The Lady of Galway Manor by Jennifer Deibel

 

In 1920, Annabeth De Lacy's father is appointed landlord of Galway Parish in Ireland. Bored without all the trappings of the British Court, Annabeth convinces her father to arrange an apprenticeship for her with the Jennings family--descendants of the creator of the famed Claddagh Ring.

Stephen Jennings longs to do anything other than run his family's jewelry shop. Having had his heart broken, he no longer believes in love and is weary of peddling the ÒliesÓ the Claddagh Ring promises.

Meanwhile, as the war for Irish independence gains strength, many locals resent the De Lacys and decide to take things into their own hands to display their displeasure. As events take a dangerous turn for Annabeth and her family, she and Stephen begin to see that perhaps the "other side" isn't quite as barbaric and uncultured as they'd been led to believe--and that the bonds of friendship, love, and loyalty are only made stronger when put through the refiner's fire.

Travel to the Emerald Isle for another poignant and romantic story from the enchanted pen of Jennifer Deibel.

 

My thoughts:

This is the first book that I have read by this author, and I will say that I was surprised by how much I liked it.  The setting, the descriptive writing and the characters are all amazing. I loved reading about the Claddagh ring, it’s an interesting story.

The places they visited, the food they ate and the reaction of someone new to a different lifestyle in new surroundings made me feel like I was experiencing the same things the characters experienced.  This is a book to savor and one for your keeper shelf.

I received a copy from the publisher.  All opinions are my own.

Piece by Piece by Laura Bradford

About the bookA grieving mother learns to heal in Amish country, in this heartfelt, beautifully told novel from national bestselling author Laura Bradford.

Danielle Parker is a gold-medal mom--the kind who volunteers in her children's classrooms, shuttles them between activities, throws legendary birthday parties, and has a remedy on hand for any emergency. Whatever her husband, Jeff, and their children need, Dani is there, always.
Except for one day.

On that day--the day that Dani reluctantly takes some "me time" while her mom and Jeff drive the children to the park--the unthinkable happens. The car crash leaves no survivors. Somehow, Dani gets through the funerals and visits, accepting neighbors' sympathy and dropped-off meals. All the while, guilt and grief make her wish the accident had claimed her life too. Then a call comes from Lydia Schlabach, an Amish woman Dani befriended in childhood. In addition to condolences, Lydia offers Dani something more: a place to escape to.

In Pennsylvania's Amish country, Dani's days take on a new rhythm, marked by the clip-clop of buggies and the bustle of chores. Lydia gives Dani space to mourn, to think, and to realize how long it's been since she felt like a person in her own right. And with the help of friendships old and new, Dani learns about the ways life continues to surprise us--even after the deepest loss--with joy, love, and second chances. . . .My thoughts:

Piece by Piece is such a beautiful and heartfelt story and the latest novel penned by Ms. Bradford. It’s a story of love, unbelievable loss, friendship and coming to terms with your new normal life. The story of Danielle Parker who lost her entire family in a tragic accident was an emotional and powerful one for sure.  I could imagine Dani’s grief, her heartache and her reluctance to visit her dearest friend since the description was so vivid.

In this impeccably written book, the author captured my emotions which means I cried quite often but I also felt hopeful for all of the incredible characters that were so lovingly crafted.  It’s been a few days since I finished this book but the characters still cross my mind occasionally.  The journey I took with Dani was a difficult one at times, it was filled with grief, but also love, patience and understanding.  I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley.  All opinions are my own. 

The Edge of Belonging by Amanda Cox

Book Description

When Ivy Rose returns to her hometown to oversee an estate sale, she soon discovers that her grandmother left behind more than trinkets and photo frames--she provided a path to the truth behind Ivy's adoption. Shocked, Ivy seeks clues to her past, but a key piece to the mystery is missing.

Twenty-four years earlier, Harvey James finds an abandoned newborn who gives him a sense of human connection for the first time in his life. His desire to care for the baby runs up against the stark fact that he is homeless. When he becomes entwined with two people seeking to help him find his way, Harvey knows he must keep the baby a secret or risk losing the only person he's ever loved.

In this dual-time story from debut novelist Amanda Cox, the truth--both the search for it and the desire to keep it from others--takes center stage as Ivy and Harvey grapple with love, loss, and letting go. 

My thoughts:

The Edge of Belonging is the heart-stirring, dual-time line debut novel penned by Amanda Cox. I loved every single thing about this book from beginning to end. I fell in love with the characters, they are caring, selfless and they came to life before my eyes as I read their story.

I should give a heads up and let readers know to have a box of tissue handy because you will probably shed a few tears as you go on the journey with Ivy Rose as she discovers the truth behind her adoption. In addition to Ivy Rose, I absolutely adored Harvey James and the other characters so lovingly crafted by this talented author.

Overall, I thought this was an impressive debut novel that is beautifully written and deserves more than a five-star rating. This is a must read in my opinion and will go on my keeper shelf.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are completely my own.

All Manner of Things by Susie Finkbeiner

Book Description

When Annie Jacobson's brother Mike enlists as a medic in the Army in 1967, he hands her a piece of paper with the address of their long-estranged father. If anything should happen to him in Vietnam, Mike says, Annie must let their father know.

In Mike's absence, their father returns to face tragedy at home, adding an extra measure of complication to an already tense time. As they work toward healing and pray fervently for Mike's safety overseas, letter by letter the Jacobsons must find a way to pull together as a family, regardless of past hurts. In the tumult of this time, Annie and her family grapple with the tension of holding both hope and grief in the same hand, even as they learn to turn to the One who binds the wounds of the brokenhearted.

Author Susie Finkbeiner invites you into the Jacobson family's home and hearts during a time in which the chaos of the outside world touched their small community in ways they never imagined.

My thoughts:

Oh, I loved this book so much!  It's the kind of story where you are compelled to keep reading page after page not wanting to stop for one second.  So, I didn't!  I read this book in one day getting to know the Jacobson's who were a family I could easily imagine spending time with.

In this beautifully crafted story I celebrated the happy times and cried so hard during the bad times because the author made me feel the same emotions her characters felt.  Set during the Vietnam War this novel is about family, faith, forgiveness but most of all love.  A family who is all too familiar with war and the effects it has on their love ones leaving Annie, Mike, Joel and their mother on their own while the father faces his own demons.  The one character I wasn't sure I would like turned out to be one of my favorites and I can picture him and his diner in my mind.

The letters exchanged between Mike and his family during his deployment are poignant and I looked forward to reading each and every single one of them.  I don't know for sure but I imagine the author became emotional while composing them because they certainly got to me. I am in awe of the gift Ms. Finkbeiner possesses because she pulls me into her characters lives.  She makes me feel like I am in their home, their workplace or wherever she chooses to take me which is the reason she is one of my must read authors.  If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I would.

If anyone is looking for a superbly written novel with unforgettable characters then I highly recommend All Manner of Things. This is one of my favorite books that I've read this year and I hope it will be one of yours.

I received a copy from the publisher but was under no obligation to write a review. All opinions are my own. 

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More Than Words Can Say (Patchwork Family #2) by Karen Witemeyer

Book Description

After being railroaded by the city council, Abby needs a mans name on her bakery's deed, and a man she can control, not the stoic lumberman Zacharias who always seems to exude silent confidence. She cant even control her pulse when she's around him. But as trust grows between them, she finds she wants more than his rescue. She wants his heart. 

Paperback, 384 pages
Expected publication: June 4th 2019 by Bethany House Publishers (first published June 2019)

Links to purchase     Amazon        B&N

My thoughts:

Oh how I loved this book!  This is the second book in the Patchwork Family series and one of my most anticipated reads of 2019, partly because I have often thought of Zach since meeting him in More Than Meets the Eye and I have been waiting for his story but mainly because I love anything written by Karen Witemeyer.  

Abby was instantly likeable and her story made me so glad that I live in a world where it's perfectly acceptable for women  to own a business without having a man's name to put on the deed.  That's  how things were during the 1800's and since her father's death the city council started giving her a hard time. So, what's a single woman  who owns and operates a successful bakery to do?  Well, she decides to enter into a marriage of convenience which adds several humorous interactions with a couple of the single men in town.  My goodness, Abby is determined she is not giving up her bakery and livelihood without a fight and that's when I rooted for her to have the best life had to offer her.

Things didn't  get off to a good start as Abby went through the list of suitable men to marry, there were some duds who frequented her bakery but there was that one man she thought would be a good choice.  Unfortunately he disagreed much to my disappointment but luckily Abby has a sister who  has her back so that was a wonderful surprise when she pays Zach a visit.   Zach has changed so much since the first book and the change has been positive making this readers heart so happy. I have admired the sacrifices he made for his Patchwork family and was so happy to reconnect with Evangeline and Seth.  I didn't always condone Zach's behavior but knew he had little choice in how he provided for his family.

I think the author strikes the perfect blend of humor, love of family and faith in this wonderful story.  This could be read as a standalone but I recommend reading  the books in order to fully appreciate the characters and the fantastic writing of Ms. Witemeyer. 

I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley but was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own. 

Sing a New Song by Candee Fick

Book Description:

The pampered diva is about to meet her match.

Songbird Gloria Houghton has always needed to be the center of attention, but the spotlight has shifted. Seeking fame and a fresh start, she finds a new stage in Branson, Missouri…only to risk being replaced by a manipulative rival. If Gloria can’t be the star, who is she?

Jack-of-all-trades Nick Sherwood is just one leaf on a vast family tree that includes a restaurant chef, hotel owners, and even the headline act at a family-owned theater. He’s seen how fame can blind a person with jealousy and is more than content to stay in the background thank you very much. If only he wasn’t so fascinated--and irritated--by the newest addition to the staff.

After a disaster of a first impression and financial difficulties land Gloria in the humblest of jobs—with Nick as her boss—it might be time for her to learn to sing a new song.

If you like strong families, country music, and redeemed villains, then you’ll love this next chapter in The Wardrobe series by Candee Fick.

My thoughts:

I had been waiting for Gloria's story for so long.  She's been the one character throughout the Wardrobe series who annoyed me so much.  Is it terrible that I wanted her to get her comeuppance?  Well of course it is, but I'm only human and she's fictional so maybe it's not so bad after all.

Something happened to me while reading this book and I owe it all to the writing of Ms. Fick.  You see, I actually started to like Gloria and I thought her move to Branson, Missouri was just the reality check she needed to become the humble young woman who she became.  She had to perform menial tasks before rehearsing and performing in the family-owned theater where she worked.  I have to admit to respecting her for doing what she needed to do in order to survive and realize her dreams.

This series has focused on family and friends from the very beginning but in this one I liked the family dynamic more than I thought I would.  The Sherwood family are hardworking and down to earth. I loved them all but have to say Nick is my favorite.  He's kind, caring, funny and the true friend Gloria needs as she makes a fresh start in Branson.

Although this is the third book in the series I think it can easily be read as a standalone and if you like sweet clean reads I recommend this one.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own.

An Amish Reunion by Amy Clipston,Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller, Kelly Irvin

Book Description

From bestselling authors in the Amish genre come four stories about reuniting with those you love.

Their True Home by Amy Clipston

When Marlene Bawell moved from Bird-in-Hand ten years ago, she was in the deepest of mourning for her mother. Now they have moved back so her father can seek employment after being laid off. To help save money, Marlene works at the hardware store owned by Rudy Swarey’s father. She knew Rudy growing up and didn’t think much of him—because he was so immature! But just as she starts to realize how much Rudy has changed, her life is once again turned upside down. Will Marlene ever have a chance to find her own true home?

A Reunion of Hearts by Beth Wiseman

Elizabeth and Gideon Beiler experienced one of life’s most tragic events. Unable to get past their grief, the couple abandoned their Amish faith and went in different directions, though neither could bear to formally dissolve the marriage. When their loved ones reach out to them to come home for a family reunion, Elizabeth has reason to believe that Gideon won’t be there. Gideon also thinks that Elizabeth has declined the invitation. Family and friends are rooting for them to reunite, but will it all be enough for Elizabeth and Gideon to get past their grief and recapture a time when they were in love and had a bright future ahead of them?

A Chance to Remember by Kathleen Fuller

Cevilla Schlabach, Birch Creek’s resident octogenarian matchmaker, is surprised when Richard, a man from her Englisch past, arrives in Birch Creek for a visit. While he and Cevilla take several walks down memory lane, they wonder what the future holds for them at this stage of life—friendship, or the possibility of something else?

Mended Hearts by Kelly Irvin

At eighteen Hannah Kauffman made a terrible mistake. Her parents and members of her Jamesport Amish community say they’ve forgiven her. But she feels their eyes following her everywhere she goes with eighteen-month-old Molly. Thaddeus, Molly’s father, escaped this fate by running away to Jamesport. Now that Thaddeus is gone, Hannah’s old friend Phillip is stepping up to be by her side. He has waited patiently for Hannah to realize just how much he cares for her. But when Thaddeus returns after two years, Hannah can’t deny the love she feels for him. Does the fact that Phillip has waited patiently for her all this time mean that she owes him something? Can she trust either one of them? Can she trust herself? She has repented and been forgiven by the One who is most important—her heavenly Father. But is she willing to risk making more mistakes by opening herself up to love?

My thoughts:

I am a huge fan of the four authors in this collection and have read most everything they have written so I knew I would enjoy each of the four stories.  I normally don't have a favorite in these collections but in this one my absolute favorite was penned by Beth Wiseman.  I absolutely adored Elizabeth and Gideon Beiler In a Reunion of Hearts.

Their story was the most moving to me and I rooted for them to find the peace and happiness they truly deserved.

One of the other things I liked was reconnecting  with characters crafted by Amy Clipston in, Their True Home and Kathleen Fuller in, A Chance to Remember.  Admittedly I haven't always liked Rudy Swarey but Ms. Clipston managed to do what I thought would be impossible by making him likeable so kudos to her for making that happen!  I've always loved Cevilla Schlabach and I loved her storyline so much.  Kelly Long always captures my heart with her writing making her one of my favorite authors.

All of the stories are poignant with characters who you will love making this collection one I highly recommend. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher but was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own. 

Daughter's of Northern Shores (Blackbird Mountain#2) by Joanne Bischof

About the book 

Aven Norgaard understands courage. Orphaned within an Irish workhouse, then widowed at just nineteen, she voyaged to America where she was wooed and wed by Thor Norgaard, a Deaf man in rural Appalachia. That the Lord saw her along the winding journey and that Aven now carries Thor’s child are blessings beyond measure. Yet while Thor holds her heart, it is his younger brother and rival who haunts her memories. Haakon—whose selfish choices shattered her trust in him.

Having fled the farm after trying to take Aven as his own, Haakon sails on the North Atlantic ice trade where his soul is plagued with regrets that distance cannot heal. Not even the beautiful Norwegian woman he’s pursued can ease the torment. When the winds bear him home after four years away, Haakon finds the family on the brink of tragedy. A decades-old feud with the neighboring farm has wrenched them into the fiercest confrontation on Blackbird Mountain since the Civil War. Haakon’s cunning and strength hold the power to seal many fates, including Thor’s which is already at stake through a grave illness brought to him as the first prick of warfare.

Now Haakon faces the hardest choice of his life. One that shapes a battlefield where pride must be broken enough to be restored, and where a prodigal son may finally know the healing peace of surrender and the boundless gift of forgiveness. And when it comes to the woman he left behind in Norway, he just might discover that while his heart belongs to a daughter of the north, she’s been awaiting him on shores more distant than the land he’s fighting for.

My thoughts:

I had been anticipating this book forever it seemed, but actually it really wasn't all that long.  I could not wait to reunite with the characters that I fell in love with in Sons of Blackbird Mountain and meet any new ones the author wanted to introduce her readers to.

It took a long time for me to read this book, not because I didn't love it but because quite simply I didn't want it to end.  I have absolutely loved Thor from the beginning which is probably why he has been my favorite of the brothers. The author certainly makes you forget that he's deaf and that he has had a lot to overcome but he manages to live his best life with the woman he loves, Aven.  It was easy to love her and I kept thinking what a perfect fit she is making me wanting for her to have the best and happiest life she possibly could.

As much as I don't like to admit it, I truly didn't warm up to Haakan and maybe it's because I still harbored ill feelings towards him from the first book.  I did appreciate the difference in him in this book but I wasn't as happy with him as I wanted to be.  I'm sure other readers will feel different which is the beauty of having another perspective but the best perspective is your own which is why I encourage readers to pick up a copy of this book. I suggest reading Sons of Blackbird Mountains first because it is such a fantastic read. 

Overall, this is another beautifully and thoughtfully penned book by the author.  This is the second book I've read by her and I can say that she is now one of my must read authors and I am looking forward to what she has in the future for her readers.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own.