Top Ten Tuesday: My Choice

        This week’s Top Ten Tuesday is a freebie, and it took me forever to decide what I wanted my list to be. After much thought, debate, and chocolate, I decided to go with something simple. My top ten favorite classics. I’m going to try to keep it from being repetitive, but everyone knows, some authors are just too good to resist.

1. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

        To Kill a Mockingbird is by far my favorite classic of all time. You will never, ever find a fictional novel with more meaning, or will touch you more, than this book. If you haven’t read it yet, you need to drop everything right now and get yourself a copy. You will never regret, or forget, reading this book.

You won’t regret purchasing this novel! Grab a copy here!

2. Anne of Green Gables series by L. M. Montgomery

        Anne of Green Gables is a classic novel that most girls have read at some point in their lifetime. What many people don’t know, however, is the fact that there are more than just the first book. Anne of Green Gables is wonderful, but there is also Anne of Avonlea, Anne of the Island, Anne of Windy Poplars, Anne’s House of Dreams, Anne of Ingleside, Rainbow Valley, and Rilla of Ingleside—the last two being more about Anne’s children than Anne herself. In my opinion, the later books are even better than the first. But beware, both Anne’s House of Dreams and Rilla of Ingleside—although definitely more Rilla of Ingleside—are real tear-jerkers, so I would be sure to have a box of tissues handy. Honestly, I’d have to say Rilla of Ingleside is probably my favorite of them all, but I have read each and every one at least three times since I purchased them.

You should pick up these books here!

3. Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm series by Eric Wiggin

        Another classic series I have read many times since I purchased them, and another book that many people do not know is actually part of a series. Although Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm is a classic that is fairly well known, not many people have ever even heard of Rebecca of the Brick House and Rebecca Returns to Sunnybrook. As I said about Anne, the later novels are even better than the first, and all are well worth reading. I haven’t read them recently—which makes me want to toss aside my blog to-read list so that I can re-read them once more—but I have so many great memories of all the times I read them, growing up and even after. This is another classic series that you absolutely must read.

You can pick up all the books in this series here!

4. The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare

        Although I’m not entirely sure that this is considered a classic by the rest of the world, I believe that it is. I read this book for school when I was in my early years of middle school, and I was a bit reluctant at first. A witch? Really? But as soon as I got within the first couple of chapters, I knew that this would be a novel I would love forever. And I still do. I have read it multiple times since then, and I know it will be something I will recommend to my future children.

Snatch up a copy of this book here!

5. The Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. Lewis

        All seven of these books are by far some of my favorite books of all time. C. S. Lewis is a genius. And The Magician’s Nephew, The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, The Horse and His Boy, Prince Caspian, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, The Silver Chair, and The Last Battle are perfect examples of classic, Biblical based literature. They are so, so good. I could read them over and over, even now, despite the fact that they are ‘children’s books’. The movies are wonderful as well, but there is nothing like reading through all the books of this series.

You can pick up all seven of these novels here!

6. The Little Women series by Louisa May Alcott

        Another classic series I have yet to get enough of. I have read all four of these books—Little Women, Good Wives, Little Men, and Jo’s Boys—many, many times, and I love them all dearly. Jo’s Boys is by far my favorite, but all of them really are wonderful novels. For those who are curious, the Little Women movie—the really, really good one with Christian Bale and Kirsten Dunst—is based on both Little Women and Good Wives. Anyway, all four of these are really good, and well worth reading.

You can purchase any of these books here!

7. Persuasion by Jane Austen

        Now is when I’m going to start to sound repetitive. Jane Austen is by far my favorite classic novelist, and I have loved everything I’ve read by her (which is all of her books except for one—the only one I don’t own). Persuasion is so, so good, but I cannot say that it is my favorite. I love each one I am going to list pretty much equally, although all for different reasons. The stories are wonderful, and Persuasion is just one of the sweetest stories I have ever read. I read it for the first time a couple of years ago and then read it again less than half a year later, just because I loved it so much, if that tells you anything.

You should check out this book here!

8. Emma by Jane Austen

        Emma is another wonderful example of Jane Austen’s books. Although it might be the longest of them all, it is really so, so good, and is another one I read, and then re-read, all within the span of about a year. Mr. Knightly is amazing, and the entire storyline is just heart-melting. I turn into a little puddle every time I so much as think of this novel. If you haven’t read it yet, you need to re-evaluate your life.

You can purchase a copy of this novel here!

9. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

        Pride and Prejudice is literally one of the best books I have ever read. And the movie…oh my word I melt just thinking about it. It is by far my favorite movie of all time. I cannot get enough of it and have seen it more than ten times. I’ve read the book quite a few times as well. It is just so, so good. I mean, beyond words good. Jane Austen hit it out of the park with this one (but then, doesn’t she always).

Pick up this book here!

10. Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

        Another movie that I absolutely love, this story is one of my favorites as well. While the movie is completely and utterly wonderful, the book is, in my opinion, even better. There are a few things that were left out of the movie that really make the story what it is, and I just really enjoyed reading it, all of the many times that I have. Although the multiple Mr. Dashwoods at the beginning can get a little confusing, once you get past the first chapter it is smooth sailing for a wonderful tale of hearts that are broken before love wins in the end.

You can purchase a copy of this book here!

        So, that’s my top ten list for the week! What are your favorite classics?

        Happy reading and happy Tuesday!

Linking up at Top Ten Tuesday, Bloggers Who Have Inspired Me, and Totally Terrific Tuesdays.

Top Ten Tuesday: Finished Series I Have Yet to Finish

        This week's topic is series we have yet to finish. Although it was difficult to narrow my list down to ten, I did it. Here they are!

The Unexpected Brides series by Melissa Jagears

        Although I have read the first two books in this series—A Bride for Keeps and A Bride in Store—and loved both of them, I have yet to pick up the third novel. Granted, it did only just come out a few months ago, but I have been dying to read it so it is fairly odd that I haven’t read it yet. Only there is a perfectly good—or bad depending on how you look at it—reason for that, I have been busy with life and the other books I have been reading for this blog. Fortunately, I am planning on reading A Bride at Last next month. Hopefully that will actually be accomplished.

The Gregory Sisters series by Lorna Seilstad

        This is another series that I have almost finished, but not quite. I have read When Love Calls and While Love Stirs, just not As Love Blooms. Since I really enjoyed the first two books of the series, I really should have read As Love Blooms by now. Once again, this blog keeps getting in the way (wink wink)! But I’m planning on reading it next month as well, so hopefully this series will be finished soon.

Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy by Kim Vogel Sawyer

        Despite my fear of sounding redundant, that is also the story with this series. I have finished both When Mercy Rains and When Grace Sings, but I have yet to pick up When Love Returns, though I have been dying to do so. I really, really loved this series, so I know I will finish it eventually, but so far as I know, the library doesn’t even have the third book yet. We’ll see if they do by November.

Texas Dreams series by Amanda Cabot

        I first started this series ages ago, when I got the first book—Paper Roses—for free on my nook, and I loved it. So I rushed to the library and borrowed the second novel—Scattered Petals—and absolutely loved that one as well. Why I have yet to finally read the third book is a mystery to be, but it is a problem that seriously needs to be fixed. If I loved the first two as much as I did, it’s logical to expect that I would enjoy Tomorrow’s Garden as well. Obviously I need to put it a little bit higher on my TBR list.

Wings of the Nightingale series by Sarah Sundin

        Just recently I read the first book in this series—With Every Letter—and I loved it so, so much. I got it for free on my nook and thought I would give it a try, and I absolutely fell for Sarah’s ‘World War’ themed romance novels. But, because I already had everything I was reading for the rest of the month planned out, I didn’t get around to reading the rest of the series, and even know I don’t even have it listed on my TBR blog list. Obviously there is something wrong with that picture.

Secrets of Crittenden County series by Shelley Shepard Gray

        Although I technically have finished this series—I read all three main books—I have yet to actually put this series to rest. You see, there are three books—Missing, The Search, and Found—but there is also a Christmas novel that was written to come after the three of them. I haven’t read the Christmas novel—Peace—yet, even though I absolutely loved this series. Why? Because my library refuses to carry it. And I much prefer having whole the whole series rather than just the last book, so I am reluctant to actually buy it for fear I will end up buying all of them even though I don’t have the funds to do so at the moment. So for now, this series will have to remain unfinished.

Weddings by Bella series by Janice Thompson

        Okay, it is not my fault that I haven’t finished this series yet. I loved, loved, loved these books, but I thought there were only three! I read Fools Rush In, Swinging on a Star, and It Had to Be You a couple of years ago, but until recently I had no idea there was a fourth book! And once again, I cannot find That’s Amore anywhere in my library. I am severely tempted to purchase these as well, but we shall see. Someway, somehow, I will finish this series, though.

A Katie Parker Production series by Jenny B. Jones

       I know, I know, I sound repetitive again, but I really didn’t know that Jenny was going to add a fourth book to this series! I absolutely loved In Between, On the Loose, and The Big Picture, so I know I would enjoy Can’t Let You Go as well. I just didn’t know that book existed until recently! I’ll get to it eventually, though. I wonder if my library has it…

September 11 series by Karen Kingsbury

        Unlike all the others, I do know why I haven’t finished this series. Although I love Karen Kingsbury and typically read anything she has written just because she wrote it, I doubt I will ever finish this series. Don’t worry, it isn’t because they aren’t good books. As a matter of fact, I enjoyed One Tuesday Morning. I just cannot bear to read it again, or read the ones that come after it, because they are just too sad and I don’t enjoy crying that much. Otherwise, this series wouldn’t even be on this list. But my compassionate heart makes it impossible for me to even consider finishing this series.

Southern Discomfort series by Tamara Leigh

        Last but not least is another series that I cannot wait to finish. Then why haven’t I, you ask? Honestly, I’m not exactly sure. Oh yes, I remember, because my TBR list is far too long! I read Leaving Carolina about a year ago when it was lent to me by a friend, and I fell in love with Tamara’s writing but then things came up and I got busy with my blog, and the rest of the series fell by the wayside. Hopefully I’ll get to it soon.

        How about you? What are some series you have yet to finish?

        Happy Tuesday!

Linking up at Top Ten Tuesday.

My Bookshelf: The Lost Heiress by Roseanna M. White

        Brook Eden has never known where she truly belongs. When her friend Justin uncovers the fact that she is possibly the missing heiress from Yorkshire, Brook leaves the sun of the Mediterranean to travel to the moors of the North Sea to the estate of her supposed family.

        The mystery of her mother’s death haunts her, and although her father is quick to accept her, the rest of the family and the servants of Whitby Park are not. Only when Brook’s life is threated do they draw close—but will their loyalty come too late to save Brook from the same threat that led to tragedy for her mother?

        As heir to a dukedom, Justin is no stranger to balancing responsibilities. When the matters of his estate force him far from Brook, the distance between them reveals that their friendship has grown into something much more. But how can their very different loyalties and responsibilities ever come together?

        And then for a second time, the heiress of Whitby Park is stolen away because of the very rare treasure in her possession—and those who can save her still aren’t sure who to trust.

        The Lost Heiress is the first book in Roseanna M. White’s Ladies of the Manor series, and is a novel that I had been anticipating for a very long time. Roseanna M. White is one of my all-time favorite authors, and her book Whispers from the Shadows is one of the best novels I have ever read, so I knew going in that I would enjoy The Lost Heiress. But, as all wonderful novels do, this book well exceeded all of my expectations, and made me melt into a little puddle far more times than I thought it would. The mystery and intrigue that filled this novel made it absolutely impossible to put down, and the romantic elements didn’t make it any easier. So many things went into the making of this story, and that made it all the better for the way that she tied up the ends and pulled off the perfect happily ever after.

        Brook Eden is such a great character! I love her wild spirit—the way she cannot be tamed—and I am inspired by her kindness and generosity. Despite the way she is treated, by both the staff and her new family, she never once treats them in an unkind manner. Rather, she continues to build a life for herself in her new home, even though it is so completely different from everything that she has known. Then there’s the mystery that comes calling. She really does stay pretty calm through it all, although she is obviously—and understandably—extremely scared. She handles it well though, especially those times you really see her wild spirit shine. You’ll figure out what I’m referring to when you read the book.

        Justin is perfection. For the most part. Obviously both he and Brook have their faults, especially when it comes to their growing relationship with one another, but when it comes down to it, Justin is there when she really needs him. And his fear for her safety—though he doesn’t do a great job of showing it—is just the cutest thing. He really does care for her—I mean he is her best friend and all—and that is made obvious through the way he finds her family and strives to keep her happy and safe. Plus his jealousy of any man who so much as looks at her is pretty much the cutest thing ever.

        Let me just take a minute to say, even though he isn’t mentioned on the back of the book, Lord Worthing is by far one of my favorite characters of all time. So that I don’t spoil anything for you, I won’t clarify what his place is in the story or what he means to Justin and/or Brook, but I just had to give him a little of the spotlight. He is just the sweetest thing! And his relationship with Christ is the type that people dream of having. He is constantly in tune with the Lord and His will, and he has a really godly character. He’s always doing for others and making me melt into little puddles, and I really was glad Roseanna wrote him into this story (and if my suspicions are correct, he is the hero of the second book, The Reluctant Duchess, which releases in April).

        Anyway, this book was so, so good! The historical aspects were impeccable, of course, and the story was flawlessly written. It was captivating, mysterious, and heartwarming, and I know I would read it again in a second. So I must give it all five bookshelves. It would be impossible not to, especially since it is now on my ‘favorite books of all time’ list. Roseanna hit this one out of the ballpark, and I cannot wait to see what the rest of the series has in store.

        Happy reading!

Linking up at Bloggers Who Have Inspired Me and TotallyTerrific Tuesday.

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.

You can purchase a copy of this gem here!

All credit for the italicized synopsis goes to Roseanna M. White and Bethany House Publishing.

My Bookshelf: The Chase by Kyle and Kelsey Kupecky—Plus a Giveaway

        Only God could have written a love story as beautiful as Kyle and Kelsey Kupecky’s. from their teenage days thousands of miles apart when they separately wrote letters to their future spouses, to a chance meeting backstage at a concert, their story brings inspiration and hope to every girl.

        It’s easy to get impatient for the future to play out, especially when it comes to love. Before long you find yourself chasing the perfect guy and trying to write out your own happily ever after. But the truth is, your best future won’t be found chasing boys—it’ll only come by first chasing God.

        In The Chase, Kyle and Kelsey take turns telling their story—with Kelsey sharing secrets to a Godly relationship and Kyle revealing the truth about what guys really think. Together they’ll show you how to put God first, protect your heart, deal with the loneliness and peer pressure that come along with purity, and see yourself as God does.

        Are you ready to trust God with your very own happily ever after? Let the chase begin!

        The Chase is a wonderful book all about trusting God with your happily ever after. As someone who has yet to find mine, this book was a big deal for me. Reading great advice about chasing God, staying away from unhealthy relationships, and always building your guy up were inspiring, and I loved the insight into how guys think. With chapters like “God First”, “The List”, “R-E-S-P-E-C-T”, and “Just Haven’t Met You Yet”, this book really did cover all of the bases, and it was full of examples of how things were done differently and how painful that was for the couples involved. I felt like that gave girls another reason to try their hardest to do things the right way, and I am sure it was super encouraging.

        Along with all of the great advice and ways to apply it to your life, I really enjoyed getting to learn all about Kyle and Kelsey’s story. They really do have a fairy-tale relationship, and it was super sweet to read about how much they love each other. I know you are not supposed to compare your relationship to anyone else’s, but I hope I have a fairy-tale too someday. They both really chased the Lord leading up to the day they met, and I don’t think their relationship would have worked out so well as it did, if they even started dating at all, if it weren’t for their dedication to Christ. It was inspiring to hear and actual success story, as it made it so much easier to believe that what they were advising was actually doable. And I also just love that they took on the project of writing a book like this.

        I cannot help but give The Chase all five bookshelves, because it is such a good book for girls, and women, who are waiting for their princes. It is sure to strengthen their relationships with the Lord, inspire them to wait until the right man chases them, and show them how to go about having a Christ-filled relationship with the man of their dreams. I applaud Kyle and Kelsey for a job well done, and cannot wait to see what the future holds for the both of them, especially when it comes to their ministry!

        And now for the giveaway! Today I am hosting my first ever giveaway in honor of The Chase! In fact, that’s what I’m giving away! So scroll on down and enter by doing the things in the Rafflecopter form below! Good luck and happy reading!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I received a copy of this book from the authors in exchange for my honest review.

Linking up at Let it Shine, Bloggers Who Have Inspired Me, and Totally Terrific Tuesdays.

All credit for the italicized synopsis goes to Kyle and Kelsey Kupecky and Revell Publishing.

My Bookshelf: A Noble Masquerade by Kristi Ann Hunter

        Lady Miranda Hawthorne acts every inch the lady, but inside she longs to be bold and carefree. Approaching spinsterhood in the eyes of society, she pours her innermost feelings out not in a diary but in letters to her brother’s old school friend, the Duke of Marshington. Since she’s never actually met the man, she has no intention of ever sending the letters and is mortified when her brother’s mysterious new valet, Marlow, mistakenly mails one of the letters to the unsuspecting duke.

        Shockingly, this breach of etiquette results in a reply from the duke that soon leads to a lively correspondence. Insecurity about her previous lack of suitors soon becomes confusion as Miranda finds herself equally intrigued by Marlow, a man she has come to depend upon but whose behavior grows more suspicious by the day. As the secret goings-on at her family’s estate come to light, one thing is certain: Miranda’s heart is far from all that’s at risk for the Hawthornes and those they love.

        A Noble Masquerade is the first book in Kristi Ann Hunter’s Hawthorne House series, although there is an e-novella that comes before it called A Lady of Esteem. In fact, A Lady of Esteem was what got me hooked on Kristi Ann’s writing. You see, A Noble Masquerade is her first full length novel. A little over a month ago, she published her novella as a free e-book, and I happened to stumble upon it. I’m all for free books, and the description made it sound like something right up my alley, so I downloaded it. Can I just say that was one of the best decisions I ever made? When I think of first-time authors, I do think talent, but I also know that they haven’t published anything, so they don’t have near as much experience as older authors do. Although they may have a great story and a wonderful writing style, they just haven’t been at it for long, so I don’t put my expectations too high. It will be a good book, I tell myself, but their later works will be better. That was not the case with Kristi Ann. Before I had even made it halfway through A Lady of Esteem, I knew she was a very talented author. By the time I started A Noble Masquerade, I was aware that her writing is better than many ‘more experienced’ authors, if only because she knows how to weave together a story. Obviously I need to let go of the stereotypes.

        Miranda Hawthorne is by far one of my favorite heroines. As a privileged woman of society, you would think she would be difficult to relate to, but that is far from the truth. Always pressured to be the perfect lady, Miranda feels that she must hide all of her feelings deep inside herself; her only release being in writing letters to her brother, Griffith’s, friend, the Duke of Marshington. Although she would never even consider sending them, just the thought that he would understand what she is going through serves to make her world a little better. With her sister’s upcoming debut into society, Miranda is more and more reminded of her own two failed seasons, in which she failed to procure a suitable husband. Reeling from that and her shocking attraction to Griffith’s new valet, Marlow, Miranda becomes careless with her letters, only to have one accidentally sent by Marlow. Trying to stay calm, Miranda assures herself that he most likely won’t even get it, as he’s been away from society for so long he probably isn’t even in his own home, but is shaken to the core when he not only reads her letter, but replies!

        The Duke of Marshington is another wonderful character. Although I cannot tell you much about his story, he is a recluse and all, I can tell you that he is by far one of the best heroes I have ever met. Daring and strong, he is not only a wonderful protector, but also has one of the biggest hearts I have ever seen in a man. Oh how I wish I could tell you all the reasons why I love him, but I will settle for telling you he is a wonderful example of a Christian gentleman. And he has a great sense of humor. I promise you, it won’t take you long to fall for him as well.

        Full of mystery and intrigue, love and romance, A Noble Masquerade is a captivating book that I couldn’t bear to put down. Set in nineteenth century England, this novel is full of interesting historical facts and perfect descriptions of all that 1812 held. Kristi Ann not only wrote a perfect historical, she wrote a heart-melting romance with inspiring Christian themes. I loved this book so much I have to give it all five bookshelves, and I know that I will be keeping my eye out for everything else Kristi Ann writes, especially the rest of the Hawthorne House series. I cannot wait to read about what happens to her three siblings, Griffith, Trent, and Georgina! I highly recommend this book, although I would advise you to read A Lady of Esteem first. It is such a sweet story, and it gives you a little insight into the Hawthornes. Keep an eye out for A Noble Masquerade, which releases in just three days!

        Happy reading!

You can preorder A Noble Masquerade or download A Lady of Esteem here.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

All credit for the italicized synopsis goes to Kristi Ann Hunter and Bethany House Publishers.

The Prayer Box by Lisa Wingate

These things I do, this melody of an ordinary day, keep the hours in order…Strange to think of that. The song of an ordinary life. Mine would be in these letters to you.

        When Iola Anne Poole, an old-timer on Hatteras Island, passes away in her bed at ninety-one, the struggling young mother in Iola’s rental cottage, Tandi Jo Reese, finds herself charged with the task of cleaning out Iola’s rambling Victorian house.

        Running from a messy, dangerous past, Tandi never expects to find more than a temporary hiding place within Iola’s walls, but everything changes with the discovery of eighty-one carefully decorated prayer boxes, one for each year, spanning from Iola’s youth to her last days. Hidden in the boxes is the story of a lifetime, written on random bits of paper—the hopes and wishes, fears and thoughts of an unassuming but complex woman passing through the seasons of an extraordinary, unsung life filled with lessons in faith, observations on love, and one final lesson that could change everything.

        The Prayer Box by Lisa Wingate is the first book in Lisa Wingate’s Carolina Heirlooms series. Up until this point, I hadn’t read anything by Lisa, but I am so glad I took a chance and picked up this book. It is such a sweet story of pain, heartbreak, and redemption, and it was impossible for me to put it down. I loved finding out bits and pieces of Iola’s story along with Tandi, and I really enjoyed how Tandi’s true character and past was revealed as she got deeper and deeper into Iola’s prayer boxes. And the way everything tied together; oh my word it was such a perfect ending. I couldn’t get enough of it.

        Let me tell you about Tandi for a second. After all that she had been through, I don’t really blame her for having such a mess of a life. Honestly, I felt so much compassion for her as all the details of her life came out into the open. Add that to the way she rallied herself on multiple occasions, and you cannot help but love her. As she learns more and more about Iola and her perspective changes, I found myself loving her more and more. Forget the fact that she was at least ten years older than me; I felt that if I lived on Hatteras (which would be wonderful actually) we would be the closest of friends.

        Iola was also a wonderful woman. Forget the fact that we don’t really see her as a main character, per se (that would be difficult since she’s not alive during 90 percent of this book), you experience enough of her story to really know her. As I learned more and more about her, I was amazed at how wonderful a woman she was! Her faith was so strong, despite all that she had to go through. And I love the prayer box idea. I almost want to start one. That may be in my near future.

        Oh, and I can’t forget about the love interest! Since he isn’t mentioned on the back cover, I won’t name any names so I don’t spoil it for you, but let me just say, he is such a sweet guy! And he’s so supportive of Tandi, no matter what she says or does, or what he learns about her past. I feel like he really related to her in a way, through his own painful past, even though their stories were totally different. And I just couldn’t help loving him more every minute. He really is such a sweetheart!

        Anyway, I really loved this book, and how touching its story was to me. Iola’s faith was an inspiration, and honestly, so was the faith of Mr. “Love Interest”. They both showed me things about how to have a wonderful relationship with God, and that was such a blessing to me. Since this book not only inspired me, but also was enjoyable and extremely well written, I cannot help but give it all five bookshelves. I know I will never forget this book, but rather will love it forever, and I cannot wait to read the other two in the series. Lisa really is an extremely talented writer, and I am looking forward to reading more of her works in the future!

        Happy reading!

You can purchase any of the books in the Carolina Heirlooms series here!
Linking up at Friday Favorites.

All credit for the italicized synopsis goes to Lisa Wingate and Tyndale House Publishers.

Currently—September

        It’s September! I am so ready for fall I can hardly stand it!!! Here’s what I’m currently up to…

        I’m currently reading multiple different things, so I’ll just mention all of them. First, I’m reading A Noble Masquerade by Kristi Ann Hunter. It is so, so good! This is her first full length novel, and it is absolutely wonderful! I read her e-novella as soon as it came out, and I loved it, so I knew she would be another one of my favorite authors. I was right.

        I’m also reading The Lost Heiress by Roseanna M. White. I had plans to read it after I finished A Noble Masquerade; the only reason I have already started it was because I didn’t have my other book with me. Let’s just say, I already absolutely love Roseanna’s work, so I knew going in that I would fall for this book. I’m only on page forty, and I already can’t get enough.

        Lastly, I’m reading The Chase by Kyle and Kelsey Kupecky. I’m almost done, and I’ve loved every bit of it. It is so great, and I love how they’re teaching girls, and women, to chase after God first, and then let the right man chase after them. Plus it’s just really sweet. I cannot wait to write my review and post my giveaway on Monday. Keep an eye out for that.

        I’m currently making the painting I’ve been working on for weeks and yet still haven’t finished. I’ve been pretty busy lately, so I have an excuse, but it’s still kind of sad. I haven’t even touched it in a while. I’m not even going to post a picture because it’s just too depressing.

        I’m currently pinning pretty much everything. I love just scrolling through my feed and seeing what everyone I follow has pinned. Many of them have the same taste as I do, so I can just scroll through and find tons of stuff to pin. Usually it’s book quotes and Disney stuff and clothes and rustic home décor. Oh, and lots of wedding dresses. Although, come to think of it, not so much lately. I guess that’s because I’ve already found my top two dresses. (By the way, I am NOT getting married. Not yet anyway. I just love weddings and dresses.)

        I’m currently anticipating the first college football game of the season! Tomorrow my Carolina Gamecocks are playing the University of North Carolina at six o’clock, and I’m super pumped. I am a HUGE football fan, so this is kind of a big deal. Football season is my favorite time of year (besides Christmas). I just love it, so, so much.

        I’m currently loving the books I’m reading (big shocker there). And ice cream. But I always love ice cream. At the moment, I don’t have a freezer though, so ice cream isn’t exactly easy to get (I can’t store it anywhere, sad face). Oh, and tomato soup. It’s just so good!

        That’s what I’m currently up to! September’s looking like it’s going to be a great month!

        Happy September!

Linking up at Anne in Residence.

Top Ten Tuesday: Characters I Just Didn’t Click With

Here are the top ten characters I didn't click with for this week's Top Ten Tuesday.

Elaine Schrock

        All in all, The Decision by Wanda E. Brunstetter was a book I really didn’t enjoy, so it wasn’t a surprise that I found I couldn’t at all relate to her main character. Elaine is extremely whiny throughout this book, and she never does accept the fact that others are there to help her. She has no reason why she would ever have to do anything all alone, and yet she turns away help every time it is offered, and then complains at all that is placed on her. Since she apparently really loved Jonah Miller, I never expected her to give him up the way she did, over and over, and with far less reluctance than any girl in love ever would.

Jonah Miller

        What kind of guy in love would ever let his girl go without fighting for her until he had nothing left to give? That made Jonah impossible to relate to: he just give Elaine up. And the turnaround was rather quick if you ask me. If I was in love, I would fight with everything in me until I got my guy back. Even if all I could do was pray that God would help him change his mind, I would do it.

Laura Woodfield

        The Brickmaker’s Bride by Judith Miller was another book I really didn’t love, and Laura Woodfield is part of the reason why. She constantly seemed sorry for herself, and she kept on with Winston despite the fact that they were obviously not meant to be together. She didn’t enjoy spending time with him, and yet she never broke of their relationship.

Mary Langton

        A Place in His Heart by Rebecca DeMarino fell a little flat for me, and I wouldn’t be surprised if part of the reason was because Mary was so hard to click with. She wasn’t unlikable or anything, but I just couldn’t relate to her, couldn’t get close enough to her to be her friend. Maybe it was just the repetitiveness of the book. I don’t know. All I know was that she is not one of my favorite characters.

Lenore Fulcher

        Steadfast Heart by Tracie Peterson was extremely difficult for me to like, and I know Lenore was a big part of the problem. Lenore was a flighty, somewhat insincere girl who seemed a bit boy crazy to me, if only for the fact that she ‘fell in love’ with Kolbien practically the day she met him. She seemed a bit fluffy-headed, and I just couldn’t find it in myself to like her.

Abrianna Cunningham

        Another character from Steadfast Heart, Abrianna was the type of girl you cannot help but dislike. Although she seemed sweet and innocent, her innocence was a bit much at times, making you feel like she had never been out in the world. She believes in everyone, no matter what they do, though she does still avoid them if they make her feel funny. But she eventually gives in and makes them her friend. I just don’t understand her at all.

        I know, that isn’t ten, but those are all of the ones I could come up with. I am sure there are more, but I just don’t remember some of the books I have read well enough to be sure if I really liked the characters or not (obviously I’m speaking of books I never really loved). Anyway, those are my authors I didn’t click with!

        Happy Tuesday!

Linking up at Top Ten Tuesday.

Must-Have September Releases & Link Up

The Chase

        Only God could have written a love story as beautiful as Kyle and Kelsey Kupecky’s. From their teenage days thousands of miles apart when they separately wrote letters to their future spouses, to a chance meeting backstage at a concert, their story brings inspiration and hope to every girl.

        It’s easy to get impatient for the future to play out, especially when it comes to love. Before long you find yourself chasing the perfect guy and trying to write your own happily ever after. But the truth is, your best future won’t be found chasing boys—it’ll only come by first chasing God.

        In The Chase, Kyle and Kelsey take turns telling their story—with Kelsey sharing secrets to a Godly relationship and Kyle revealing the truth about what guys really think. Together they’ll show you how to put God first, protect your heart, deal with the loneliness and peer pressure that come along with purity, and see yourself as God does.

        Are you ready to trust God with your very own happily ever after? Let the chase begin!

        I have been looking to this book for a very, very long time, and I’m so excited that it will finally be releasing tomorrow! I already have my copy and have finished a good bit of it at this point, and am super excited to share with you my thoughts about it in the next couple of days. I know this book is going to touch so many young women’s lives, so I really commend Kyle and Kelsey for writing it. Don’t forget, I am doing a giveaway of this book on September 7^th. Keep an eye out for your chance to win!

The Lopsided Christmas Cake

        Twin sisters Elma and Thelma Hochstetler have done everything together for their thirty-two years of life—including remaining unmarried. They inherited their grandparents’ house and general store, which will support them well. Now they will take on baking a cake for a Shipshewana charity event together.

        They are decent cooks, but they didn’t anticipate having to demonstrate the baking process on stage before their cake will be auctioned off. They panic, and Elma struggles to keep order while Thelma bumbles through the process with a smile. The pair end up being so entertaining that bachelor friends in attendance, Joseph Beechy and Delbert Gingerich, think it was all planned. Joseph, a shy harness maker, would like to meet Thelma and asks Delbert to bid on the sister’s cake.

        Could a lopsided Christmas cake be the key to opening the door to romance for one or more of the Hochstetler twins?

        I have long enjoyed Wanda. E Brunstetter’s Amish novels, so I am always on the lookout for something new from her. The Lopsided Christmas Cake sounds like a funny tale about two sisters known to get into a few scrapes, which I am sure will make for many laughs throughout the book. With such a cute plot, this one is sure to be a hit.

You can preorder a copy here.

Falling Like Snowflakes

Eden Martelli is too busy fleeing the clutches of danger to realize she’s running straight into the arms of new love.

        Speeding north through rural Maine, Eden Martelli wonders how it ever came to this—on the run, with her mute five-year-old son dozing fitfully in the passenger seat. But when a breakdown leaves them stranded in Summer Harbor, Eden has no choice but to stay put through Christmas…even though they have no place to lay their heads.

        Beau Callahan is a habitual problem-solver—for other people anyway. He left the sheriff’s department to take over the family Christmas tree farm, but he’s still haunted by the loss of his parents and struggling to handle his first Christmas season alone.

        When Eden shows up looking for work just as Beau’s feisty aunt gets out of the hospital, Beau thinks he’s finally caught a break. Eden is competent and dedicated—if a little guarded—and a knockout to boot. But, as he soon finds out, she also comes with a boatload of secrets.

        Eden’s been through too much to trust her heart to another man, but Beau is impossible to resist, and the feeling seems to be mutual. As Christmas Eve approaches, Eden’s past catches up to her.

        Beau will go to the ends of the earth to keep her safe. But who’s going to protect his heart from a woman who can’t seem to trust again?

        I have been a huge Denise Hunter fan ever since I first read her Chapel Springs series, so when I found out she would be doing a series about some of the people we met in her final Chapel Springs novel, when Ryan and Abby were in Summer Harbor, I was ecstatic. Especially as I read the descriptions for both Falling Like Snowflakes and the second novel—The Goodbye Bride—which releases next March. Both sound like they will live up to my already high expectations—Denise has yet to truly disappoint me—although I must confess I am looking forward to The Goodbye Bride just a tiny bit more. Either way, I am sure I will enjoy Falling Like Snowflakes very, very much, and I cannot wait to read it. Keep your eyes peeled for my review, because I’ve already preordered this gem and will be diving into it very soon!

You can preorder it—or The Goodbye Bride--for yourself here!

The Lost Heiress

        Brook Eden has never known where she truly belongs. When her friend Justin uncovers the fact that she is possibly the missing heiress from Yorkshire, Brook leaves the sun of the Mediterranean to travel to the moors of the North Sea to the estate of her supposed family.

        The mystery of her mother’s death haunts her, and although her father is quick to accept her, the rest of the family and the servants of Whitby Park are not only when Brook’s life is threated do they draw close—but will their loyalty come too late to save Brook from the same threat that led to tragedy for her mother?

        As heir to a dukedom, Justin is no stranger to balancing responsibilities. When the matters of his estate force him far from Brook, the distance between them reveals that their friendship has grown into something much more. But how can their very different loyalties and responsibilities ever come together?

        And then for a second time, the heiress of Whitby Park is stolen away because of the very rare treasure in her possession—and those who can save her still aren’t sure who to trust.

        I absolutely love Roseanna M. White. She is one of my all-time favorite authors, and for good reason, since her historicals are absolutely wonderful. Whispers from the Shadows—the second book in her Culper Ring series—is one of my all-time favorite novels. Like, top five favorite books, not just that list that has about a hundred. When I first read about this new series I got super excited—like jump up and down excited—and immediately put The Lost Heiress on my ‘books-to-preorder’ list (yes I have one of those). The Lost Heiress sounds full of mystery, secrets, intrigue, and love, which makes for the perfect combination. I am eagerly anticipating reading this book, so look out for my review of this one as well!

You can preorder a copy for yourself here!

The Mistress of Tall Acre

        The American Revolution is finally over and Sophie Menzies is starved for good news. When her closest neighbor, General Seamus Ogilvy finally comes home to Tall Acre, she hopes it is a sign of better days to come. But the general is now a widower with a small daughter in desperate need of a mother. Nearly destitute, Sophie agrees to marry Seamus and become the mistress of Tall Acre in what seems a safe and sensible arrangement. But when a woman from the general’s past returns without warning, the ties that bind this fledgling family together will be strained to the point of breaking. When all is said and done, who will be the rightful mistress of Tall Acre?

        Don’t you just love the cover for this novel? And the description; it makes The Mistress of Tall Acre sound like a book that is right up my alley, and sure to keep me engrossed from page one. I have only read one other novel by Laura Frantz—The Colonel’s Lady—but I absolutely loved it, and how perfect her military and 18^th century facts were. The story swept me away, and her impeccable facts and storyline made the book even better. Since I am sure The Mistress of Tall Acre will be just as well written, I cannot help but have it on my must-have list.

You can preorder a copy here!

A Noble Masquerade

        Lady Miranda Hawthorne acts every inch the lady, but inside she longs to be bold and carefree. Approaching spinsterhood in the eyes of society, she pours her innermost feelings out not in a diary but in letters to her brother’s old school friend, the Duke of Marshington. Since she’s never actually met the man she has no intention of ever sending the letters and is mortified when her brother’s mysterious new valet, Marlow, mistakenly mails one of the letters to the unsuspecting duke.

        Shockingly, this breach of etiquette results in a reply from the duke that soon leads to a lively correspondence. Insecurity about her previous lack of suitors soon becomes confusion as Miranda finds herself equally intrigued by Marlow, a man she has come to depend upon but whose behavior grows more suspicious by the day. As the secret goings-on at her family’s estate come to light, one thing is certain: Miranda’s heart is far from all that’s at risk for the Hawthornes and those they love.

        A Noble Masquerade, the first book in Kristi Ann Hunter’s Hawthorne House series, is Kristi Ann’s first full length novel, and I am absolutely dying to read it. Just a couple of months ago, she released the e-novella prequel to the series—A Lady of High Esteem—which got me started on her writing. A Lady of Esteem was absolutely wonderful, e-short or not, and I was delighted to find myself already totally and completely in love with the Hawthornes by the end of it. I cannot wait to learn more of them and their exploits, so be sure I will be reading A Noble Masquerade as soon as possible.

You can preorder a copy of A Noble Masquerade or pick up A Lady of Esteem here.

The Photograph

He studied the picture more closely, finding it curious that the young woman looked so boldly into the camera while wearing a white prayer Kapp shaped like a heart—the characteristic head covering for the Lancaster County Old Order Amish.

Why would a devout girl have her picture taken?

        When her sister Lily disappears only months after their widowed mother’s passing, Eva Esch fears she has been wooed away from the people. Yet Lily’s disappearance isn’t Eva’s only concern: she and her sisters must relocate once their older brother takes over the family farmhouse. Then Jed Stutzman, an Amish buggy maker from Ohio, shows up in Eden Valley with a photo of a Plain young woman. Eva feels powerfully drawn to the charming stranger—but the woman in the forbidden photograph is no stranger at all.

        I absolutely LOVE the description to this novel! It sounds utterly fascinating! And, since I have read all but a small handful of Beverly Lewis’s books, I know what I am getting into by putting The Photograph on my to-read list. Beverly’s Amish dramas never fail to disappoint, but rather tend to be so wonderful and intriguing many of them make it onto my all-time-favorites list. I am sure The Photograph will be no exception.

You can preorder a copy of it here!

A Reluctant Bride

She never wanted to marry. He hopes to make amends for past wrongs. Can love find a way to mend both of their hearts?

        Sadie Schrock swore she would never marry. All of her other Amish friends could court and marry—she was content to manage the family business and eventually take it over when her parents are ready to retire. But all of that changes when a reckless driver kills both of her parents and seriously injures her younger sister. With mounting hospital bills adding to the pile of debt her parents left behind, Sadie is left with no choice: she must marry. And not just any man—the man who saw her at her weakest and walked away.

        Aden knows what his brother did to Sadie years ago was inexcusable. And every day since that incident, Aden has lived with the guilt for not intervening sooner. When he is faced with the chance to protect Sadie once again, he can’t let her down—even if it means living with the scorn of the woman he loves for the rest of his life.

        Working alongside Aden at the store, Sadie realizes he isn’t the same boy who once betrayed her. Just when Sadie starts to let her guard down and perhaps develop feelings for her new husband, several dangerous secrets are revealed. Now everything Sadie has worked so hard to protect is threatened, and she must find a way to save her family—and herself.

        I love reading Amish-themed novels. Can you tell? And A Reluctant Bride sounds utterly fascinating, doesn’t it? Kathleen Fuller always does a wonderful job of weaving secrets into her stories in a way that makes it absolutely impossible for you to put down her books until you find out their resolution, and I am sure that A Reluctant Bride will be the same way. Besides, it just sounds like something I wouldn’t be able to keep from reading.

You can preorder a copy of it here!

The Sea Keeper’s Daughters

        Restaurant owner Whitney Monroe is desperate to save her business from a hostile takeover. The inheritance of a decaying Guilded Age hotel on North Carolina’s Outer Banks may provide just the ray of hope she needs. But things at the Excelsior are more complicated than they seem. Whitney’s estranged stepfather is entrenched on the third floor, and the downstairs tenants are determined to save the historic building. Searching through years of stored family heirlooms may be Whitney’s only hope of quick cash, but will the discovery of an old necklace and a Depression-era love story change everything?

        The Sea Keeper’s Daughters is the third book in Lisa Wingate’s Carolina Heirlooms series. Let me just say, I absolutely love Lisa’s writing. Although I have only read one of her books so far (I was trying to read both of the previous novels in this series but with my move it just didn’t quite happen), I have completely fallen in love with the way she weaves her stories together. Her writing appears effortless, and she does an amazing job of coming up with captivating storylines. I look forward to reading more of her writing in the future, starting with the rest of this series!

You can purchase any of the novels in this series here!

Last Chance Hero

What happens when your heart is intercepted before you even know it’s in play?

        The folks in Last Chance, New Mexico, could not be more pleased. Dr. Jessica MacLeod has opened an office right on Main Street and Andy Ryan, the best athlete the town ever produced, has come home from the NFL to coach the high school football team. Unfortunately, Dr. Jess immediately gets off on the wrong foot with this football-obsessed town when she admits that she’s never seen a football game, isn’t really interested in doing so, and in fact doesn’t know a first down from a goalpost.

        Despite having little in common, Jess and Andy find themselves drawn to each other. But when a disagreement over the future of an injured player puts them both on the defensive, it begins to look like this game is over…

        Last Chance Hero is the fourth book in Cathleen Armstrong’s A Place to Call Home series. Although I have not finished any of her novels yet, I have started the first book in this series—Welcome to Last Chance—and I have loved every bit of it so far. Cathleen does a great job of writing characters with hidden pasts and stories to tell that makes you fall in love with them and devour their story so you can find out everything about them and their future. I cannot wait to finish this series, so I know I will be picking up this novel very soon.

You can purchase all of the novels in this series here!

A Wedding at the Orange Blossom Inn

        Emma Keim was heartbroken when her husband, Sanford, passed away, leaving her to raise three young daughters alone. Though several years have passed, her relatives have made it no secret that they expect Emma to remain a widow, mourning Sanford indefinitely. But when she meets Jay Hilty—a handsome widower with three young sons of his own—Emma is delighted to have a new friend who understands her struggles. Still, she is dismayed that her family is so opposed to their friendship—and the idea of it ever become anything more. She honors her husband’s memory every day, but is she destined to be alone forever?

        Emma’s gentleness with Jay’s boys stirs something in his heart that’s been quiet for far too long. But when his oldest son becomes engaged to a local woman, suddenly Jay, Emma, and their children are swept up in wedding preparations. Witnessing his son’s joy, Jay wonders if it’s time for him to move forward, too, and find happiness again.

        Once again, love has come to Pinecraft. But can these two parties of four become a happy, healthy family of eight?

        A Wedding at the Orange Blossom in is the third book in Shelley Shepard Gray’s Amish Brides of Pinecraft series, and is another book I have been anticipating for a little while now. I recently read the first two books—The Promise of Palm Grove and The Proposal at Siesta Key—and I really enjoyed both of them. Shelley does an amazing job of writing cute Amish stories that captivate you and touch your heart. I cannot wait to read this next installment in this series!

You can purchase any of the novels in this series here!

When Love Returns

Riddled with doubt and lingering regrets, will Suzanne and Paul find strength in God to explore a second chance at love?

        It wasn’t easy to move back to the Old Order Mennonite community from which quiet, responsible Suzanne Zimmerman was shamefully sent away as a pregnant teen. Returning twenty years later to take care of her mother, Suzanne and Alexa—the daughter she raised as her own—have spent months rebuilding relationships with her family.

        Now, with the upcoming wedding of their biological daughter, Suzanne and Paul find themselves drawn to one another once again—but with new challenges to face. They have been single parents with painful pasts. Can Paul and Suzanne find the strength to rebuild the loving relationship that was torn apart by their teen pregnancy so long ago?

        Suzanne must also let go of Alexa as she heads back to Indianapolis to visit friends—and as her chance to find her birth parents. Leaving the bed-and-breakfast in Suzanne’s apprehensive hands, Alexa embarks on a journey that will certainly changer her life completely. Can mother and daughter trust God to restore all things in His timing?

        When Love Returns is the final book in Kim Vogel Sawyer’s Zimmerman Restoration Trilogy, coming after When Mercy Rains and When Grace Sings. I absolutely loved the first two novels in the series—I read both of them in just a couple of days—so I have been longing to read When Love Returns ever since I finished them. I cannot wait to get to the dramatic conclusion of the Zimmerman family’s story, so that I can finally know what happens to them all. I will be reviewing this one soon as well, just so long as I can get my hands on it before my calendar fills up!

You can preorder a copy here!

        So, those are the books I'm most looking forward to that release next month! I hope you'll link-up here with me! There's only one rule, please follow me on at least one platform, whether directly on the blog or on my social media! After that, just link-up a post about whatever it is you happen to be posting about at the moment. Although my post has to do with must-haves for the next month, and I would love to hear about your must-haves, I would love to read any of your posts, no matter what they are about. So, have at it! Link-up your post for the day, your last couple of posts or, if you're feeling adventurous, join me in posting about your must-haves. I'd love to read anything you'd like to share!

        Happy reading!


Linking up at Let it Shine, Bloggers Who Have Inspired Me, and Totally Terrific Tuesdays.

All credit for the italicized synopses goes to the authors and their publishers.