Title: No One to
Trust Author: Lynette
Eason Book blurb: Summer
Abernathy wakes up one morning to find her husband missing, three men in her
home intent on finding him, and the life she's been living based on a lie.
Which Kyle Abernathy did she marry? The computer programmer she met in line at
the bank? Or the one who was apparently using that image as a cover story?
The search for her husband--and answers--takes Summer ever deeper into a world
of organized crime where people are used one moment and discarded the next. And
with her deepest relationship of trust already shattered, Summer doesn't know
who to believe. Quick endorsement: Lynette’s
books are never a disappointment! This one was packed with action, suspense,
mystery, adventure, and romance. I couldn’t put it down! Link to review: http://austenitis.blogspot.com/2014/01/revell-blog-tour-no-one-to-trust.html
Author: Kim Vogel
Sawyer Genre: Life Series: Heart of
the Prairie Number in
series: 7th My rating
on a 1-10 scale: 8 Type: Fiction Number of
pages: 349 Time
period: 1800s Publisher
and price: Bethany House, $14.99 My overall
opinion: Sadly, this book didn’t grab me as much as some of Kim’s have. She’s
had some books (like Courting Miss Amsel)
that I’ve absolutely loved. This wasn’t one of them, but I don’t regret reading
it. For one thing, I absolutely loved the Alaskan setting! Right in the shadow
of Denali (aka Mt. McKinley). It was awesome – cause I’ve been there! All in
all, this was a good book, just didn’t grab me as much. Definitely worth my
one-time read though.
My rating on a 1-10
scale: 8…I think…see my review below. Genre: Life Primary actors: Russell
Crowe (the reason I watched it) and who else matters?! Length: Just over
two hours Based on: I think
there’s a book? At any rate, the main character was a real guy. Way back when. Time period: 1950s,
I believe Rating: PG-13 Year it came out: 2001 My overall opinion: I
didn’t really like this one and was gonna go for a lower rating, but then I
remembered – I didn’t dislike it. And despite these slight misgivings, it kept
me watching for the whole movie. Time flew. The plot is intricate, but not hard
to understand. You will empathize with this guy! It’s an amazing story. I can’t
say much, because you’ll be more interested if you don’t know what’s going on
(same as me), but this movie – watch it. It’s worth a view. Seeing Russell
Crowe here was a delight! Recommended for fans of his. Anyone looking for a
unique drama – try this!
Authors: Karen
Witemeyer, Mary Connealy, Regina Jennings, Carol Cox Genre: Romance Series: A Novella
Collection My rating
on a 1-10 scale: I’m going to rate each novella individually Type: Fiction Number of
pages: 379 Time
period: 1800s Publisher
and price: Bethany House, $14.99 My overall
opinion: This, as you have probably deduced by now, is a novella
collection. Four short stories by four wonderful authors! I decided the
simplest way to review this was to do each novella individually, so here we go.
A Cowboy
Unmatched by Karen Witemeyer – 9: The first words that came to mind as I
considered how to best describe this book were sweet, funny, creative, and
romantic! I loved seeing a character from some of Karen’s previous books. This
book was so enjoyable! A delight. An
Unforeseen Match by Regina Jennings – 8: Even the title in this one is a play
on words, since the heroine is partially blind! The characters were engaging
and the story was unique and enjoyable. Especially the hero was admirable. No Match
for Love by Carol Cox – 8.5: There was some great mystery in this,
masterfully presented for such a short story! It was a refreshing addition to
the romance. The characters were especially lovable here. Meeting
Her Match by Mary Connealy – 9: I really loved the humor in this one!
Definitely a unique story and unique characters. It made me laugh, and I always
love that! Quite a superb book. So good! All in all? This is a unique and delightful collection of short
romances by wonderful authors. If you’re already a fan of one (or more) of
these authors, I think you’ll definitely enjoy this collection! **Bethany House sent me a free copy of this book in return for my
honest review. I wasn’t required to review it positively, nor was I recompensed
for my review. All opinions are my own. **
Title: Glittering
Promises Author: Lisa T.
Bergren Book blurb: America’s
newest heiress must decide if her potential fortune is rationale enough to give
up her freedom and all that God is leading her toward. And when her
newly-discovered siblings are threatened with ruin, her quandary deepens. Then
as Cora nears Rome, more journalists are track the news story of the
decade—“Copper Cora,” the rags-to-riches girl—and want to know more about her
family and the men vying for her attention. Meanwhile, a charming Italian countess
decides that if Cora isn’t going to claim Will’s heart, she might just try... Quick endorsement: I
have loved so many of Lisa’s books – this one is no exception! It was a
stunning conclusion to the Grand Tour series. As I say in my review: “This book
is worth buying, worth owning, and worth reading again and again.” Link to review: http://austenitis.blogspot.com/2013/10/litfuse-blog-tour-glittering-promises.html
My rating on a 1-10
scale: 8.5 Genre: Action Series or set: James
Bond 007 Number in series: These
are awesome – you can watch them in any order. And they still work. :) Primary actors: Daniel
Craig (falling for this guy!), Judi Dench Length: A little
over two hours Time period: Present Rating: PG-13 Year it came out: 2006 My overall opinion: Ooooo.
So I started watching James Bond with Skyfall
and have now watched everything my library has. I really love Daniel Craig
and James Bond at large! This one had some lovely sets in Venice – absolutely
beautiful. There were also AMAZING sets at an airport and a construction site –
the whole chase at the construction site was one of my favorite scenes. Pretty
amazing! I also really enjoyed the soundtrack for this one. It was great. I’ve
never played poker (or whatever game it was they were using to gamble) so some
of that lingo went over my head – but I still managed to find this a great
movie. Like with all James Bond movies, be advised that there’s a little
objectionable content – look on IMDB for details. All in all though? Good
movie!
My rating on a 1-10
scale: I don’t even know. I’ve never not known what to rate something. Genre: Life Primary actors: Brad
Pitt, Cate Blanchett, Tilda Swinton Length: Almost
three hours! Time period: 1960s,
I guess, or that’s what I’m putting…anyone have a better answer? Rating: PG-13 Year it came out: 2008 My overall opinion: We
have a problem, y’all. I don’t know what I thought. Or what to rate it. Out of
something like 1000 reviews, I’ve never been flummoxed on what to rate
something – some were hard, but I always managed to come to a decision. Until
now. This movie was unlike anything I’ve ever seen, I guess. So here’s a random
collection of thoughts…
The concept is fascinating. A man who lives his life
backwards? Really neat. He starts old (though baby size) and slowly grows up
with a young boy’s inquisitive brain in an old man’s body. It was fascinating.
I do need to warn you that there are some rather objectionable elements in
here, so make sure that you read about it on IMDB before watching, just to make
sure.
Benjamin’s whole relationship with the girl…never mind, I’m
not even going to try to figure out what I thought. Cate Blanchett was awesome
as the girl, though! I really liked her – she did a great job.
The ending was so moving. I cried a lot. Which means the
producers did something right. Yeah. I guess the ending almost redeemed it –
no, more just improved it for me. It was really amazing.
All in all, I don’t know if I’d say I “liked” it, but I
certainly am glad I watched it and wouldn’t be opposed to watching it again
someday. Do I recommend it? I’m not sure. Some people would love it. Some
people wouldn’t. I can’t tell for you. I don’t even know what I thought. This
is really disconcerting. So yeah. I think I’ll just stop here. Have you seen
it, and if so, did you like it? And do you understand why I’m confused?
Author: Mesu
Andrews Genre: Life,
romance My rating
on a 1-10 scale: 8.5 high Type: Historical
fiction Number of
pages: 412 Time
period: 800s B. C. (Bible times) Publisher
and price: Revell, $14.99 My overall
opinion: Contrary to what you may assume from a precursory glance at the
title, this story is not focused on Jezebel (though she is certainly a player
in the grand scheme of things). Rather, this book concentrates on her
grand-daughter, Jehosheba. As you may have noticed, it’s got over 400 pages,
and each page has a lot of words – definitely full. Despite this, it’s never
boring! Mesu managed to absolutely pack this book with Biblically accurate
information, events, and people. She brings to life characters and stories that
may otherwise seem stuffy – but truly aren’t! The whole book has a realistic
feel and a gripping story. I could definitely identify with what Jehosheba
felt. It’s absolutely worth reading! I highly recommend it for those of you who
love Biblical fiction, or anyone looking for a creative and unique story set in
Bible times. **Revell sent me a free copy of this book for review. I wasn’t
required to post positively or paid in any way for this review. All opinions
are my own. **
Author: Janette
Oke and Laurel Oke Logan Genre: Life Series: Canadian
West Number in
series: 7th My rating
on a 1-10 scale: 8 Type: Fiction Number of
pages: 329 Time
period: 1800s Publisher
and price: Bethany House, $14.99 My overall
opinion: Janette Oke was one of my favorite authors many years ago when I
first started reading Christian romance, and she has remained an author whose
books I enjoy. So when the opportunity to review this one came up, I jumped at
it! While Goodreads categorizes this book as 7th in the Canadian
West series (and I copied that), it could be read as a stand-alone and it could
serve as a lovely beginning to a new series. That being said, I enjoyed seeing
(or at least hearing about) characters from some of Janette’s earlier series. The
end leaves it open for a sequel, most certainly! The story in this particular
book is almost predictable, but a few surprises make sure that it’s not quite.
A good read! Contrary to what you may think, it’s not primarily a romance, though
it has some romance within. It’s easy to enjoy. Heartwarming! Go here to learn more about Janette Oke: http://litfusegroup.com/author/joke **Litfuse sent me a free copy of this book for review. I wasn’t
required to post positively or paid in any way for this review. All opinions
are my own. **
Title: Head in
the Clouds Author: Karen
Witemeyer Book blurb: Adelaide
Proctor is a young woman with her head in the clouds, longing for a real-life
storybook hero to claim as her own. But when a husband-hunting debacle leaves
her humiliated, she interviews for a staid governess position on a central
Texas sheep ranch and vows to leave her romantic yearnings behind.
When Gideon Westcott left his privileged life in England to make a name for
himself in America's wool industry, he never expected to become a father
overnight. And five-year-old Isabella hasn't uttered a word since she lost her
mother. The unconventionality of the new governess concerns Gideon--and
intrigues him at the same time. But he can't afford distractions. He has a
ranch to run, a shearing to oversee, and a suspicious fence-cutting to
investigate.
When Isabella's uncle comes to claim the child--and her inheritance--Gideon and
Adelaide must work together to protect Isabella from the man's evil schemes.
And soon neither can deny their growing attraction. But after so many
heartbreaks, will Adelaide be willing to get her head out of the clouds and put
her heart on the line? Quick endorsement:
Confession: I’ve only read this book once so far and that was almost three
years ago. However, I loved it then – it made me laugh several times, and the
people were delightful! I did finally obtain my own copy via PaperBackSwap, and
am eagerly looking forward to re-reading this one someday. Great book! Link to review: http://austenitis.blogspot.com/2011/05/head-in-clouds.html
Title: Trinity Author: Ronie
Kendig Book blurb: A
year ago in Afghanistan, Green Beret Heath Daniel’s career was destroyed. Along
with his faith. Now he and his military war dog, Trinity, train other dogs and
their handlers. Though his passion is to be back in action, the medical
discharge has forced Heath—and Trinity—to the sidelines. Military intelligence
officer Darci Kintz is captured while secretly tracking the Taliban. Only one
dog can handle the extreme conditions to save her. Trinity. Only one man can
handle Trinity. Time is running out on the greatest—and most dangerous—mission
of their lives. Quick endorsement: While
this book didn’t grab me at first, by the time I was 100 pages in, I couldn’t
put it down. Modern war stories and/or dog stories aren’t usually my thing –
but this book caught and held me to the very end! SO worth your time. Link to review: http://austenitis.blogspot.com/2013/05/trinity-military-war-dog.html
My rating on a 1-10
scale: 9 Genre: Adventure,
superhero (he’s not technically, but he kinda is…) Series or set: Arrow Number in series: 1st Primary actors: Stephen
Amell, Katie Cassidy, David Ramsey, Willa Holland, Emily Bett Rickards Length: 972
minutes; 23 episodes Based on: The DC
Comic books Time period: Present Rating: TV-14 Year it came out: 2011-2012 My overall opinion: So.
Y’all. I’ve got a new favorite show to watch. And it’s this one. Wow is it
good! I don’t even know where to start! Oliver Queen is absolutely amazing.
Most episodes include a little of his present day story (in which he’s killing
bad guys in his hometown of Starling City) and a little of his back story (he
was stranded on an island for five years). It ties them together in a
fascinating way the whole way through. His sister Thea is a neat character. His
former girlfriend, Laurel, is also an interesting girl. We meet a variety of
other people through the episodes as well, good and bad. John Diggle is
Oliver’s body-guard turned friend, a delightful man – he’s awesome. And then there’s
Felicity Smoak. She’s my hands-down favorite character. Before I started this
show, I had a couple of friends tell me that I was rather similar to her. Then
I started the show and understood what they meant. We aren’t carbon copies of
each other, by any means (she’s so cool…I couldn’t be quite that cool) – but we
talk alike. And we’re both blonde. So she’s really super amazing and I love
her. All in all? There are occasionally a few objectionable things in this
show, but for the most part, I highly recommend it. I’ve already gotten into
Season 2 and it’s also amazing with some unexpected twists and turns. Watch
this, then watch that, then tell me what you think! :)
My rating on a 1-10
scale: 9 Genre: Action Series or set: James
Bond 007 Number in series: I
have no idea…and is it really a series? No. Not really. Cause I watched this
one and had never watched a James Bond film before, but caught on just fine. Primary actors: Daniel
Craig, Judi Dench Length: About two
hours Time period: Present Rating: PG-13 Year it came out: 2012 My overall opinion: So
I always knew I’d have to watch this someday, and now I finally brought it home
from the library, settled myself in one evening, and watched it. What an
enjoyable film – right up my alley of movies I enjoy! It was absolutely packed
with adventures, non-stop action, awesome sets, a large fire, mystery,
suspense, and so much more. I really enjoyed it, and definitely intend to watch
more James Bond films. Also, I really want a gun that recognizes my palm-print
and only shoots for me – ‘cause that’s just awesome. The scenes in that
abandoned city – okay, back up. Abandoned places kind of fascinate me, whether
they’re that city in Russia that was abandoned because of nuclear poisoning in
the air, or something like the one in this movie. I watched avidly through that
whole scene. This is a movie I’d be happy to watch again. Oh, and Adele. I’m
not a huge Adele fan, just in general, but her “Skyfall” song that’s used for
the (long) beginning credits is awesome and I really like it. Listen, even if
you haven’t seen the movie and don’t intend to. Be warned, there is some
language and occasional other objectionable things – check IMDB for a list. But.
This movie is pretty awesome!
Author: Lisa
Harris Genre: Suspense,
romance, adventure Series: Southern
Crimes Number in
series: 1st My rating
on a 1-10 scale: 8.5 Type: Fiction Number of
pages: 320 Time
period: Present Publisher
and price: Revell, $14.99 My overall
opinion: I was just randomly browsing at the library when I came across
this one. I had heard about it in the blogosphere when it came out in fall of
2013, so I decided to give it a try. Sure am glad I did! Lisa’s book is a
delight to read. She is definitely moving up in the wonderful world of
suspense! If you’ve enjoyed other Christian suspense books (by Irene Hannon,
Lynette Eason, etc), give her a shot. It was a great mystery, sweet romance,
and very good book. Funny thing: this book had for main characters two girls,
Tory and Avery. Now the weird thing for me is that I know two guys here at
school – with those exact names. Remembering that the book ones were girls was
tough! Ha, but yeah. All in all? A good book that I don’t hesitate to
recommend. Looking forward to the next one!
My rating on a 1-10
scale: 8.5 Genre: Period
drama, life, family Series or set: Downton
Abbey Number in series: 3rd Primary actors: Hugh
Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Laura Carmichael, Michelle Dockery, Maggie
Smith, Dan Stevens Length: Nine
episodes, with the last one being the two hour Christmas special Based on: Possibly
a real family? Time period: 1920s Rating: TV-14, I
think Year it came out: 2012 My overall opinion: I
enjoyed this! I ended up watching it all really quick – checked it out on an
impulse from the library on Friday afternoon, and watched it all before
returning it on Sunday morning. So yeah…I flew. But yes, it was good and I
greatly enjoyed getting to know everyone even better. Their highs were lovely,
their lows were sad, and I can say no more without spoilers, so I’ll stop. All
in all? Good series and I’m excited for Season 4!
Author: Kim Vogel
Sawyer Genre: Romance,
adventure My rating
on a 1-10 scale: 9 Type: Fiction Number of
pages: 344 Time
period: 1800s Publisher
and price: WaterBrook Press, $14.99 My overall
opinion: What a delightful book! My favorite part of it? The setting. A
chocolate factory is a primary factor in the story, and let me tell you –
chocolate factories are awesome, and this one is no exception. Just reading
about it made my mouth water more than once! This was such a sweet story (and
not just because of all the chocolate) and it’s sure to touch your heart like
it touched mine. Caroline was a heroine to love, and I certainly could identify
with her. Ollie too was a dear, quite a lovable hero. My only problem with him
was his name: Ollie is Oliver Hardy in Laurel
and Hardy to me and I could never quite take this Ollie seriously. ;) The
mystery was absolutely awesome and can I just say again – I really loved the
setting. This one is staying on my keeper shelf! **Blogging for Books sent me this book in return for my honest
review. I wasn’t paid in any other way, nor was I required to post positively.
All opinions are my own.**
Author: Julie
Klassen Genre: Romance My rating
on a 1-10 scale: 9 Type: Fiction Number of
pages: 424 Time
period: 1800s Publisher
and price: Bethany House, $14.99 My overall
opinion: Delightfully packed with mystery and romance! And one of the best
things is that all of this is set in a place reminiscent of Jane Austen or
Charlotte Bronte. And one special little touch…I checked on the back cover and
there was Pemberley, from the 1995 Pride
and Prejudice! That may or may not have made my day just a little bit. So
cool. Anyway, the heroine was sweet yet spicy – a delightful combination. And I
mentioned that it’s packed with mystery – you will have trouble putting this
book down! The words that Julie chose to use are perfect for the setting – I
was impressed. This book is all-around a delightful read that I recommend for
Regency lovers! **Bethany House Publishers sent me this book in return for my
honest review. All opinions and thoughts are my own. I was not recompensed for
this review, or forced to post positively.**
Title: Love at
Any Cost Author: Julie
Lessman Book blurb: Jilted
by a fortune hunter, cowgirl Cassidy McClare is a spunky Texas oil heiress
without a fortune who would just as soon hogtie a man as look at him. Hoping a
summer visit with her wealthy cousins in San Francisco will help her forget her
heartache, Cassidy travels west. But no sooner is she settled in beautiful
California than Jamie McKenna, a handsome pauper looking to marry well,
captures her heart. When Jamie discovers the woman he loves is poorer than he
is, Cassidy finds herself bucked by love a second time. Will Jamie discover
that money can't buy love after all? And can Cassidy ever learn to fully trust
her heart to a man?
With delectable descriptions and a romantic sensibility, bestselling author
Julie Lessman brings the Gilded Age to life in this sumptuous new series.
Readers will faithfully follow Lessman to the West Coast for more romance,
passion, and surprising revelations found in "Love at Any Cost." Quick endorsement: This
is a big book, but it flies by due to the delightful people within the pages!
The time period and location (Gilded Age San Francisco) just make it better.
This is a book I’ll read many times – give it a try! Link to review: http://austenitis.blogspot.com/2013/05/love-at-any-cost.html
Author: Julie
Lessman Genre: Romance,
life, family Series: Daughters
of Boston Number in
series: 3rd My rating
on a 1-10 scale: 8.5 high Type: Fiction Time
period: 1920s My overall
opinion: A sweet story! I really love the leading lady, Elizabeth – she’s
just a sweetheart through and through. And Brady! He is an upstanding young
man, and his great qualities shine through on every page. Julie did an amazing
job with that. He’s a hero to fall in love with. There was enough mystery in
here to keep me puzzled (which is more of a challenge than you might think).
But the conclusion was most decidedly satisfying and made me happy. As I’ve
mentioned in former reviews of other books by Julie, her books are more
passionate than most – though this was not her most passionate book. All in
all? This is a lovely book, sure to please!
