Review ~ Hope Like Wildflowers by Pepper Basham

 

Barbour Books ~ Oct 1, 2024 ~ 320 Pages ~ Paperback

Book 2 of 2: My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge

About the Book

Kizzie McAdams spent her childhood longing to see beyond the mountains of home, but when her job as a servant in a landowner’s house results in an unplanned pregnancy, her world tips into uncertainty and heartbreak. Disowned by her father, she seeks comfort in the arms of the man who promises to take care of her, but his support is conditional and inconsistent. She finds acceptance in the home of a nearby family who not only offer Kizzie friendship but point her to a deeper understanding of God’s love.

Despite her change of heart, her status as a social outcast brings with it continued threats and alienation so she flees her past in hopes of starting over in a nearby town. But her new world carries many of the same prejudices as the old. It also brings the unexpected friendship of businessman Noah Lewis, a man who lives with the same desire as Kizzie for helping the marginalized.

Unfortunately, Kizzie and Noah’s attempts to help those in need pit them against Noah’s elder brother, a powerful mill owner who holds control of the family finances. Is Kizzie and Noah’s growing romance strong enough to battle family power, social expectations, and Kizzie’s past to capture their happy ending? And when Kizzie’s first love returns to claim her, which future will she choose?  

Purchase: Barbour Books

     Amazon

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My Review 4.5 STARS

Basham once again shows the strength, determination, and resilience that mountain folk are made of. Kizzie is a young woman dreaming of love and romance, and her journey to discovering just who the greatest Love of her life will be is one fraught with poor choices. Anyone who has been redeemed from such a life will surely feel a deep kinship with Kizzie, and her heartaches and triumphs will resonate deeply. Based on her own family history going back generations, Basham captures the sheer will Kizzie needed to continue on, and how when we surrender to God, he brings beauty from the ashes. 

Hope Like Wildflowers is such a rewarding read, filled with characters who draw out every emotion. I highly recommend it to anyone who is a fan of historical fiction, or just good writing! 

I appreciate Barbour Publishing providing me a copy for review purposes. This opinion is my own. No compensation received. 

~Happy Reading~

Exodus 14:14 ~ The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.

 Sometimes life is hard but that is when we have to dig deep, settle in with our Bible, and immerse ourselves in the truth of who God is and cling to his promises that are prolific throughout Scripture.

Hang in there, faithful friends.

Long Hot Summer

Whew! It's been a long, hot, and busy summer here in our corner of the foothills of North Carolina. August isn't looking any better, except for the sometimes pop-up afternoon thunderstorms. Those storms have been pretty fierce lately. But we saw the most incredible double rainbow the other day. I think it's the first double one seen here on our farm in the 24 years we've lived here. 

My photo doesn't do it justice. at. all. 

As for busyness, the chickens, cat, and puppy keep me hopping all day every day. I never knew so much work went into raising a puppy. This one was dumped in our yard back mid spring and our youngest adult son wanted to keep her so we did. She is a running, rolling, jumping ball of energy; perhaps a Vizsla Terrier mix. The vet says maybe so we're going with it. LOL In this photo she was about 12 pounds and now she's almost four times this size, weighing in at 44 pounds last week!!! 

My husband and I started landscaping the front yard, which we've been wanting to do for years. At our age, we work very slow....and painfully. But we're pretty much finished! Again, my pictures aren't great and don't capture how nice it actually looks. Anyone who has ever been here knows it's a HUGE improvement.

I have two books for review purposes so I'm excited to share about those when I'm done. It's been a slow summer for reading too. Somehow my days are filled up with busy work and by the time evening comes, I have no energy left to even open a book. 

I'd love to know how your summer is going! Have you been gardening, reading, writing, lazing by the pool, or babysitting grands? 

Whatever you've been up to, I hope most of all you're staying strong in Christ! The world is certainly a little more crazy than it was last summer but we can trust Him to give us all we need, and to help us get through all the tough times.

An Unintentional Blogging Break

I really didn't mean to take a blogging break but summer became one big crazy thing!! So much has happened but hopefully all is on the UP side now. 

Praying it is so!

I've been reading a few good books over the summer that I plan on reviewing here. I'm on the launch team and just finished my review copy of a new book coming out in October, The Premonition at Withers Farm by Jaime Jo Wright. If you've read any of Jaime Jo's novels you know they are epic suspense bordering on thriller, which I love!!! 

As for craftiness, Slow Stitch is my medium nowadays although my husband did buy me a new sewing machine a couple of months ago!! I'm excited to get to where I can use it regular. Taking it in and out of a case is such a hassle. Or I'm super lazy ;) This is a piece I made for my oldest granddaughters 10th birthday this month. It's a combo of applique, beading, and slow stitch. The butterfly was a beast to bead but I think it came out pretty. 

If you're on Facebook, I'm in an awesome group called Roxy's Journal of Stitchery. Soooo many uber-talented stitchers in there. Come on over and check it out! You don't have to post your work (I haven't yet) but you can still enjoy and be encouraged by the other stitchers. It's a project oriented group that two sisters lead with video etc. You can find them on YouTube and check it out first!

Well, lovelies, I'm off to do stuff and get stuff done!

Review ~ A Feeling of Home | Redemption’s Light 3 | Susan Anne Mason

Bethany House Publishers

July 1, 2022

Within months, Isabelle Wardrop lost her parents, her fortune, and her home. With no options, she is forced to accept help from Dr. Mark Henshaw--the very man she blames for her mother's death. Mark has hopes of earning Isabelle's forgiveness and affections, but an unexpected incident may derail any hope they have of being together.

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My Review 3.5 STARS

There’s something harmonious about Susan Mason’s writing. The long and short of it is that Mason writes historical fiction that keeps my interest by creating riveting characters and intriguing plot lines.

That said, there are several phrases/ideas that caused me to lower my rating on this one. There are references to toxicity in relationships that are definitely modern. The atomic bomb hadn’t been used yet so I don’t think they would know what a “toxic ball” even was. Also, one particular gentleman who claims to be a Christian referred to something as being “a sign from the universe”. That is new age thought, not the thought of any followers of Christ that I have known these last 40 years. I may be a tad nit-picky but to me, these things matter in CF.

None of this stops me from wanting to read any stories Mason publishes in the future though. She writes compelling storylines full of emotion and grace!

I highly recommend this entire series to readers looking for pleasant summer reading. I received a print copy from the author and publisher. No review was required.

Review ~ The Little Women Devotional by Rachel Dodge

Devotional Inspiration from the Lives of Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy
 
The Little Women Devotional offers lovely inspiration that explores the themes of faith, family, contentment, wisdom, and joy in the classic Louisa May Alcott novel, cherished by generations of readers.
Each reading corresponds with a chapter from the book and invites you to embrace God’s guiding hand in your life as His cherished daughter. This beautiful chapter-by-chapter devotional includes original artwork throughout, and each reading includes examples from the novel, scripture, life application, and prayers perfect for groups, book clubs, or personal reflection.

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My Review 4 STARS
Dodge has written a darling companion devotional based on one of my most favorite classic novels, Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. One of the sweetest things about this devotional is the lovely art work! Faith and family are integral in this devotional, making it one I recommend whether you are a fan of the classic novel or not.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Encouraging Words!

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-eBW4yaKNs

Review ~ The Mistletoe Countess | Pepper D Basham

COMING SEPTEMBER 2021

Will the magic of Christmas bring these two newlyweds closer together, or will the ghosts of the past lead them into a destructive discovery from which not even a Dickens’s Christmas can save them?

Mistletoe is beautiful and dangerous, much like the woman from Lord Frederick’s Percy’s past, so when he turns over a new leaf and arranges to marry for his estate, instead of his heart, he never expects the wrong bride to be the right choice. Gracelynn Ferguson never expected to take her elder sister’s place as a Christmas bride, but when she’s thrust into the choice, she will trust in her faithful novels and overactive imagination to help her not only win Frederick’s heart but also to solve the murder mystery of Havensbrook Hall before the ghosts from Frederick’s past ruin her fairytale future.

Pre-order - Amazon

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My Review 5 STARS!!!

‘God hadn't created her for plastic smiles and shallow relationships.’

Basham has gone all-out in The Mistletoe Countess, blending humor, adventure, longing and love to such an incredible extent that I could hardly put the book down! And it's the most quotable book I think I've ever read. I would give it 10 stars if I could!! Seriously, this story exceeded every expectation I had. It's filled with such an astounding uplifting of spirit through Grace, literally in the character, and in God's grace.

“I have very high standards, Lord Astley.” Her brows darted northward with a playful intensity. “I read fiction.”

Grace's character jumps right off the page and infuses life with boundless joy, energy, and love. She truly is one-of-a-kind in the heroine department. Her bravery and love know no bounds and draws everyone to life, especially Frederick. Grace is young, just 18, but God has gifted her such a strong faith in Him, even someone as wounded as Freddie can't help but be compelled by it.

‘He'd never have chosen Grace, but God knew what he'd needed. What his heart, future, and even Havensbrooke needed.’

It's no spoiler they get married and I loved seeing how they went from being virtual strangers to having their hearts forever woven together. Oh, they are just the best fictional couple!!! I sure hope the author decides to write an adventure mystery series featuring them. It would be simply smashing!!

"I know my heart holds a great number of emotions all the time and my head swirls with uncommon notions, but I do think you are the very best for me, and I can't imagine loving you more." She shrugged, hoping he caught her intention. "You've been absolutely and deliciously wonderful, Frederick Percy."

Basham includes an exceptional array of secondary characters as well. Readers will be clamoring for more, more, MORE!!!

I received an electronic copy from the publisher through Netgalley. No compensation has been received.

Review ~ A Bible Study Journal for Women compiled by Barbour Staff

 BARBOUR BOOKS / 2021 / PAPERBACK

Description

You want more from your time alone with scripture. . .
A Bible Study Journal for Women provides helpful instruction
and ample space for you to jot down your reflections.
 
Based on the million-copy bestseller How to Study the Bible, this journal describes the types, tools, and techniques of exploring God’s Word. And it allows you to share your thoughts and feelings along the way, creating a treasured record of your own walk with God.
 
A Bible Study Journal for Women is presented in a beautiful package featuring

• a flexible textured binding
• two-color interior printing
• stained page edges
• a ribbon marker

Here are everyday Bible helps for everyday spiritual growth.

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My Review 5 STARS!!!

I don't know about you but I love journals! This one is beautifully bound and has plenty of space for writing down questions and/or reflections while studying the Bible. It gives a helpful over view on how to prepare to study your Bible, discovering what the Bible means, particular study methods and useful study helps.  

I especially liked the emphasis in the beginning on preparing our hearts; being dependent on God and purposeful in our approach. It is all too often easy for me to rush to study and rush through study. This journal is a good stepping stone in my preparation and approach to study time. I'm using it to also journal my prayer beforehand. Visually, this journal is also aesthetically pleasing with its floral design and pink edged pages. I highly recommend it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Do you use a journal during Bible study time? If so, what kind do you have? 

Review ~ The Heart’s Charge | Hanger’s Horsemen 2 | Karen Witemeyer

 

For Years They've Been Nomads for Justice, but a Final Mission May Just Lead Their Hearts Home.

Members of the legendary Hanger's Horsemen, Mark Wallace and Jonah Brooks arrive in Llano County, Texas, to deliver a steed, never expecting they'd help deliver a baby as well. Left with an infant to care for, they head to a nearby foundling home, where Mark encounters the woman he nearly married a decade ago.

After failing at love, Katherine Palmer has dedicated her life to caring for children, teaming up with Eliza Southerland to start Harmony House. Eliza understands the pain of not fitting society's mold, being illegitimate and of mixed ancestry. Yet those are the very attributes that lead her to minister to outcast children. The taciturn Jonah intrigues her by defying all her stereotypes of men, but there are secrets behind his eyes--ghosts from wars past and others still being waged.

When the Horsemen hear rumors of missing children, they stay to investigate, sticking close to Harmony House and its beautiful owners. As they work together to uncover the truth, love and danger grow hand in hand until a final sinister scheme threatens to destroy them all.

Read an excerpt here.

Purchase *here.

*I am NOT affiliated with any vendors. Purchase links are for your convenience only. 

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My Review ~ 5 STARS!!!

Witemeyer is on my list of not-to-be-missed authors. In The Heart’s Charge, the character that resonated over and over with me was Jonah. Oh, the others are superbly written because, helloooo, it’s Karen Witemeyer, but there is just something about Jonah—the hardships he has overcome and not been embittered by—that makes him exceptional.

As a Horseman, Jonah has a physical presence that is quite intimidating to those who don’t know him. I could easily picture his tall stature and confident stride (or sitting a saddle) with a touch of arrogance. But he also has an intelligence and sensitivity that sees beyond the exterior to interior motives and emotions. He is quietly observant with a crackerjack sense of humor and is absolutely the perfect match for Eliza Sutherland! Their tension on the page is palpable, and the banter so much fun!!!

This has become one of my favorite series by this author. Not only will you laugh out loud but you’ll feel as if your own heart has been lassoed by these children and their plight, and that just might have you shedding a tear or two.

If you enjoy historical fiction interlaced with strong faith and sweet yet heart galloping romance, then do grab a copy of The Heart’s Charge today!

Pssst…I also recommend reading the first book, At Love’s Command, because…again…it’s Karen Witemeyer. J

I received a copy of the book from the publisher for review purposes. No compensation received.

Hope and Faith

 

I found a website this morning called Kingdom Bloggers. I haven't explored much of it but was encouraged by this post titled 

17 Encouraging Psalms of Hope When Things Seem Out of Control

"Hope and faith go together. Our faith feeds the fire of hope that relinquishes the worries of this world."

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The Psalms are my go-to when my mind is under assault. God's word never fails to encourage me, sustain me, strengthen me, and uphold me! 

If you're feeling overwhelmed today, I would encourage you to spend time in the Psalms and in prayer. 

There really isn't any better 'medicine' than God!!

Review ~ Let it Be Me | A Misty River Romance 2 | by Becky Wade

 

Publication: May 4, 2021 384 Pages, paperback

Having graduated college at 18, Sebastian Grant has continued to leverage his intelligence and determination to become a pediatric heart surgeon. The more accolades he receives, the more he's driven to pursue. Then he meets high school math teacher Leah Montgomery, and his fast-spinning world comes to a sudden stop.

Solving advanced math equations by the age of five, Leah has always wanted to pursue a PhD in mathematics. She willingly put that dream on hold to raise her brother. Now that he is of age, she's set on avoiding any obstacles to her goal--including romance. 

When Leah receives surprising news in the process of taking a test for tracking her ancestry, she asks Sebastian to help her comb through aged hospital records to learn more. Soon his presence isn't so easily ignored. But when Sebastian learns his best friend also has feelings for Leah, he begins to question his resolve to win her. Attaining their deepest desires may require more sacrifices than they ever imagined.

Purchase:

Bethany House

Read Excerpt HERE.

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My Review - 5 STARS!!!

Oh. My. This book is so incredibly good!!! Wade is a master at weaving life issues, faith questions, attraction, heartache and love into the most beautiful mosaic of emotions.

“Since the day we met,” he told her, “all I’ve wanted is to be with you.”

Sebastian Grant is the one that all other heroes are going to have to live up to from this moment on. He is the quintessential wounded hero. He’s guarded, loyal to a fault, and uber focused in his career as a pediatric heart surgeon. Throw in the added perk of him being tall, dark and handsome, and yep, not sure any other character is going to live up to Sebastian. J

Leah Montgomery gets the shock of her life when she receives her DNA results and it is on from there with such a compelling aspect to this story. She’s a genius mathematician so the way she goes about dealing with the news and ferreting out the truth of what happened kept me glued to the pages.

There are many great characters in this story. Wade has truly raised the bar with this one. Let it Be Me is destined for my Top Reads in 2021! 

I received an advanced and unedited copy from the publisher through Netgalley. No compensation received.

Review ~ Sword of Trust (Winds of Change2) by Debbie Lynne Costello

I'm so excited to announce that on Tuesday, March 22nd, I will have an interview with the two main characters from Sword of Trust!!! 

It was originally scheduled for today but I had to postpone. I sure hope you'll come back because not only will you get a little glimpse into Bryce and Deirdre, but there will be a giveaway involved as well!!

I really enjoyed this medieval novel and share my review below. 

If you haven't read it, it's available on Amazon. 

Amazon - Sword of Trust

*I'm not affiliated with Amazon. Link is provided as a courtesy only.

My Review ~ 4.5 STARS!!!

Sword of Trust (Winds of Change 2) by Debbie Lynne Costello

“There comes a point when a man must stand up for what he knows is right regardless of whether it goes against his king.”

Sword of Trust is the long-awaited second book in the Winds of Change series and it was worth the wait! Medieval is not my era of expertise but I was completely and utterly fascinated by the landscape, characters, and history displayed. It was an age of inconceivable brutality and Costello does not shrink back from that reality, yet with subtle words engaged this reader to the point that I was rather antsy when I had to put the book down.

I found much depth to Bryce and Deirdre and many others, loving them each for their unique qualities. Faith struggles are on prominent display as well, and hope brought about in a natural way that was quite encouraging. There is one character that stands out robustly in my mind and I sure hope *he gets his story someday because what a story it would be. 

*whispers to the author “Michael, Michael” LOL

If you have not read the first book, Sword of Forgiveness, I recommend doing so as I think it will add context and depth to this one. I highly recommend Sword of Trust! I received an ARC from the author and also purchased a personal copy. No compensation received.

Flowers Lift the Spirit!

I absolutely LOVE these Lenten Roses!!! 

A friend of mine gave me a small clump a few years ago and now they're blooming like crazy. They grow best in a raised bed out back so when I saw them blooming yesterday, I cut them and brought them in to enjoy. 

I actually forget about them being out there because of the location. My husband spotted them when he went to get me a few rocks for an aquarium project. I'm so glad he told me they were blooming!

Sadly, they're a might droopy today so I did some online reading and found out they make terrible cut flowers. The wilting occurs within 24 hours! *sniff *sniff

They were beautiful for a day and brought much enjoyment to my heart. The Lord knew I needed that. 

Our grandson had a rough week last week but is doing much better today. We trust there is a deeper work our Father is doing, even though it is unseen to our eyes. 

Many days I've felt like the Lenten Roses look today—wilted. But I know some of y'all must be praying for me because the sadness doesn't last long when it happens so thank you for your prayers!

I'm definitely going to buy fresh flowers at the grocer this week though. They just brighten everything up and make me smile. 

Do you buy fresh flowers for your home or office? If so, what are your favorites for longevity? 

Living in a Higgledy-Piggledy World

Did the blog title get your attention?

Do you know what higgledy-piggledy means?

We'll get to that in a minute.

I've been trying for weeks now to think of something to share besides books. Not that I don't love sharing about books because y'all know I adore books!

But life has not been all about books for me lately. If I'm honest (and I always try to be), it hasn't been for a long time. I guess you could say I've lost my book mo-jo. Not 100% but enough that I only aspired to read 20 books for the 2021 Goodreads Reading Challenge. 

You see, when I get overwhelmed with life, my default mechanism isn't to escape into a book anymore but to throw myself into creating...anything. Whether it be bookmarks, teacup birdfeeders, mini albums, cards, stitch work, or grab some paint and smear it, my hands want to DO something.

A fabric heart I made for a friend
and I enhanced the image in BeFunky*

2020 was a higgledy-piggledy year if there ever was one, especially in my lifetime. A pandemic and way too many angry political posts and people gave me anxiety way too often. I tried to withdraw as much as possible. Is it even possible to withdraw in a lockdown???

Yep. It is. I think I've done more sitting and staring into space and praying over the last year than ever before. Not that praying isn't a good thing. It is. It's actually the one thing that can calm my anxiety over issues I have no control over. And let's face it. That's most of life. 

But I trust the One whom I'm praying to, and know that because he spoke into existence the world and all its glory, and breathed life into man (wow, that gets me even typing that out!), then he is for sure the One who is in control. Not a single higgledy-piggledy thing that has happened in 2020 surprised Him.

And nothing happening in 2021 is surprising Him either. 

The latest higgledy-piggledy thing to happen in our life occurred three weeks ago. We got a phone call from our daughter that every grandparent dreads. Our youngest grandson (10 yrs old) was diagnosed with severe aplastic anemia. That means he's had a complete bone marrow failure. His body isn’t making any new red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets.

Y'all, this is bad. 

I mean life and death b.a.d. BAD.

The whole family is wrecked by this diagnosis. But my daughter is doing a stellar job of gathering intel information on this disease, handling the frequent trips to the hospital and clinic, all while being a wife, and mom to three other children. She has great support from her husband who, by God’s providence, is working remotely from home (and has been for much of the pandemic), so for them, some things have not had to change on the day-to-day running of the home front, which is a 3-acre farm!

Our only response allowable from this far away and during a pandemic is long distance support via texts, phone calls, and prayer. Of course we know prayer is the best thing we can do! Our faith and trust is in the One who is not surprised by any of these things happening.

Right now, our darling boy goes to St Jude’s twice a week for life-saving blood and platelets. We are praying tests results come in soon, giving a definitive reason for the cause of this life-altering diagnosis. Our hearts hurt for our sweet grandson and all this could possibly mean for his future.

Would you join us in praying for him and the medical staff who are caring for him? And for his parents and siblings and all the higgledy-piggledy thoughts and feelings they are experiencing?

Oh, I almost forgot!

Higgledy-Piggledy comes from an unknown origin according to *Merriam-Webster Dictionary, and was first heard around 1598 as an adverb meaning “in a confused, disordered, or random manner.”

I think we can all agree that 2020 was a confusing year with lots of disorder happening in random places! ☺

The MWD (Merriam-Webster Dictionary) also lists topsy-turvy as a synonym so I thought this quote appropriate –

“… our lives have been very topsy-turvy for quite some time.”— Lemony Snicket, The Austere Academy

Thank you for persevering through this super long (dare I say higgledy-piggledy once again?) post!!

By grace our spirits are lifted and our eyes are fixed on Jesus–our Redeemer, our Rock, our Sustainer.

Images enhanced with the Mosaic brush in BeFunky photo editing program.

* “Higgledy-piggledy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/higgledy-piggledy. Accessed 23 Feb. 2021.