I love the flower design, the woman and the plane. It showcases so much! Beautiful cover!!!  

5 out 5 just on the cover alone!

The rest of the novel is just as well thought out as the cover. Tolsma gives her readers a riveting read and does not shy away from the hard stuff. This is the Netherlands during Nazi occupation after all -- which means that there was no easy life style in any way for those living during this time. 

It should be said that this book is not for the light of heart. It is not entirely gruesome or depressing, but as I stated before Tolsma does not shy away from the truth in her story. There were hardships. Many lost loved ones. However, if anything, through these trials and the grief the people kept trudging onward in hopes of freedom for themselves, their families and for their country. 

This was a beautiful book. I really admired that Tolsma placed her setting in a place that isn't written about much. Plus, who could think that romance could bloom in such a gloomy place? Well it can and I believe that it gave the book the sort of much needed lightness for the reader. The romance centered around two people who knew they might not get another day together. I honestly always looked forward to Cornelia and Gerrit coming together in a scene. They could be a comedian duo at times! I loved Gerrit's bashfulness and Cornelia's strength.

Speaking of strength there was so much courage and faith in this book. Puts into perspective the deep un-doubtful faith that these people had. Along with the courage and passion to fight for freedom, put one's own life in danger in order to get food stamps secretly to starving families, or even hide people in their walls is speechless. I guess what makes it even more speechless is that the people actually did these type of courageous deeds. 

I strongly recommend that if you are looking for a new book that this is one book that you look into! It's fantastic~!

Rating: 5 out of 5 bookshelves
Disclaimer: I received a free copy for an honest review from Litfuse Publicity Group.

Purchase a copy here  

Learn more about Liz Tolsma

Litfuse Blog Tour Event: Beloved (Where the Heart Lives #3) by Robin Lee Hatcher

Does my hint from my previous post make sense now? *Beloved author* Ha! I thought I was quite witty, maybe it was just me! But yes there will be info about a giveaway of two copies to two lucky individuals! So stay tuned to the end of this review and find out what you need to do...

Robin Lee Hatcher is at it again! Capturing her reader's hearts with a story of endearing love, growing relationships and the path towards healing for past mistakes.

 Goodreads Summary:
Diana Brennan came west on the orphan train and was given a home with a loving couple who cherished and spoiled her. At 17, she fell hard for Tyson Applegate, the son of a wealthy mine owner. After a whirlwind courtship and marriage, Tyson took off for adventures around the world, including fighting with the Rough Riders in Cuba. Receiving no word of him for seven years, Diana's infatuation with her dashing husband died an ugly death, and she is ready to move past the old pain and marry again, just as soon as Tyson is declared legally dead.

But when her husband returns, supposedly a changed man, he wants to reunite with his wife and run for the senate. While Diana suspects the election is his real reason for wanting her by his side, she agrees to maintain his home and to campaign with him, but when it is over, win or lose, she wants her freedom. He agrees with one condition----she must give him a chance to change her mind about him.

My Thoughts:
I have always fancied  Hatcher's stories. Her characters have always felt real to me. They just come off with this sense of honesty that I find different from other stories. 

This story was a gratifying read. It kept me company on the bus to my community college and on the bench waiting for the bus to get home. I found this book to be a very easy fast read. I read it in under two days and only on the bus. (Fact: all readers read at different paces!) But the fact of the matter was that I overall beloved this book - ha, did I use that word correctly? This story showed growth in its characters personalities, emotions and relationships. 
  
There was also interesting points in the book where it would go back into the past which would explain to the reader why one character was acting a certain way or why he or she had certain feelings (good or bad) towards another character. It was definitely different at first, mainly because I would have to go back and remind myself the years of the present time. It's not that hard to get use to, just at first I was a little hesitant.  

Diana is a firm woman with qualities anyone would admire. She freely gives her love to others even with the hurt she had experienced. I felt Hatcher did splendidly at helping me (the reader) come to understand why Diana wouldn't be over the moon that Tyson (he dead husband) was alive. There was a lot of development shown in both Diana and Tyson through their actions that helped them get over the hurdle that was preventing them from having a loving and redeeming marriage. 

I felt this book was a feel good book. Something to help pass time and pass on to others to read as well. 

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 bookshelves 
Disclaimer: I received a free copy for an honest review from Litfuse Publicity Group.

Speaking of Litfuse they are hosting a fantastic giveaway which involves an IPad Mini! Here is the link to the page or you can also click on the beautiful button on the right hand top corner of this page! Check it out because there are even more fantastic prizes you will not want to miss out on entering in a chance to win!

GIVEAWAY INFO TIME~!!!  Contest ENDS: November 16, 2013 at midnight
  
Contest time here we go! Disclaimer: still figuring this stuff out so I am so super appreciative for your patience! For this time I'm just going to ask a question instead of using the rafflecopter! I learned that not all people have Google+ and couldn't enter the last contest. I wanted to make this more accessible for others to have a chance to win! Please make sure to leave an e-mail address and or some way to get in contact with you with your comment. Books can only be sent to addresses in the United States and or Canada.

Here is the question: What or who is your most beloved? 

Maybe it's a necklace from a loved one or your dog or maybe just quite time with the Lord. It can be anything! There are no wrong answers! Looking forward to those responses!  

For His Kingdom, 
Taylor Reid  

My First Giveaway Winner Annoucement!!!!!

Attention: I have some more exciting news about a future giveaway! That will be at the end so read all the way through! ;)

First off I want to thank everyone so much for all of the positive feedback I received after putting a little link to this giveaway on Facebook! I was blown away and extremely grateful that someone would take the time to read my review, answer my question, and even those who shared my post! It has been an amazing ride with you guys!

Secondly, I would also like to thank those of you who signed on to follow my blog. That made my day, seriously, from the bottom of my heart thank you!

I loved all of the answers I received from all the entries! I now have a little list of a few songs I have never heard. Super pumped to start listening to them!

Now what you have been waiting for! The winner!

(I am so nervous haha!)

And the winner is: Laura Pol!

Congrats! I have contacted you via Facebook! ;) 

MORE NEWS! 

After the amazing turn out I had I want to do another giveaway and continue the blessings! It so happens that Litfuse accidentally sent me an extra copy of another book I reviewed! Deja vu right? So to make the second giveaway even more terrific than the first one I will be giving away both copies! That means there will be two winners! TWICE THE CHANCES!

The two copies are of a new book by a *hint* beloved *hint* author of mine. I will be posting about the details soon once I finish writing my review and post it here on my blog! So be on the look out!

For His Kingdom,
Taylor Reid

Litfuse Blog Tour Event: Gunpowder Tea (The Brides of Last Chance Ranch #3 ) by Margaret Brownley

Would you like a cup of gunpowder tea? I promise you its divine!

Margaret Brownley's Gunpowder Tea hits off with a bang! Brownley effortlessly grabbed my attention by the end of Chapter One.

Goodreads Summary

In a case that could change her career, Miranda uncovers a love that will change her life.When Miranda Hunt sees the classified ad for an heiress to the legendary Last Chance Ranch, she knows assuming the identity of Annie Beckman is the perfect cover. As one of the finest agents for the Pinkerton Detective Agency, Miranda has been tasked with apprehending the Phantom – an elusive and notorious train robber thought to be hiding on the sprawling ranch.

But she isn’t the only one there with something to hide. Wells Fargo detective Jeremy Taggert is working the scene undercover as well. And although their true identities are a secret, it is impossible for Jeremy and Miranda to hide the spark that flares between them. But neither is about to let romance interfere with such a huge case. Besides, Miranda hasn’t removed Jeremy from her list of suspects yet. The closer they come to uncovering the identity of the Phantom, the more dangerous he gets – and no one on the ranch is safe.

But neither are their hearts – the longer Miranda and Jeremy spends working together, the harder it becomes to keep their feelings in check. Their careers – and their lives – depend on solving this case. Love will have to wait. 

My Thoughts 

This was on my "To Be Read" list for a while, and when I got a copy I was really excited. 

For some reason I got the idea in my head that I had to read this book.

I think it had a lot to do with the cover. Covers can tell so much and sometimes nothing at all. I absolutely love covers that give a glimpse into the story while giving almost nothing away. It's so much fun to read and find out! Seriously, just take a gander at this fantastic cover. There is a man giving a sideways glance to the woman who is serving him tea. Oh, and that same woman is holding a gun behind her back with a smile on her face. Slap on top of that a title such as  "GUNPOWDER TEA" and the only thought going through my head is, "I have to read this book and find what is going on! ASAP!" 

I was not disappointed to say the least. Actually I was pleasantly surprised by almost every little thing. Trust me by the time you get halfway through this book you will understand the title. (Unless of course you are well associated with tea and its history.) On the other hand you will most likely be surprised as was I.

Gunpowder Tea's heroine Miranda was a strong lead that I really liked. She was out in the world accomplishing what she loved and she was actually good at it too. I loved her softer side and her special quirks. Also, her relationship that bloomed with Jeremy was at times hilarious and precious.

FYI: This book can be read as a stand alone! Yay!

Brownley has crafted a truly enjoyable read from beginning to end with a mixture of mystery, romance, and women powerfully wielding guns! What more can a reader ask for? You'll be on pins and needles wondering who and how close the mysterious Phantom is to the legendary Last Chance Ranch. 

A must read and addition to your ever growing "To Be Read" list! 

Rating: 4 out of 5 bookshelves
Disclaimer: I received a free copy for an honest review from Litfuse Publicity Group.

Attention:  Over at the wonderful Litfuse website this book is being showcased and they're giving a KINDLE FIRE~  Sound pretty awesome right? All you have to do is go to this link and follow from there! There will also be a button in the side bar as well!

Happy Reading Everyone~ 

For His Kingdom, 
Taylor Reid

Litfuse Blog Tour Event: Glittering Promises (Grand Tour Series #3) by Lisa T. Bergren

Glittering Promises by Lisa T. Bergren is a sensational conclusion to the Grand Tour Series. Lisa's writing shines (or one could say glitters) in her final installment. Readers are given one last chance to revisit old characters for a proper farewell.

Goodreads Summary

Cora Kensington journeys farther into Italy, wrestles with a terrible ultimatum from her father, and comes to terms with the Father who will never fail her.

America’s newest heiress must decide if her potential fortune is rationale enough to give up her freedom and all that God is leading her toward. And when her newly-discovered siblings are threatened with ruin, her quandary deepens. Then as Cora nears Rome, more journalists are track the news story of the decade—“Copper Cora,” the rags-to-riches girl—and want to know more about her family and the men vying for her attention. Meanwhile, a charming Italian countess decides that if Cora isn’t going to claim Will’s heart, she might just try...

My Thoughts
I have been a fan of Bergren's writing way back when I read her other trilogy The River of Time Series. After reading the first book of the Grand Tour Series I was excited to see where Bergren was going to take her readers. There were a lot of qualities I liked about this book and then there were a few parts I skimmed. Only because I wanted these two certain characters to be honest with one another -- but I blame that partly because of my impatience. Sometimes when I -- as the reader -- know more than the characters it kills me. Haha!

However, this was a satisfying conclusion to Cora's growth into her new identity as a woman, sister and daughter. I really enjoyed getting to see her relationship with her siblings grow and become more intimate. It demonstrated that despite the truth of one's birth, family is family. And you should love your family.  Always. Even if it's hard! I also enjoyed to see her wrestle with deciding Who defines her as a human being. With all that money and people telling you who you are can be confusing. Cora, I felt was relatable at that point in the book.

Bergren's attention to detail is extravagant. Even though I have never been to Italy, Bergren convinced me through her writing that I was in Italy. Love that descriptive writing!

Romance-wise, this book gives and takes. So light-hearted be warned! I don't know if this is spoilerish, but Cora and Will have a few falling outs. But they get resolved -- eventually. Still, to be fair, Cora and Will go over a lot of issues that I'm sure that couples go through all the time. I understand that not all relationships are perfect, but for me being a hopeless romantic, it's always hard for me to accept!

Rating: 4 out of 5 bookshelves
Disclaimer: I received a free copy for an honest review from Litfuse Publicity Group.

News: If you are a book behind in this series, currently, the second book Grave Consequences is free for a limited time for the Kindle. So I suggest picking that one up and Glittering Promises together. Fills up your kindle with two books for the price of one! 

Happy Reading! 

For His Kingdom, 
Taylor Reid   

Nancy Moser’s The Journey of Josephine Cain 5 book giveaway!

The Journey of Josephine Cain by Nancy Moser follows the adventures of a D.C. socialite as she gets involved with the building of the Transcontinental Railroad right after the Civil War. Be sure to check out Nancy's fun Pinterest board for the book!

Enter to win 1 of 5 copies of the book!

  Five winners will receive:

• The Journey of Josephine Cain by Nancy Moser

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 26th. All winners will be announced October 28th at the Litfuse blog.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to visit the Litfuse blog on the 28th to see if you won one of the books!

Litfuse Blog Tour Event: The Journey of Josephine Cain (American Tapestry) by Nancy Moser

As you can tell I've been doing a lot of book reviews. I have been extremely blessed this month to say the least. Lately, I have been deeply impressed by the authors writing for the  American Tapestry novels. There are eight total in the series  I previously read and reviewed the fifth in the series  The Courier of Caswell Hall and that one was just as great as this one.

The Journey of Josephine Cain (American Tapestry) by Nancy Moser 

Having the Wild West as a backdrop to this novel enhanced its life leaving me captivated. Moser's talent for writing shined in this book and proves to be a great escape for readers alike.

Set in the late 1860's in the aftermath of the Civil War,  reader's are given a glimpse into the life of Josephine Cain and her journey at a crucial time in her life. Being a young socialite and unmarried from Washington D.C. Josephine feels it is time for a change in her life. She is ready to be married, but she most of all is ready to finally have a little excitement in her life and to be reunited with her father whom she misses dearly. 

Josephine has a great relationship with her father who has been given the important task of overseeing the building of the Transcontinental Railroad. Her relationship with her mother is more one-sided she feels. After the death of her brother and cousin in the Civil War her mother and aunt have taken to morning every single day. For Josephine, she is ready to move on with her life. But some would argue that the Wild West-- a place populated by hundreds of laborers, outlaws, and Indians-- is hardly the place for a wealthy general's daughter. Josephine is spirited and determined enough to make the trip. 

Hudson Maguire works on the railroad with his brother Raleigh to save up money and send some back home to their family. I liked Hudson. He was an honest hardworking man who anyone would admire and put their trust in. Hudson becomes Mr. Cain's most trusted and valued worker, and this puts him in the position of always being around Josephine. These two have a interest in each other even though they don't want to admit or address their feelings. Mainly because both are engaged to other people, but that doesn't mean they're in love with their significant others.

Life working alongside the construction of the railroad is a far cry from the "civil" and proper life Josephine is use to back in the nation's capital. She faces gunfights, harsh weather, vigilant uprisings and witnesses a different side of life some live that might not be considered moral. As time progresses, Josephine is challenged in what she thinks she knows or understands. This leads her to finding a new and unique purpose for her life and maybe even true love. 

This book was delightful and as beautiful as the sunsets that Hudson and Josephine share a love for. I was also quite intrigued by the usage of the Native Indians in the book. It has ignited a curiosity for me to research more on the topic in general. If you want to know what I'm talking about you're just going to have to read the book to find out. Sorry! 

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 bookshelves 

For His Kingdom,
Taylor Reid 
 

Disclaimer: I received a free copy for an honest review from Litfuse Publicity Group.

Book Review # 14: A Bride for Keeps by Melissa Jagears

Melissa Jagears steps out onto the christian fiction prairie with her tender tale of love. Along with her promising writing technique she'll be sure to have grabbed a bandwagon full of readers ready for her next book! 

A Bride for Keeps is a charming read with a new take on marriage of convenience.

Everett Cline might be drowning in the demands of owning a farm, but won't humiliate himself by looking for a wife ever again. Especially after being jilted three times in a row by mail-order brides. When a well-meaning neighbor takes it upon herself to bring another mail-order bride to town. Cline has reason to doubt it will work out, and with her being the prettiest woman he has ever seen it makes it harder to believe she would be content for her to marry a simple man such as himself. 

Julia Lockwood has only been a pretty face. Her father used her for a business acquisition and her former fiance showed his true intentions and colors before they were even married. By working out a way to leave her life in Massachusetts, she resorts to a mail-order marriage in far-away Kansas. All in hopes that she will meet people that care about more than her looks. 

The pacing was a tad bit leisure. There were times I wanted both characters to just sit down and talk instead of playing the cat-and-mouse game. Other than that it was an endearing read and Jagears has a promising career I feel.  

What I did like about this book though was that Julia wasn't pinning herself as "woe is me because I'm beautiful." It was more of a "I hope people see the inner me." It reminded me of the Proverbs31 verse that beauty is fleeting. I don't know if Jagears was going for that, but when I was reading Julia's character I really appreciated that character choice for her because 1) it was true and 2) it had biblical meaning behind it.

Looking forward to future material from her. 

Rating: 3 out of 5 bookshelves 
[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."] 

Amazon  
Barnes and Noble 

For His Kingdom, 
Taylor Reid

Litfuse Blog Tour Event: Return to Me by Lynn Austin (The Restoration Chronicles)

 Attention: If you would like to win a copy of Lynn Austin's "Return to Me" read this review and follow the instructions in the rafflecopter! More information below...

Return to Me is enchanting, astounding, remarkable and radiant!

Do not feel intimidated by the 459 pages! Lynn Austin has given life to the old Testament books Ezra and Nehemiah where the Israelites are released from Babylon  and travel back to Jerusalem in order to rebuild a temple for God and return to Him and His love.

Of course it's all fiction. Yet, Austin has truly done a splendid job at digging deeper and making this story captivating for her readers. 

I was honestly taken back that I found this book so precious. This book  illustrates all of the qualities one experiences with his or her walk with the Lord - love, redemption, self-doubt, perseverance, and a lot more. Every character is at a different place in their faith and loyalty to God when the book starts, and from there each character deals with their own struggles that commonly happens while walking with the Lord.  

As I touched on previously, this book takes place during 539 B.C. and a twenty year journey continuation throughout the story.

Iddo's prayers are finally answered, after years of watching his children and grandchildren wander from their faith. King Cyrus is allowing God's chosen people to return to Jerusalem. Iddo, joyfully prepares for his family's departure, only to learn that his family is comfortable living in the culture of Babylon and wishes to remain there instead of leaving.

Zechariah, Iddo's oldest grandson, feels torn between his grandfather's ancient beliefs and the comfort and success his father enjoys in Babylon. But he soon begins to hear the voice of God, encouraging him to return to the land given to his forefathers. 

"Return to Me" tells the compelling story of Iddo and Zechariah, the women who love them, and the faithful followers who struggle to rebuild their lives in obedience to the God who beckons them home.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 bookshelves 

Return To Me by Lynn Austin | Kindle Fire Giveaway & Facebook Party

So grab your copy of "Return to Me" or enter in for a chance to win one from my first contest that I have ever done! I'm looking forward to joining Lynn on the evening of October 22nd for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book, don’t let that stop you from coming!)

GIVEAWAY TIME! Yes, this is my first giveaway ever! Please be patient with me as I try this Rafflecopter thing out! The reason for this giveaway is because I ended up getting a second copy from Litfuse on accident and they said I could do whatever I wanted with it. The only thing I could come up with was doing a giveaway. I have been truly blessed by receiving books so I want to pass it on. The giveaway is simple: leave a blog post comment as the Rafflecopter says and on Oct. 22 a winner will be drawn and I will announce and contact the winner! Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

For His Kingdom,
Taylor Reid

Disclaimer: I received a free copy for an honest review from Litfuse Publicity Group.

Book Review #13: A Home for My Heart by Anne Mateer

A Home for My Heart is Anne Mateer's third published book.

I am privileged to say that I have been following Mateer's stories since her first novel. In a way I feel more connected to an author's writing, especially, if I have read all of their novels (or close to it).

This book was a good read. Not my favorite of Mateer's, but still definitely a good one! Mateer is gifted at keeping her reader's engaged throughout the story. Never have I been fully aware of what was going to happen to the characters which makes me want to keep reading even more.

This story has all the twists, turns and surprises to keep readers thinking about this story. This ultimately is a story of love and finding the home we all long for. Which might mean finding out that the home is more about the inner meaning, and not the physical sense.

The backdrop for this story is a 1910 orphanage where Sadie Sillsby suddenly finds herself in line for the esteemed role of matron, which entails the overseeing of the orphanage. Sadie loves the children at the orphanage, but there is a catch to being the matron. You have to be single.

This puts a strain on Sadie and her beau's--Blaine-- relationship and future plans of marriage and starting a family of their own. Sadie is torn between the two choices set before her and constantly wonders if the choice she makes was the right one.

There was a lot of heart in this story along with compassion and loving for those who aren't freely given it. I loved how Mateer showed the different aspects that love can be demonstrated. Really impactful and full of truth.

Rating: 4 out of 5 bookshelves 

[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."] 
Amazon 
Barnes and Noble 

Side note: This book become close to my heart in particular because my father was adopted 6 months after he was born. It puts in perspective the meaning of family and how deep and genuine love is. I find it inspiring to hear of adoption stories.

For His Kingdom,
Taylor Reid

Melanie Dobson book giveaway!

Melanie Dobson's latest release, The Courier of Caswell Hall, is a riveting story you won't want to miss. The newest offering in the American Tapestries™ series, it follows an unlikely spy who discovers freedom and love in the midst of the American Revolution.
 
Enter to win 1 of 5 copies of the book!

  Five winners will receive:

• The Courier of Caswell Hall by Melanie Dobson

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 5th. All winners will be announced October 7th at the Litfuse blog.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to visit the Litfuse blog on the 7th to see if you won one of the books!

Litfuse Blog Tour Event: The Courier of Caswell Hall (American Tapestry) by Melanie Dobson

Today, was the most perfect day to read Dobson's novel. It was raining and combining it with a cup of hot coco creates a delectable combination to get swept away in a new book. Seriously, best day and best atmosphere to read this book.

The Courier of Casewell Hall (American Tapestry) by Melanie Dobson 

This book blew me away. Being a history nerd and taking a few history courses this semester at community college myself; Dobson transported me back to the early years during the fight for independence in America between the British and English.

Dobson's writing had me by the prologue--which usually doesn't happen for me. Still, there was so much going in the prologue that it made me want to know how those characters got to that moment. By the end of chapter 1, I knew I had to keep reading. I finished this book in one sitting. It was seriously that great.

What I really loved about this book was that romance was not number one. Even though I consider myself to be a hopeless romantic, it can be refreshing to read about a strong heroine character that make decisions for herself and not for the man she wants to please in hopes of marriage. I want to point out though that there is romance and it did make my heart flutter a little. Again, it was just refreshing to read of two characters ready to put the independence of their country first, and their personal lives second. That sacrifice I feel made them stronger in how they felt about each other. 

The first character we meet is Lydia Caswell who comes from a wealthy Virgina plantation owning family of Loyalists. Lydia is twenty-five and has had an estranged engagement to Seth Hammond (a rebel) for the past five years (which the two become friends later on.) One night during a night walk, she hears a moaning sound of pain coming from the riverbank near her home, Caswell Hall. She finds it to be coming from a wounded man. Taking any sort of person into her care and not knowing what side he stands on could put Lydia's family in danger, but she takes him in anyways knowing she couldn't let him die. By saving this man's life, her life changes forever. I really liked Lydia. She was a strong woman figuring out what she believed in and what side she supported-- the Crown or Independence?

As the story progress the British and Continental armies are waging war in the year 1781. With all that is going on an unlikely spy discovers freedom and love in midst of it all.               
By nursing Nathan back to health-- the man Lydia found-- who is a Patriot, and also an enemy, forms a bond with Lydia. Lydia's sympathy slowing grows towards America and when British officers come to her plantation it's the final push Lydia needs to know she must help Nathan escape.

Lydia then takes on the former job of her friend Sarah Hammond which is delivering secret messages to the Patriots in Williamsburg. She soon learns of a plot to assassinate General Washington, and Lydia knows she must risk her life in order to alert Nathan before it can be carried out.  

There was so much depth and richness to this book that I felt like I was watching an HBO series about the history of America like John Adams or even the movie Lincoln. Dobson does a fantastic job at creating a plot that involves powerful women that helped form the country we now call America and its history.


If you love history this book is something you should add to your 'MUST READ' list. If you love spies, intrigue with a hint of romance this is also a must for you. If you just love a good read this is a must for you. Overall, I think it's a must read.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5  bookshelves

If you would like to win a copy of this book there is a giveaway going on until the 30th of September of 10 copies on Goodreads.

Soon, there will also be more coming up at the Litfuse Group's website. You will not want to miss out!

Happy reading everyone!

For His Kingdom,
Taylor Reid 
 
Disclaimer: I received a free copy for an honest review from Litfuse Publicity Group.