Five Fall Favorites — Day 5 — Indie-published

Y'all. Today has been the day I've been waiting for all week. Why? Because . . . it's time for INDIE PUBLISHED BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS! 

*clears throat* Yes, I'm excited for this. Because I love Indie published books. (Maybe because I'm indie published myself? xD SO lets get on with it. I'm to excited to keep talking any longer. Grab a nice warm blanket, take a seat by the hearth. We have a nice fire blazing there. And get ready for me to shove some books into your hands! ;) 

War Tears: Faith Potts 

No image yet because it's not published. xD

The Carnathan’s and the Anderson’s are two families leading ordinary lives in the small town of Cana, Virginia. But all is not as it seems. Overseas, Europe is engaged in a struggle for survival and every day the pressure is increased for America to enter the war on the allies’ side. When Pearl Harbor is bombed and the nation is thrust into the middle of World War Two, the men are called up to serve their country and both are immediately shipped overseas. Back home the wives are doing their part, but though they don't know it yet, their lives are about to be forever changed. When tragic news reaches the home front, they must rely on their faith in God to see them through the difficult days ahead as the world becomes engulfed in the horrific struggle. 

Y'all, my critique partner wrote this. And it's amazing. Seriously, one of my favorite WWII fiction books ever. And no, I'm not biased. xP The faith that was interwoven through the story, the beautiful truths from the Bible, the down to life characters. . . yeah. It was beautiful. I only have one problem with it. It's not published yet. *hint hint* Can I make myself anymore clear, Faith, dear? ;) You need to publish it. 

Home Fires of the Great War: Rebekah Morris 

Thirteen-year-old Maria Mitchell, known to all as Ria, and her friend Lydia have been assigned to write a report on a hero or heroine of the Great War (World War I) for a school project. Instead of picking some well known figure, the two friends decide to search for someone forgotten or unknown. When asked to help, Emma Mitchell, Ria's Mom, brings out old letters she and a cousin wrote during the war. The girls are sure the letters hold the key to their success of finding a forgotten hero! But will they? It that all that these letters bring to light? Join Ria and Lydia, Mrs. Mitchell, an old neighbor called Corporal, and others as they re-live the years of home life during the war.

This was so different then all the other WWI fiction that I've ever read and it made me want to read more! It was told between letters from two girls, instead of being told by men or nurses on the front lines. I loved the new look at it, and it was a sweet look at the war the rocked the world. The characters were so relatable, and I loved seeing all the different aspects of their lives. 

Recommended for anyone. 

The Lady of the Vineyard: Kellyn Roth 

Since her divorce, Adele Collier has pursued her own pleasure at the expense of her daughter. When her ex-husband suddenly reappears in their lives, Adele allows him to take Judy to France with him for the summer. The time apart leads her to realize her daughter is the light of her world, yet she's still not sure she's ready to give up her lifestyle.

Six-year-old Judy is more than happy to trade her mother's neglect for her father's adoring care. She loves his vineyard and wishes she could stay there forever ... but someday she must return to England and her mother. However, Judy isn't sure she can ever trust her mother again.

A novella set in pre-WW2 Europe, this sweet story is sure to delight lovers of light-hearted historical fiction.

First off, isn't that cover amazing?! I love it so much and need in in paperback. *adds to Christmas list* People buy all my books for me now, folks. Okay, not really. xD

This book  was a delightful read, and all the scenes were described so, so well! Literally, Kellyn knows how to write descriptions that make you feel as if you're standing there with the characters. Which makes the book all the more enjoyable! And it was historical fic, sooo . . . ;) I loved the characters, and the father-daughter talks were adorable! Recommended for all ages. ;) 

Ain't we got Fun: Emily Ann Putzke and Emily Chapman 

It was never much of an issue for Bess: living contentedly on her family's farm, despite the Depression which loomed around them. But when her older sister Georgiana takes off to New York City to make a fortune and help Papa out, feelings of adventure and wanderlust strike Bess at home. Through their lively letter correspondence, the sisters recount to one another their adventures, surprises, and heartaches, leaving little room for depression. For in a world of such wonder, ain't we got fun?

Y'all. It was set in Kansas. I had no choice but to love it. It was just an adorable, sweet summer read, with some deeper things woven into it. I loved the historical backdrop, and it was perfect for the book! Speaking of which.. I need a re-read of it. ;) The letters were perfect, and I loved how each girl had her own voice through the story! And the sister relationships were spot on. Just . . . adorable! 

Sweet Remembrance: Emily Ann Putzke  

In the despair of the Warsaw Ghetto, a young Jewish woman fights the Nazis with the only thing she has left—her memories.

Would you like to read a heartbreaking, beautiful tragedy that hurts you just as you realize how precious it is? Then read this. This is the kind of story that breaks you heart in two, yet at the same time, it holds a beautiful, precious hope. I'm really not sure how else to describe it. This dealt with a harsh subject. There's mot any way to get around that fact. Yet, there were small sparks that shone through the darkness of the ghetto. Because hope can be found, even if the darkest places. (One outright misuse of God's name by a German soldier) Recommended for ages 15+ 

Bonus: Martin Hospitality: Abigayle Claire 

Gemma Ebworthy is eighteen, pregnant, and alone. Now that she's been evicted, she finds herself sleeping in a barn, never dreaming that tomorrow could bring kindness of a life-changing magnitude. 
The Martins aren't a typical family—even for rural Kansas. With more kids than can be counted on one hand and a full-time farm, Gemma must make a lot of adjustments to fit in. But despite their many differences, Gemma finds herself drawn to this family and their radical Christian faith. 
When Gemma's past collides with her yet again, she must begin revealing her colorful history. With every detail Gemma concedes, she fears she will lose the Martins' trust and the stable environment she desires for herself and her unborn child. Just how far can the Martins' love and God's forgiveness go?

Another book set in Kansas! Want to make me instantly love a book? Set it in Kansas. xD
The characters were just as amazing as the setting! I really loved seeing Gemma grow throughout the course of the book. She was totally different at the end than she was at the beginning. Her journey was beautiful! And Farris! *squeals* He was adorable, 'kay? Like, he was the perfect little baby and I just wanted to hold and cuddle him! So yes. Recommended to pretty much everyone. ;)

Yes, these are all indi published. Yes, they are all favorites of mine. Yes, you need to go read them right now. ;) Tell me, have you read any of them? What is one of your favorite Indie-published books? Be sure and check out Rebekah's blog for another amazing post and more books! ;) And yes, I had six books again. *winces* Y'all don't mind, do you? 

Five Fall Favorites — Day 4 — Missionary

Hello all and welcome back? Wanna guess what room I am today?

That's right, the books room! And what's better then free books? ;) So I have a short story free for y'all today! Go here to pick up a free kindle copy of A Place Called Lonesome. 

And today the category is missionaries! Lots of good books today, so lets get started, shall we?

Return to the Hiding Place

Hans Poley 

Unspeakable faith in the face of Nazi persecution didn't come easily for 18-year-old Dutch student Hans Poley. But after months in hiding at Corrie ten Boom's home, Poley found an inner peace and freedom that defied even the Nazi peril. Composed of his wartime journals and letters, the book also includes exclusive photos documenting Poley's life in hiding.

Y'all. Y'all. So, we've all heard of "The Hiding Place", right? That was such a good book, but I didn't really understand a lot of it. Or at least, when I read it several years back I couldn't. But this book . . . wow. It was amazing. I loved it so, so much. It was so inspiring to see how someone my age was used by God to make such a difference at such a pivotal time in history. The courage, conviction and determination these young people had was unlike anything I'd heard of or seen before. And it was so challenging. This rates super high on my shelf as a favorite, and the movie is every bit as fascinating.  Recommended to everyone! 

Evidence not Seen: A Woman's Miraculous Faith in the jungles of WWII 

Darlene Deibler Rose

This is the true story of a young American missionary woman's courage and triumph of faith in the jungles of New Guinea and her four years in a notorious Japanese prison camp. Never to see her husband again, she was forced to sign a confession to a crime she did not commit and face the executioner's sword, only to be miraculously spared.

This book was one of the first ever that made me realize the horrors of WWII. And it was also one of the very first to ever make me cry. The raw emotion and depth in this story is simply amazing. The faith this women had, even when everything around her was falling apart, is unlike anything I'd ever seen.  I'd recommend it to anyone 13+ because there are torture scenes that get pretty intense.

Nate Saint: On a Wing and a Prayer 

"Seven-year-old Nate Saint peered wide-eyed over the cockpit of his older brother Sam's Challenger biplane. The eastern Pennsylvania countryside was spread out neatly below him like a fine tablecloth. Nate was determined to remember every moment of this first high-flying adventure."

Flying soon captured Nate's heart. His air service ministry to isolated missionaries put him on a path of destiny that would ultimately end with a final airplane flight with 4 missionary friends to the "Palm Beach" landing strip in the jungles of Ecuador.
The men's lives given that day not only opened a door to the gospel for the unreached "Acucas"; it has been said that possibly no single event of the twentieth century awakened more hearts to God's call to serve in missions.

Anything flying-related grabs my attention. It's also not too much of a secret that pilots, on a general scale, rate a bit higher on my 'good looking guys' list then anyone else. Buuuttttt . . . that's not why I read this book. ;) The story of the five missionaries has never failed to grab me in a way I don't fully understand. Maybe it was their sacrifice, or maybe it was their heart to share the gospel. They're inspiring. And this book was no different. Seeing how Nate grew up, what his goals were in life . . . sometimes it seems like such a waste that he died when he did. But praise God the story doesn't end with his death! If nothing else, this story is a reminder that God truly has a plan, even when we can't see it. And He brings beauty from what we can only see as disaster.

Detrich Bonehoffer: In the midst of Wickedness 

Born into a loving family, Dietrich Bonhoeffer pursued a life as a pastor, teacher, theologian -- and spy. He spoke out about the trouble in Germany when Adolph Hitler came to power, urging the Christian church to rescue disparaged people groups and resist Hitler's evil empire. 
Accused of being a troublemaker, Dietrich continued on fearlessly in the midst of wickedness. His work as a spy in the German resistance and participation in a plot to assassinate Hitler led to imprisonment and eventual execution. But the lesson of his life story remains: "Not to speak is to speak. Not to act is to act."

Yet another story of someone who gave their life for a cause higher then anything we can see. Dietrich will always be a hero of mine. The way he took s stand in the midst of wickedness is nothing short of inspiring. Yes, the end is sad. But ya know, when we get to eternity it's gonna be amazing to talk to these people and see how God had everything working as a part of His grand design.

Betty Greene: Wings to Serve

Betty Greene coaxed her Grumman seaplane to two thousand feet..... Suddenly, silence--total silence. The plane engine had stopped! Her passengers gasped, but Betty knew she must remain calm. They had only a slim chance for survival: the twisting jungle river below them.

As a young girl growing up on the shores of Lake Washington Betty Greene had two passions: a love for Christ and a love of flying. As a young World War ll WASP pilot, Betty dreamed of combining her two passions by using wings to serve God. Betty's dream became reality when she helped found the Mission Aviation Fellowship. Her faith-filled adventures and faithful service helped create what is today a global ministry that operates over eighty aircraft in nineteen countries.

I'm so overdue for a re-read of this. It was super interesting to read about a woman aviator, in a time when they weren't the norm. Betty was inspiring because, in so many ways, I could relate to her. She wanted to do something for God, but it took hard work and dedication to get there. Yet, the legacy she left behind . . . yeah, she's one of my heroines of the christian faith.

Hitler's Cross: The Revealing Story of How the Cross of Christ was Used as a symbol of the Nazi Agenda

Six million Jews...dead. The monstrosity of Adolph Hitler's 'Third Reich' remains a stunning chapter in the pages of history. Although the power by which he hypnotized an entire nation is legendary, one question in particular begs an answer: Where was the church of Christ? Seduced by the Satanic majesty of The Fuhrer, church leaders throughout Germany allowed the Swastika a prominent place alongside the Christian cross in their sanctuaries. Nationalistic pride replaced the call of God to purity, and with few exceptions, the German church looked away while Adolph Hitler implemented his 'Final Solution' to his Jewish problem. How did this happen? In Hitler's Cross, Erwin W. Lutzer examines the lessons that may be learned from studying the deception of the church: the dangers of confusing &quote;church and state,&quote; how the church lost its focus, the role of God in human tragedy, the parameters of Satan's freedom, the truth behind Hitler's hatred of the Jews, the faithfulness of God to His people who suffer for Him, the comparisons between Hitler's rise and the coming reign of the Antichrist, and America's hidden cross-her dangerous trends. Hitler's Cross is the story of a nation whose church forgot its primary call and discovered its failure too late.

One of the things I love about Pastor Lutzer's preaching and his writing is that he does not shy away from the truth. He doesn't mince words or try to make something easier to read, he says it how it is. It was fascinating and horrifying to see yet another side of Hitler and his Third Reich, yet the stories included of those who stood up against the Nazi regemine, as few as they may have been, was inspiring.  The chapters on suffering for Christ were convicting. In this day and age no one likes to talk about that. Yet, as Christians, we are called to "take up our cross and follow Him." The cross is suffering! It's enduring shame for His name. And if we back down, we are not worthy of the name of Christ. 

 If we become content to simply live our lives and not preach the gospel and be willing to suffer for it, the freedoms we have will be taken away till we have nothing left. The cross of Christ is the only thing that can lead to salvation; to revival. And it is worth suffering for!

One of my favorite quotes was; "Remember, God isn't interested in saving America. He's interested in saving Americans." 

Yes . . . if you counted correctly, that was six. I couldn't figure out which one to cut, so you got an extra. xP Have you read any of these, or any other books on these people? Which missionary is a favorite of yours? 

Be sure and pick up the free book for today, and go and check out Rebekah's blog for the giveaway and to get the links for the other posts!

Five Fall Favorites — Day 3 — Book Series

Welcome back for day three! 

Today we're going to go picking! We've got our bushel baskets all ready, so what do you say you grab one and follow me? There's some apple trees to the left, and a few plum trees have just started to ripen. Take your pick and we can enjoy some fruit while we discuss book series!

Adventures of the Northwoods: Lois Walfrid Johnson 

Not my image, found online. 

Best-selling novels set in the early 1900’s in Minnesota, northwest Wisconsin, and Michigan, these compelling, historically accurate stories attract reluctant, average, and gifted readers. Both boys and girls identify with characters who face danger and mystery while learning to deal with peer pressure, family relationships, and the need for unconditional love and forgiveness.

I can't remember a time when I hadn't read this series. I grew up with it, and I love it to pieces. Yes, some of the boy/girl attraction was a bit... laughable? xD But otherwise it was so good! It reminded me of Little House on the Prairie, with its own unique flavor. Also, Erik . . . yeah, he's still my favorite character and I love him to pieces. Anders is a close second. Those two are the best. I LOVE their friendship!

Recommended to everyone

Circle C Milestones: Susan Marlow 

Andrea Carter is back in a new series for ages 12 and up. More exciting adventures with an older, teen Andi, who is growing up in 1880s California. Will she realize her dream of helping run the Circle C ranch? Or does God have other plans for this plucky young woman? 

Follow Andi from age 14 to 18, as she gradually discovers that breaking wild horses is far easier than growing up . . . and falling in love.

This series holds a special place in my heart because it's the only one where I was the same age as the character in each book. As Andi went through different struggles, I was, too. Because of that, these books will always bring back fond memories of years gone by. (Wow, that's making me sound old. I'm only 19, promise!) Andi will forever be one of my favorite characters of fiction. Also, the last book . .  no spoilers for those who haven't read it, but it's my favorite the end ending was just... <3 <3

Songs in the Night: Jack Cavanough 

I don't like this pic... but I can't find another. xP

How much evil can one generation endure?
GERMANY, 1933-1989. Less than the span of a single lifetime. Yet during that time Christians in Germany faced the rise of Hitler, the repercussions of the unholy blitzkrieg of World War II, and Communism behind the Berlin Wall. Why didn’t they speak out? Many of them did. Arrests, labor camps, and executions drove them underground. Songs in the Night is their story.

When I first discovered these in our church library, I was a bit hesitant. Books written by guy authors seem to be a bit more edgy then I prefer. However, this was not the case with these books. It deals with Germany before, during, and after WWII started. I was biting my nails for so many chapters, and that theirs book, at one point, had me throwing it across the room. Does this author know how to put you in suspense! It's well worth everything he puts you through, though. If you like edge-of-your-seat books and WWII , definitely try these.

Recommended to anyone 15+ because these deal with subject such as racial purity (in the third Reich), murder, etc. All during WWII.

Secret of the Rose: Micheal Philips 

This series follows the heroine from the dark days as Germany enters WWII, through the cold war, all the way until the collapse of the iron curtain. 

This series didn't have a summery and so I wrote that up. It's awful, I know. Don't laugh. xD Anyway, these books. They were the series that really got me interested in WWII. I never would have picked them up had I not won one in a giveaway that a friend hosted. Well, they got me hooked and I've never looked back. ;)
Mr. Philips does have a lot more description then most war authors, so it can be slow at times. But it's well worth it to see how the story ends. He blends fact and fiction so well together that it makes it a treat to read again and again.

Recommended to anyone 13+

Hidden Masterpiece: Kristy Cambron

The Butterfly and the Violin

A mysterious painting breathes hope and beauty into the darkest corners of Auschwitz—and the loneliest hearts of Manhattan.

A Sparrow in Terezin

Bound together across time, two women will discover a powerful connection through one survivor’s story of hope in the darkest days of a war-torn world.

Wow. This series did something I hadn't seen before; it blended WWII and present day in a duel timeline. I enjoyed the WWII sections more then the present-day storyline, but it was beautifully done! The characters leaped off the page and made the story really come alive. The one main thing I remember about this series is the vividness of the word pictures. Mrs. Cambron takes you into the story. It does have more romance then any of the series' I've listed so far, so take that into consideration when you read it. ;)

And . . . those are my Five Fall Favorites for today! Have you read any of these series? What's a favorite series of yours? One that makes you think of your childhood? Anyone seeing a reoccurring theme in each post for far? xD

And . . . here's the giveaway for today! As well as the button to Rebekah's blog. Be sure and check out the other posts! 

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Fall Five Favorites — Day 2 — Clean Christian Romance

Anddd . . . it's day #2 of the five fall favorites party! So glad to see y'all back here!

Welcome to the fire! It's a bit chilly out, but that's okay. There's plenty of hot chocolate for everyone! How about you all take a mug and sit down and we'll look at some more books. Are you excited? I am! 

A Secret Courage: Tricia Goyer 

A Mystery Brought Them Together.
Will Secrets Destroy Their Love?

Dive into WWII history in this well-researched story of international intrigue, heartwarming romance, and profound courage.

American Emma Hanson is one of a dozen women sent to work in London as a cryptographer—decoding German secrets at the height of World War II. Her job as a member of the Women's Army Corps gives her a way to fight back against those who killed her brother. The only distraction she needs is a good book for the long nights of bombing that threaten her fragile peace.

Englishman William Brandt's mind is full of the secrets he knows and the spies he must keep tabs on to ensure the safety of the people and nation he loves. But there might just be room in his heart for a pretty WAC worker with a sweet spirit—and a curiosity that could threaten all his plans.

Emma's and William's paths cross in the aisle of a London bookstore as they reach for the same Agatha Christie novel. But such an innocent beginning could have deadly consequences...

This book was just a sweet, clean romance mystery. I super enjoyed it, and it was what I'd call a comfortable read. I sat down and read through it, savoring every moment. It did go a bit slow, but I think it fit the book perfectly!

Recommended to everyone (though girls would enjoy it more) There was a bit of romance . . . but it was all super sweet and clean. 

Left to Die: Ivy Rose

Lindy Greene’s life is perfect. Too perfect. But living as a missionary nurse, serving in a rural hospital in China, soon brings the disaster she fearfully anticipates. All of her well-thought-out plans for the future disintegrate after pulling a fatally ill, disfigured, abandoned child from a pile of trash. She doesn’t even like babies.

Nathan Thomas can’t find balance. College suited him just fine until his cash ran out, forcing him to the Chinese mission field with his parents. The chaotic atmosphere in China does little to relax his agitated mind, and the pretty blonde nurse at the clinic does nothing to help him focus.

The Chinese mission field isn’t for the faint of heart. Nathan wonders how he can survive his remaining time there, while Lindy struggles to help everyone she can. With different ideals pulling them in separate directions, there is one thing drawing them together: a tiny, sickly, crippled orphan who relies on them to stay alive.

Yes, I know this isn't "technically" a romance. But see, I wanted it somewhere during this week and this was the only place I could find open for it. and it does have one of the sweetest, cutest romance ever! I just loved this story of learning to trust God and taking the next right step in front of you -- even if you can't see any further ahead. 

Recommended for 12+, because it deals with child abandonment. 

The Methuselah Project: Rick Barry 

Nazi scientists started many experiments. One never ended. 

Roger Greene is a war hero. Raised in an orphanage, the only birthright he knows is the feeling that he was born to fly. Flying against the Axis Powers in World War II is everything he always dreamed--until the day he's shot down and lands in the hands of the enemy. 

When Allied bombs destroy both his prison and the mad genius experimenting on POWs, Roger survives. Within hours, his wounds miraculously heal, thanks to those experiments. The Methuselah Project is a success--but this ace is still not free. Seventy years later, Roger hasn't aged a day, but he has nearly gone insane. This isn't Captain America--just a lousy existence only made passable by a newfound faith. The Bible provides the only reliable anchor for Roger's sanity and his soul. When he finally escapes, there's no angelic promise or personal prophecy of deliverance, just confusion. It's 2015--and the world has become an unrecognizable place. 

Katherine Mueller--crack shot, genius, and real Southern Belle--offers to help him find his way home. Can he convince her of the truth of his crazy story? Can he continue to trust her when he finds out she works for the very organization he's trying to flee? 

Well, this was a wild adventure! The main theme of this wasn't romance, but it did have a romance thread woven through it. I mean, this had WWII, present day, and a terrorist plot. Did I say wild ride? xD It was cute and sweet and innocent, and the plot never slowed down a moment. Only caution I would have is there was one kiss that didn't really make any sense to me . . . in our copy it's been fixed with white out. ;)

Recommended for ages 13+ because of thematic elements and romance

Wildflowers of Terezin: Robert Elmer 

In Denmark's darkest days, is it duty, faith...or love?

A Danish Lutheran pastor’s complacent faith is stretched to the breaking point during World War II when he meets a young Jewish nurse Hanne Abrahamsen and becomes deeply involved in Resistance efforts to save Denmark’s Jews from the Nazi prison camp at Terezin, Czechoslovakia—also known as Theresienstadt.

Challenged by his evangelical brother and swayed by his own attraction to Hanne, Pastor Steffen abandons his formerly quiet, uninvolved life and hesitantly volunteers to help smuggle Denmark’s Jews out of the country before a Nazi roundup. Steffen finds that helping his Jewish neighbors is the most decent, spiritual thing he has ever done. As he actually does God’s work, rather than just talking about it, Steffen’s faith deepens and he takes greater risks in his sermons.


When things go terribly wrong and Hanne is sent to Terezin, Steffen finds his heart fully engaged. He undertakes protests and rescues that are more and more dangerous, never imagining where it will lead him, or the ultimate cost of his decision to get directly involved. 

Oh, I need a re-read of this! It was a super sweet, innocent romance, with nothing I would caution anyone about. Woven in throughout the story were timeless truths and a heartbreaking story from the Holocuast. 

Recommended to everyone. You all must read it, 'kay?

Interrupted: Rachel Coker 



Can love really heal all things? If Sam Carroll hadn't shown up, she might have been able to get to her mother in time. Instead, Allie Everly finds herself at a funeral, mourning the loss of her beloved mother. She is dealt another blow when, a few hours later, she is sent from Tennessee to Maine to become the daughter of Miss Beatrice Lovell, a prim woman with a faith Allie cannot accept. Poetry and letters written to her mother become the only things keeping Allie's heart from hardening completely. But then Sam arrives for the summer, and with him comes many confusing emotions, both toward him and the people around her. As World War II looms, Allie will be forced to decide whether hanging on to the past is worth losing her chance to be loved. 

This was just a sweet, cute, light read, that had some rather heavy themes. It took place with WWII in the backdrop, but it wasn't a huge part of the story. The romance was adorable, and completely clean and innocent. And beautiful. Reading this book was like coming home after being away for a long time. It's timeless.

Recommended to everyone

And that's it for today! Be sure and enter the giveaway, and check out Rebekah's post with allll the links. ;) Tell me, what are some of your favorite Romance books? Have you read any of these?

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Fall Five Favorites Party — Day 1 — Historical Fiction

*waves* Hello bookish friends! And welcome to the party! For those of you who may not know quite what this is . . . it's a party done by a whole bunch of bloggers, and hosted by the amazing Rebekah at Read Another Page. Each day we'll be talking about our favorite books in a certain genre, so come on in and join the fun!

You've stepped into the benches part of the park, which is just one of many places to be today! Come on and take a seat. Both benches sit just under some beautiful maple trees, and the leaves have started turning color. Doesn't it look like just the most beautiful place to sit with a good book?

The topic for today was biblical fiction . . . But I really hadn't read any. So I decided to do historical fiction instead! And seriously, y'all. Historical fiction takes up 95% of my reading.  Do you have any idea how hard it was to pick five favorites?!  I did my best . . . though one of them is a series. So y'all get two bonus books. ;)

Waves of Freedom series: Sarah Sundin 

During World War II, the Avery family finds adventure on the high seas, intrigue on the Home Front, and love where least expected. 

Ahh, yes. The series. The books that I discovered earlier this year . . . and ones that I hold very close to my heart. Yes, they are romance. And as many of you may know, I'm not a fan of romance. But these were so well done, and they focused on so much more then just the "romance" aspect of it. There were sibling relationships, personal struggles, and powerful christian truths woven throughout each book. One thing I loved was the it wasn't all sunshine and rainbows, where everything came out right in the end. They had to live with their choices, and Mrs. Sundin did a beautiful job of showing how Christ can use even our mistakes to bring forth beauty. Plus, there was an added element of mystery to this series, that made them all the more enjoyable. ;) 

I'd recommend these books to girls 16+

Sea of Glory: Ken Wales 

In 1943, the U.S.A.T. Dorchester was torpedoed by a German submarine en route to a top-secret radar installation in Greenland. The four Army chaplains on board were quite different from each other: a Methodist pastor, Jewish rabbi, Dutch Reformed minister, and Catholic priest. Yet in the terror following the attack by deadly U-boats, the chaplains united in a final sacrifice that transformed every survivor who saw it-and inspired one man to trade the bitterness of the past for the promise of the future.

I finished this book Saturday night, amid a vain effort to blink back the tears. A couple chapter from the end, I stopped trying. Why was it so powerful? Because this is a true story. It really happened. It was very interesting to see all the different backgrounds of faith each chaplain had, and how it effected their work. For all the minor theological differences they had, I truly believe all of them were born again Christians. The kind of strength they had . . . it was incredible. Honestly, I try not to write completely biased reviews, because I like to keep a balanced view on each book I read. However, on this book, there really wasn't any content warnings, and there was nothing I didn't like. So go read it. Right away. And then make everyone else around you read it, too. 

Just be sure you have the tissues handy.

Recommended for everyone

Resist: Emily Ann Putzke 

Munich, Germany 1942—Hans Scholl never intended to get his younger sister involved in an underground resistance. When Sophie Scholl finds out, she insists on joining Hans and his close friends in writing and distributing anti-Nazi leaflets entitled, The White Rose. The young university students call out to the German people, begging them to not allow their consciences to become dormant, but to resist their tyrannical leader and corrupt government. Hans knows the consequences for their actions—execution for committing high treason—but firm in his convictions, he’s prepared to lose his life for a righteous cause. Based on a true story, Hans, Sophie and all the members of The White Rose resistance will forever inspire and challenge us to do what is right in the midst of overwhelming evil.


This book is really good. This story really happened. These people really lived, and they were actually really treated this way. They believed in this cause, and they believed in it so strongly that they were willing to even give their lives if it came to that.
Reading this made me stop and think. What if we stood up for what we believe in, just as the characters in this book did? I mean, really. This book made me stop and take a look at my own life. Do I just ignore what is happening around me? Do I try to just blend in and not be seen? Do I cringe at the fact of being looked at as different? Am I willing to take a stand for what I believe in?
If you read this book, prepare to never look at the world in quite the same light again.

Recommended to anyone 15+ because of brief language

Brothers-in-Arms: Jack Lewis Baillot

Franz Kappel and Japhet Buchanan never expected their friendship to be tested by the Third Reich. Friends from early childhood, the boys form an inseparable, brotherly bond. Growing up in a little German village, they escape most of the struggles of war until the day Japhet is banished from school for being a Jew, and later has a rib broken when other village boys beat him up. Franz learns he is putting himself in danger for spending so much time with Japhet but continues to stand up for his Jewish friend even at the risk to himself. Th en one day their lives are shattered when they see first-hand that the price of being a Jew is dangerously high. 
With the war now on their doorsteps, Franz and Japhet come up with a desperate plan to save their families and get them out of Germany alive. Leaving behind the lives they've always known, they move into Berlin with nothing to protect them but forged papers and each other. Convinced their friendship can keep them going, the boys try and make a new life for themselves while trying to keep their true identities and Japhet's heritage a secret. Taking his best friend's safety upon himself, Franz joins the Nazis in an attempt to get valuable information. At the same time, Japhet joins the Jewish Resistance, neither friend telling the other of their new occupations.
With everyone in their world telling them a Nazi and a Jew can't be friends, it is only a matter of time before they believe all the lies themselves, until neither is certain if they are fighting against a race of people or fighting for their homeland. Somehow they have to survive the horrors of World War II, even when all of Germany seems to be against them.

This was a beautiful book that was oh, so sad. It showed the horrors and reality of war, and how it touched even the smallest places in Nazi Germany. Yet, it still had a thread of hope that comes only from knowing Christ.
Also, it was a beautiful story without any romance . . . and it had two brother-figure characters. Does it get any better then that?!

Recommended for ages 12/13+ because of a rather detailed torture scene

Blue Skies Tomorrow: Sarah Sundin 

When her husband becomes a casualty of the war in the Pacific, Helen Carlisle throws herself into volunteering for the war effort to conceal her feelings. But keeping up appearances as the grieving widow of a hometown hero is taking its toll. Soon something is going to give.

Lt. Raymond Novak prefers the pulpit to the cockpit. His stateside job training B-17 pilots allows him the luxury of a personal life--and a convenient excuse to ignore his deepest fear. When the beautiful Helen catches his eye and captures his heart, he is determined to win her hand.

But when Ray and Helen are called upon to step out in faith and put their reputations and their lives on the line, can they meet the challenges that face them? And can their young love survive until blue skies return?

This book was so sweet! I loved Ray and Helen, and the WWII backdrop was so well done! I loved Ray's story and journey so much. He was my favorite of the Novak brothers, so I was hoping his story would be good. It was. I never should have doubted Mrs. Sundin. Once again, she brought some pretty weighty subjects to the table, but she pulled them off with amazing realism. I love how she makes God a central theme of her stories. It adds so much to the enjoyment. 

Recommended to ages 16+ because of romance and elements of abuse 

Anddd . .  there you have it! My five favorite historical fiction books! Have you read any of them? 

Oh, and did I mention there's a giveaway? Because there is! Below is a place where you can enter it! And this is the grand prize... isn't it beautiful?! It includes . . .

• Signed copy of Dylan’s Story by Rebekah A. Morris

• Signed copy of Dandelion Dust by Faith Potts

• Signed copy of Kate’s Innocence by Sarah Holman

• Signed copy of The Twin Arrows by Kate Willis

• Signed copy of Journey to Love by Amanda Tero

• Coffee Nut M & M’s

• Packets of Apple Cider

• Cute Fall Mug

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 Be sure to check out Rebekah's blog and then tour some of the other stops in the party. I look forward to seeing you all back here tomorrow! 

Book review: Where Dandelions Grow

Hey all! Today I'm here as a part of the blog tour for Where Dandelions Grow by Lydia Howe. So, lets get on with it, shall we? ;)

About the book:  Cousins are forever, or at least they’re supposed to be. 

What happens when your world falls apart and your dreams are mocked by those closest to you?

Destiny’s idyllic childhood full of laughter and cousins abruptly ended when her mom uprooted the family to move them across the country with strict instructions to never talk about Swallow Ridge again. Eleven years later Destiny moves back to her hometown, determined to find her cousins… and answers.

Plagued by generations of bitterness and manipulation, Destiny hides her life-long goal - unwilling to let anyone else trample her fragile dreams. But life in the cozy town full of dandelions teaches Destiny there’s more to life than what she’s been taught.

Is it possible Swallow Ridge not only holds the answers Destiny so intensely searches for, but also the hope? 

My review: 3 stars
So, I loved the idea behind the story.  Cousin stories are far and few between, and I absolutely LOVE the fact that this was one of the main themes of the book.
Also, I loved the whole writing and bookishness. It was so perfect!

Unfortunately,  I couldn't connect with Destiny.  At all. Which made the story a bit "meh" to me, since she's the main character. I knew why she acted and made the decisions that she did,  however, I couldn't understand why for many of them.

I did so love Teal and Charlie and her dad, though!  Their family was just precious!

I also truggled with the whole Christianity theme of the book. I could never get a real feel for where Destiny was in her walk with God, so that was a bit frustrating. She seemed to rely on other to make the right choice, while never actually turning to God.

However, those put aside,  I enjoyed the story and would reccomend it to anyone who enjoys a good contemporary story!

Also, Swallow Ridge. I wanna live there.  Thats all.  XD

Hymns Through History - Be Still, My Soul

Hello all! Today is the first actual installment of Hymns Through History! I hope y'all are as excited as I am!

A Book, A Song

For those of you who have read A Question of Honor, you know that the hymn Be Still, My Soul plays a huge part in it. To the point where it seems like I must have planned out the book to go with the song, as someone said. But . .  I didn't. In fact, when I first plotted out the book, I had no plans to use any song. It wasn't until I got to a certain scene that I felt like there was something missing. I needed to add either a Bible verse or some such thing to give the scene the effect I was looking for. It was then that the words for the last verse of Be Still, My Soul came to mind, and I quickly jotted them down. I had no idea if I would keep it or not, but for the moment it did what I wanted.

Fast-forward to the completed draft. I decided that I really liked how the verse fit in with the story, and decided to keep it where it was. I had checked the date, and it was written in the 1800s, so it would be acceptable for my 1940's character to know it. But then...then I heard the entire song with four verses one day on the radio. See, I grew up singing three verses. And I had no idea that a fourth one even existed. But the words, y'all, to that one verse. I stopped what I was doing and quickly searched it online to be sure it was a verse that had been written by the original author, and not one that someone had added later.

It was.

And it was then that I realized my spur of the moment decision to include one verse in a small part of the story really hadn't been just my decision. Only God could have fit a song so well with a book.

Be Still, my soul, when dearest friends depart. And all is darkened in a veil of tears. Then you shall better know His love, His heart, who comes to soothe thy sorrow and thy fears. Be still, my soul. Thy Jesus can repay from His own fullness all He takes away. 

As my critique partner later said, it seemed as if the song had been written to go with the book. Or that my book had been written to go with the song. Neither were true. God had managed to fit the two together in a way that I never would have imagined. 

And Be Still, My Soul? Well, it now holds a very special place in my heart. ;) 

The History

(All information below written by Dr. Michael Hawn and taken from this website.) 

The formation of "Be Still, My Soul" as it appears in our hymnal covers three countries – Germany, Scotland, and Finland – and well over 100 years.

Little is known about the author of this hymn. Katharina Amalia Dorothea von Schlegel was born in 1697. The date of her death is unknown. As her name suggests, she may have come from an aristocratic family. Other than that she was connected with a small court at Köthen, north of Halle, in Germany, little is known of her life. Some hymnologists suggest that she may have become a Lutheran nun. We know her as the author of "Stille, mein Wille; dein Jesus hilft siegen" published in a collection entitled Neue Sammlung geistlicher Lieder (A new collection of spiritual songs) in 1752, one of several of her texts included there.

This text appears at the time of German pietism, similar in spirit in many regards to the Wesleyan revival in England of the same era. Philipp Jacob Spener (1635-1705) led the German pietistic movement. Though not a hymn writer himself, he inspired a revival in German hymnody characterized by faithfulness to Scripture, personal experience, and deep emotional expression. Katharina von Schlegel is thought to be the leading female hymn writer of this period.

The hymn comes to us via a translation by Jane L. Borthwick (1813-1897), a member of the Free Church of Scotland. Borthwick was second only to Catherine Winkworth (1827-1878) in bringing the riches of German hymn heritage to the English language. Her translation included five of the original six stanzas, appearing in Hymns from the Land of Luther, second series (1855).

The tune FINLANDIA complements this stirring poem wonderfully. The melody comes from a symphonic tone poem by Jean Sibelius (1865-1957) by the name of Finlandia, Op. 26. Sibelius wrote it as a patriotic offering in 1899 with a revision in 1900. This composition was performed as the final of seven pieces as the music to accompany a series of tableaus, each reflecting portions of Finnish history. Out of agitated and tumultuous opening music, symbolizing the struggles of the Finnish people, emerges the serenity of the hymn-like melody we know as FINLANDIA, symbolizing hope and resolution.

The Peace Celebrations of 1899 provided the political backdrop for the composition as well as a subtle protest by the composer against the rising censorship from Russia felt in the nearby Scandinavian countries. The censorship was so intense that the composition could not be programmed publically under its formal title Finlandia, as the Russian Empire would deem that too patriotic. In order to please the Russian censors, other titles were devised such as "Happy Feelings at the Awakening of Finnish Spring."

Finally, David Evans (1874-1948), a Welsh Oxford-trained organist-choirmaster and music professor, matched the translation with the tune for the Revised Church Hymnary (London, 1927). This pairing was brought to the United States when it was used in the Presbyterian Church, U.S.A. for The Hymnal (1933).

1. Be still, my soul: the Lord is on thy side.
   Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain.
   Leave to thy God to order and provide;
   In every change, He faithful will remain.
   Be still, my soul: thy best, thy heav’nly Friend
   Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.
2. Be still, my soul: thy God doth undertake
   To guide the future, as He has the past.
   Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;
   All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
   Be still, my soul: the waves and winds still know
   His voice Who ruled them while He dwelt below.
3. Be still, my soul: when dearest friends depart,
   And all is darkened in the vale of tears,
   Then shalt thou better know His love, His heart,
   Who comes to soothe thy sorrow and thy fears.
   Be still, my soul: thy Jesus can repay
   From His own fullness all He takes away.
4. Be still, my soul: the hour is hast’ning on
   When we shall be forever with the Lord.
   When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
   Sorrow forgot, love’s purest joys restored.
   Be still, my soul: when change and tears are past
   All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.
5. Be still, my soul: begin the song of praise
   On earth, believing, to Thy Lord on high;
   Acknowledge Him in all thy words and ways,
   So shall He view thee with a well-pleased eye.
   Be still, my soul: the Sun of life divine
   Through passing clouds shall but more brightly shine.
6. 
   

Hymns through History - Introduction

Hello all! I hope this blog post finds you well! Our week has been a bit crazy, but good nontheless. Also, I promise I will reply to comments this weekend. I've gotten a bit behind in that area. xP

Today brings us to the start of the new mini-blog series I mentioned last week. And, as y'all have probably guessed by now, it has something to do with hymns.

Hymns are very special to me. You see, I didn't grow up listening to contromporary christian music. And until I was around eleven, I didn't even know it existed. For me, songs were always, always either classical or hymns. My greatest dream when I was little was to be able to play the piano so I could play out of the hymnbook in church. To this day, piano hymns are my favorite kind of music to listen to...and play. (And yes, my dream came true and I have played hymns in church. ;) Seriously one of the highlights of my life.)

Nowadays I do often listen to contemporary music and enjoy it very much, yet the old hymns always inspire me like no other song ever will. There's just something about hearing the sweet, gentle strains of How Great though Art  drift through the autumn air, or singing Christ the Lord is Risen Today at church on Easter morning. Yes, maybe it's because of my upbringing that hymns will always be precious to me. Nearly every memory I have is connected, in some way, with a dear, old hymn.

Yet, I think it's more then that. Hymns have such a rich history. And the words, many times, are more thoughtful and reverant then most contemporary songs. (Don't start yelling at me, guys. I agree that some contemporary christian songs can be just as powerful. ;)) Our forerunners in the Christian faith often sang the same hymns as they went through persecution, or were faced with hardships in their own life. And still, more then a hundred years later, the same lyrics are speaking to my soul. That's amazing, guys. Sometimes there will be days when I'm having a hard time, and I just can't seem to get my mind to focus on Christ in the midst of things going on around me. And then a line from Be Still, My soul will come to mind. Other days, I struggle with feeling lonely, even though I'm surrounded by people who love me. And then What a Friend we have in Jesus will remind me that He's always right beside me.
In every hardship I've gone through in my life, I've had a hymn to encourage me. To get me through it.
And in every blessing, in every happy occasion, I can call to mind a hymn from that time of life as well.  After all, life in the summer doesn't get any better then driving down a country road with the windows down while you and your siblings sing I'll Fly away so loud you'd probably give a heart attack to anyone who heard you coming.

So, all that to say . . . because of my love for them, I've decided to do a mini blog series on hymns. More specifically, the hymns I've used in my books. Those of you who have read them know that I try to incorperate a hymn into each book in some way, shape, or form.  The reason is because I personally think that there come times when the gentle yet pointed lyrics of christian hymns can drive a point home more then any amount of explaining we could try and do.

Also, so often hymns seem to be labled "old fashioned" and looked down on by many people my age who I know, So I'd also like to show that hymns aren't just for older people--they're relevent in the lives of us younger teens and adults as well.

So what do you say, are you excited for the series? Worried about my sanity? xD Did you grow up listening to hymns, and, if so, what is your favorite hymn?

Never Forget

The thick smoke clung to everything, almost as though it had been pasted on. But it wasn't just smoke. Even though the attack had heppened hours ago, ash still rained down from the sky. Ash, and bits of white paper, floating down so gently you could almost close your eyes and envision a winter's snow storm. 

But to do so, you'd have to ignore the smell. It clung to everything, just as hard, if not harder then the grey mist. And as I wondered down the streets, still in shock from what had happened, one thing burned in my memory, every bit as strong as the fires that had consumed the towers. 

Our nation would never forget this day. Our nation couldn't forget this day. The moment we did, we would cease to be Americans. Because the very minute we forgot this day, the freedom we so loved and held dear would slip from our grasp.

It has often been said that it is the memories with teach us of the past, and inspire us to make the future a better place. And the day we let this horrible attack slip from our memory, we wouldn't be worhty to fight for freedom's cause. Because without remembering the horrors of the past, we become complacent to the future. I pray that we will never settle simply for peace. And that peace would never become so dear that it would be worth giving up the fight for freedom. 

Sixteen years have passed since that horrible attack on our Nation. At the time of that attack, I wasn't old enough to understand what was going on, or what was happening. But I do remember coming out of my room and seeing my parents on their knees in front of the T.V. as live footage of the attack made it's way across the nation. 

Life changed that day. Perhaps we didn't all realize it then, but our nation would never quite be the same 

We still fight for freedom, and for that I thank God. And every year, we still remember. Looking back isn't just a way to honor the memory of those who died, though to do so is fitting. Many died in that attack. Many died in the rescue operations. And many more were wounded as they risked their lives to pull people from the rubble. 

However, looking back also serves as an spark to ignite the passion of those who still love our freedom. For those who fight for it. That it may never, never happen again on our shores. In the land of the free, and the home of the brave.

May God bless America. And May God save America, and turn us as a nation back toward Him. 

On that day, 16 years ago, all eyes turned to heaven, seeking help from our Creator. We as a people need to not look across the aisle to politicians or political leaders to save us. We need to turn out eyes to heaven with the same earnestness that we had on 9/11. And when that happens, American will be strong. Because it isn't the people, or the documents that make us a mighty nation. It's the God we serve.

Always remember. Never forget. And never, never stop praying, 

A Summer to remember for always

Okay, so, somehow it just hit me that September is here. SEPTEMBER, Y'ALL! I honestly don't know where the time has gone. So, so much has happened. I fell like this was that one, last, delightful summer of childhood before adulthood comes knocking. It's been precious. Beautiful. And a summer I'll never forget.

I've learned many new things, and I've had to let go of the old and familiar. I've glimpsed new horizons, and been made aware of new dreams that I have. But most of all, God's been teaching me that His timing is always the best. And that hasn't exactly been an easy lesson to learn, but it's been the one that I needed to learn the most.

Our house has sold, and my family is currently in the process of finding another home. I graduated highschool, and am working toward entering college next year. And I've also gotten very behind on blogging. Which I do apologize for!

And that brings me to my next point. (Did I even have points? This was more like a ramble of what's been going on lately...xP)

After a rather long, sorta unplanned blogging break, I'm back! During the weeks I've been away, I've gotten many new ideas and inspiration for blogging, and I can't wait to share it with you all! First off, the nest couple weeks I'm going to be doing a small blog series on a topic that is very near and dear to me, both in my writing and in my everyday life. So I'm excited about that, and hopefully you  are, too! And then near the beginning of October, I've got a bit of a surprise for y'all.

On the writing front... things have been going well! A Question of Courage has been gone over by beta-readers, and I'm about ready to start the next edit before sending it to an editor. . . and then from there I'll give it one last edit, and then it's on to a proof copy! The release date for it, as of now, is November 3rd. I'm still hoping for that, but we'll see. I've gotten a bit further behind then I would have liked with it.
Also, As in Olden Days the Christmas Prequel to A Question of Honor that I wrote last year, is going to be published as an eBook and special edition paperback on October 10th. So yes, I haven't totally abandoned writing while I've been gone. ;)

And...I think that's all for right now. Thank you guys so much for bearing with me in the craziness of life these past few months. I'm so looking forward to being more active in the blogging world again!

God bless, and I hope your summer was every bit as memorable as possible. :)

Top Five Favorite Summer Books

*waves* Hello, all! Long time no see, ehh? Yes, I know, it's been a while since I posted. It's been even longer since I updated y'all on anything life/writing wise. And I wish I could say that I'm back for good, but...life is still crazy and so it'll most likely be a couple more weeks before I get back into a posting schedule. I do have some fun things planned for when I return, though! ;) As well as a huge update post. So be prepared.

Today I'm posting as a part of Victoria's blog party! It's quite epic and has some amazing giveaways going on, so be sure and check it out!
The topic for today was books, so I'm posting a list of my top five favorite summer books. Some of these I've read this summer, others are just summer-y books that I love reading during the summer. ^_^

1.) A Secret Courage by Tricia Goyer

Ahh, guys! This book was just so sweet! It was a light, yet surprisingly deep read. It kept my attention and I never wanted to set it down. It's WWII and takes place in England. It deals with spies rather than soldiers and battlefields, yet it's still just as real.


2.) Chasing Jupiter by Rachel Coker

Now just try and tell me that the cover and title don't just scream 'summer'! It's such a beautiful, yet sad story. It's the kind that reminds you just how summer, one summer, will change everything. So treasure every moment you have.



3.) Old-Fashioned by Rene Gutteridge

I haven't seen the movie that this is based off of, but the book is lovely. It's sweet and simple, and it deals with the 'old-fashioned' look at realtionships, and it's just beautiful. Most of it takes place in the fall, but I think it's a perfectly beautiful late summer/early fall read. And both of those are my favorite seasons, sooo... ;) I'm almost finished with it, and while I'm sad for it to end, I know it's a book I'll want to read again sometime. My only caution is that it does deal with some more mature content, so I wouldn't reccomend it to anyone under 16.


4.) This Quite Sky by Joanna Bischof

Oh my goodness, people. This book. It reminds me so much of Chasing Jupiter. The way it's written, the way it shows change... it's just beautiful. Heartbreaking, but in a sweet and precious way, if that's even possible. It's will break your heart into a million pieces, but do it in such a way that you don't even mind. It's precious, y'all.
It is a bit more on the romance side than I normally prefer, but it's still all sweet and innocent. However, it's another book I wouldn't reccomend to people under 16.


5.) Dandelion Dust by Faith Potts

*sighs* Don't all these books have the most fabulous covers? I have three on my shelf and I must get the others soon. ^_^
This was a beautiful story that takes place as summer draws to a close. For some reason, books dealing with summer, change, and new roads in life have meant a lot to me this year. Probably because I've been going through some of it as of late. :) This is a sweet book about realationships, testing, and how God is indeed in control of every ascpect of our lives, even when we may not see it. It's one I'd reccomend for all ages.

And... I know, I've already listed five. But I'm adding this one because it probably doesn't really count. I mean, it's a book I've written. BUT. I wrote it this spring, and I've re-read it countless times this summer. Editing and all. ;) But it holds a special place in my heart. I think so far it's my favorite book that I've ever written. A lot of it takes place during the summer, and I just love the characters so much. A lot of the struggles and growth they go through were things I was experiencing at the time I was writing it. So yes. It'd be #6 of my favorite summer books. ;)

Annddd I think that about wraps up the post for today. Be sure to head over to Victoria's blog for an AWESOME giveaway she's hosting for the party! :D
(click picture for link)