Aug 082013
 

anunlikelymatchAn Unlikely Match

Author: Sarah M. Eden

Publisher: Covenant Communications

Published Date: October 2012

Softcover/Kindle/DB ebook/CD: 184 pages

Genre: Regency Romance

ISBN# 978-1-60861-566-7

Reviewed by: Shanda

FTC FYI: free review copy in exchange for an honest review

Summary

The future has never looked brighter for once penniless Nickolas Pritchard. Now in possession of an unforeseen legacy from a distant cousin, he can finally woo the exquisite Miss Castleton, belle of the London Season. What better setting for matchmaking than Ty Mynydd, his ancestral home nestled in the untamed hills of Wales? Ideal, indeed … except for the ghost.

For nearly four hundred years, Gwen has walked the halls of the home in which she lived—and died a mysterious death. But despite centuries as the reigning force within her ancient residence, nothing prepares her for the charm and unexpected appeal of Englishman Nickolas.

A deep and abiding affection grows between the two, tempered by the unbreakable barrier that separates them. They cannot possibly hope for a happily ever after. there can be no future between a man yet living and a woman long dead.

But how can Nickolas possibly give Gwen up? And how can Gwen face an eternity without Nickolas?

Review

It takes particular talent to present a situation as improbable as the one in this book and turn it into a believable and endearing romance. Luckily for us readers, Sarah possesses the skill to do just that.

An Unlikely Match has a paranormal element that sets it apart from Sarah’s other books and shows off her flexibility. I was actually a little nervous about it, because it was different from her other books (with a ghost as a main character), but as I began to read I was soon reassured that I would not be disappointed.

Another thing that makes An Unlikely Match different from Sarah’s other books is that it is set in Wales, which is perfect for the more superstitious elements of the story. It’s a bit spooky, with a few scarier moments and a more intense ending than her other books. Sarah is great at writing suspense, which doesn’t surprise me at all.

Though the list of characters is limited to a small house party, there is enough variety among them to cover everything from a beautiful young woman who was the most popular of the Season to an older gentlemen who fancies himself quite the ghost hunter, and a young Welsh vicar who is friendly with a ghost to a tell-it-like-it-is housekeeper.

I really like Nickolas and his friends, Dafydd and Griffith. Gwen is an intriguing character with a tragic history. The way Sarah directs the unfolding of Gwen’s story is excellent. There is a different, more poignant longing between the two main characters because they can’t physically touch. I wondered the entire time how things could possibly work out between them.

I found the ending incredibly romantic. The description during the culmination of events is outstanding. I could envision everything that was happening clearly in my head, like a movie.

This is a good book to read during October, in the spirit of Halloween and Nos Galan Gaeaf (a traditional Welsh holiday that plays a part in the book), but don’t wait until then to read it if you haven’t yet. It is signature Sarah–good, clean Regency romance with well-written characters and a healthy dose of wit.

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Aug 062013
 

glimmerofhopeGlimmer of Hope

Author: Sarah M. Eden

Publisher: Covenant Communications

Published Date: June 2013

Softcover/Kindle/DB ebook/CD: 208 pages

Genre: Regency Romance

ISBN# 978-1621084655

Reviewed by: Shanda

FTC FYI: free temporary digital review copy in exchange for an honest review

Summary

Stunning Miranda Harford once had the world at her feet. She was young, carefree, and desperately in love. But when her new husband left for London without her, her world fell apart. Devastated by his abandonment, Miranda fled their home, taking residence at her husband’s rarely visited countryside estate. For three years, she lived alone. But now, as the holidays draw near, an unexpected visitor arrives . . .

Carter Alexander Harford, Seventh Viscount Devereaux, is a man driven to succeed. His work is his life, and the position of Prime Minister of England is within reach. But in truth, Carter is a man haunted by lost love. Estranged from his beautiful wife, Carter is shocked to find Miranda—the woman he’d loved and who he believes has left him—in residence at his country home.

As plans for a holiday party move forward, the uneasy couple realizes that to avoid further scandal, they must keep up appearances in a charade of marital happiness. Thrust together by fate, it quickly becomes clear that they have both been living beneath a conspired cloud of misunderstanding. As family, career, and social pressures threaten to keep them apart, can love have even a glimmer of hope?

Review

Glimmer of Hope is a bittersweet yet tender love story of two people, united once in love and marriage, separated by misunderstandings and the selfish deception of others.

Sometimes I start a book during a break intending to read just a few chapters but end up getting so caught up in the book that I must finish it. Sarah’s books are always like that for me. I know once I start reading I won’t want to put it down.

I loved the loyalty Miranda inspired in all who knew her at Clifton Manor. I appreciated how Carter, despite still being angry at what he saw as Miranda’s “abandoning” their marriage, noticed that his heart was still affected by her and softened enough to want to try to build at least a friendship with her.

While a good conversation could have clarified the situation between Carter and Miranda, pride, stubbornness, and Miranda’s weakened constitution prevented it. This isn’t difficult to believe, considering how often, in reality, the same things get in the way of solving relationship issues in almost everybody’s lives.

I didn’t mind that I figured out well ahead of time what had kept them apart because I was more interested in how it would all be revealed and what Carter’s reaction would be when he discovered what had happened. I was not disappointed. Carter’s tenderness toward Miranda and his reaction upon discovering the deceit surrounding him was just what I was expecting.

Sarah’s writing is excellent, effectively pulling me into the story and the emotion of the moment. My heart ached for what had been lost and hoped for what was to come.

Sarah is one of those few author’s whose books I do not hesitate to purchase even before reading them. I have yet to read one of her books that I haven’t loved. While Glimmer of Hope has a slightly different feel than some of her other books, a bit more serious rather than light and humorous, it was no less enjoyable than the others. As always, I happily recommend Sarah’s books to anyone who likes a clean, well-written romance.

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Aug 052013
 

dropsofgoldDrops of Gold

Author: Sarah M. Eden

Publisher: Covenant Communications

Published Date: January 2013

Softcover/Kindle/DB ebook/CD: 192 pages

Genre: Regency Romance

ISBN# 978-1-60861-569-8

Reviewed by: Shanda

FTC FYI: I purchased my own copy with my own money and followed Sarah around until she signed it. (I’m kidding. About the following Sarah around part. I did buy my own copy. And Sarah did sign it. Because she’s awesome like that.)

Summary

When her father dies and leaves her completely destitute, Marion can think of only one thing to do–make a new life for herself. Commencing a life of duplicity, Marion transforms herself into Mary Wood–governess. In possession of a forged letter of recommendation and cloaked in the anonymity of her new identity, she enters a life of self-imposed servitude as teacher and caretaker of young Miss Caroline Jonquil of Farland Meadows. Her idyllic daydream vision of life at the Meadows is dashed when she finds a child desperately in need of hope and a cold and sorrowful home haunted by the past. With her characteristic sunny disposition, Marion casts her spell upon the household and slowly brings to life the long-forgotten joy of those within.

Layton Jonquil is a man tormented by the lies surrounding the death of his late wife, but he cannot deny his growing attraction for the beautiful governess whose goodness and optimism have touched his dormant heart. Their connection grows ever stronger, and despite the impropriety of harboring feelings for a servant, Layton’s heart whispers that this is the woman he’s destined to love. But when Layton’s fears about the past become too much to bear and the falsehoods in which they are entangled threaten to shatter his and Marion’s blossoming attachment, will true love conquer all?

Review

Drops of Gold is another Sarah M. Eden masterpiece. It is a thoroughly enjoyable read that I would have finished in one sitting if my body didn’t insist on sleeping at night.

I liked both Layton and Marion. Layton is a good father to Caroline as far as he is able through his grief and struggle, but not a particularly friendly person, even with his brothers. When faced with a very difficult situation, Marion doesn’t hesitate to do what is necessary to get by with as much dignity as she can. Despite her desperate and lonely circumstances, she retains a cheerful disposition and doesn’t hesitate to show love and understanding to others whenever possible. I liked Marion’s stories and the glimpses into her history and character they provided. Caroline is cute, if a bit mature for a four-year-old, though as an only child in that time period it is entirely plausible that she could have been comparatively more articulate and mature than the four-year-olds I know.

I loved how everything in the story played out, especially the ending. I felt for Marion, stranded between two worlds, belonging neither above nor below stairs. Layton was torn between preventing his staff from isolating Marion even more if he showed her any favoritism and his daughter’s desire to include Marion in events that, as governess, she really shouldn’t be participating in, especially because he found that he wanted Marion included as well. My heart broke for Marion as I learned her story, and for Layton’s as well, once the truth of his situation was discovered.

I love reading about the Jonquil brothers and can’t wait to read about more of them, specifically Corbin. I enjoyed seeing Philip and Sorrel from Friends and Foes again.

Drops of Gold is one of my favorites of Sarah’s books, which is saying a lot because I love all of them. I know when I want to read a good, clean, well-written romance that I can pick up anything by Sarah Eden and be happily satisfied. For those of you who have read Sarah’s books, I’m preaching to the choir. If you haven’t read any of Sarah’s books, what are you waiting for?

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***The DB Bookshelf ebook version of Drops of Gold is only $4.99 right now!***

Aug 012013
 

markofagiantThe Mark of a Giant: 7 People Who Changed the World

Author: Ted Stewart

Publisher: Shadow Mountain

Published Date: May 2013

Hardcover: 262 pages

Genre: Historical Nonfiction

ISBN# 9781609071813

Reviewed by: Shanda

FTC FYI: free temporary digital review copy that will be removed from my device after a short time

Book Summary

Throughout the course of history, civilization has been blessed by strong-minded men and women who have impacted our world in extraordinary ways. Their imprint upon humanity is beyond dispute. And many would contend that they were no less than the result of Divine Providence—a gift of God to the human race. Who are these individuals? What is it about these few that make them different? Were they merely in the right place at the right time? Or were they somehow chosen? The Mark of a Giant examines the lives and contributions of seven men and women who changed the world: Abraham of Ur, Pericles, the Apostle Paul, Sir Isaac Newton, Marie Curie, Martin Luther King Jr., and Mother Teresa.

Review

“This is a book about history. More specifically, it is a book about how strong-minded men and women have changed the course of history.” -Introduction, 1st paragraph

I’ve always enjoyed reading about history, but often it is weighed down with excessive facts and details. Not so with The Mark of a Giant. It did not read like a history textbook, but instead felt more like sitting down with a knowledgable acquaintance and listening to their engaging retelling of history.

The author offers an efficient yet educational overview of the events surrounding each individual, their personal circumstances and the state of the world at the time they lived. His love of historical setting is apparent and the resulting “big picture” view is something I truly appreciate.

It is inspiring and humbling to read about the circumstances surrounding these peoples’ lives and their accomplishments. I had heard of or read about everyone except Pericles. My curiosity has been piqued and I’m motivated to learn more about them.

It amazes me how, despite the diversity of lifestyle, location, and personal background, each standard, belief system, discovery and accomplishment served another that was to come. They are each connected in some way and had long term effects on the entire world throughout the passage of time. This proves again the importance of studying history and those who came before us.

While the author acknowledges that these seven people were human, made mistakes, and struggled with weaknesses, he states that this only proves that imperfect people can do great things. In conclusion, he addresses the specific traits that set these individuals apart and paved the way for them to do the work they set out to do.

The Mark of a Giant is a fascinating read that I will revisit again when I need reminding that it is through the hard work, persistence, courage and faith of people like you and me that the Lord’s work is accomplished on this earth.

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Jul 222013
 

thehouseatrosecreekThe House at Rose Creek

Author: Jenny Proctor

Publisher: Covenant Communications

Published Date: July 2013

Softcover: 251 pages

Genre: Contemporary LDS Romance

ISBN# 978-1-60861-894-1

Reviewed by: Shanda

FTC FYI: free review copy in exchange for an honest review

Summary

Kate Sinclair wasn’t planning on inheriting her family’s 100-year-old farmhouse. She wasn’t even planning on going back to Rose Creek. But when her aunt unexpectedly passes away, leaving her the house, she finds herself forced to confront her past, including the family she hasn’t spoken to in years.

When she finds a journal belonging to a distant ancestor in the attic of the old house, she begins a journey that reconnects her with her faith, her family, and herself.

But trouble looms. Kate’s new love interest, Andrew, has a past full of secrets. And the state department of transportation wants to bulldoze the old farmhouse for a highway project. Will Kate be able to see through Andrew’s past? Most importantly, will she find a way to save her house and hold onto the fragile threads that tie her to her family?

Review

The House at Rose Creek is a well-written debut novel with a deeper, more layered story than I expected. While it was definitely a love story, the romance was not always front and center. There was a rediscovering of love of home and family as well as a developing love and respect for those who came before. In a way, there was also a retelling of romance past as the main character reads about Ian and Jennie in his journal.

I didn’t really care for Kate at first but she quickly grew on me. I could feel the connection between her and Andrew right away. Andrew was really great, but I’m glad he had a bit of a history to keep things real. The secondary characters had dimension and personality, even if I didn’t like how they reacted some of the time, but that’s what made them more realistic. The situation with Kate’s family was relatable, tense at times and not quickly or easily resolved, but efforts and progress were still made even if everything wasn’t tied up in a pretty bow at the end. There was only one part, the sudden appearance of a former love interest, that felt a bit contrived to me.

I liked how the journal of her ancestor tied into Kate’s story and inspired her, not just in her investigation into the Church but in learning more about her family history. I, too, felt inspired to delve back into my family history. I enjoyed learning about Ian and looked forward to reading each of his journal entries throughout the story.

Readers who like a story with history and a nice romance will enjoy The House at Rose Creek. The writing is clean and easy to read, effectively evoking the emotion of the scene. I hope Jenny is hard at work on her next book because I look forward to reading more from her.

**There is a Goodreads giveaway for The House at Rose Creek open until July 31, 2013!!**

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Jul 082013
 

angelsagentsoflightAngels: Agents of Light, Love, and Power

Author: Donald W. Parry

Publisher: Deseret Book

Published Date: July 2013

Hardcover/ebook: 260 pages

Genre: Religious Nonfiction

ISBN# 978-1-60907-519-4

Reviewed by: Shanda

FTC FYI: received a temporary digital review copy that will be removed from my device after a short time

Summary

Stories are told around the world of persons who have received help or comfort from someone they couldn’t see—an angel or spirit who guided them or in some other way gave them assistance from beyond the veil.

But just who are these angels? Are they even real?

Although angels are a vital part of Latter-day Saint history and doctrine, their roles and purposes are often misunderstood. In this inspiring volume, author Donald W. Parry discusses in a clear and understandable way what we can learn from the scriptures and from modern prophets and apostles about angels and their missions.

Here you will find answers to such questions as the following:

  • What are angels?
  • What powers and abilities are angels given?
  • How do angels communicate with mortals?
  • What are the assigned missions and roles of angels?
  • How do angels reveal truth and teach the doctrines of the gospel?
  • How do angels minister to and comfort mortals?
  • What is the role of guardian angels in the modern world?

When just the thought of someone watching out for us can give us hope in challenging times, to realize that angels minister light, love, and power to us, whether we are aware of them or not, gives us unparalleled understanding, comfort, and peace.

Review

Angels: Agents of Light, Love, and Power is a fascinating look at the subject of angels and a more in-depth look at angels than I’ve ever taken before. It lists and discusses everything we have learned about angels from scripture and modern-day revelation, specifically what an angel is, what kind of beings angels are or can be, what angels are capable of doing, and what we know about the work of angels.

Included in the text are specific incidents, dreams and revelations regarding angels from prophets and apostles as well as some from members in early church history. By these experiences, the reader learns the importance of angels in accomplishing the Lord’s will and work here on the earth. The author limits the scope of the book’s focus to scripture and revelation from prophets and apostles so as to remain as close to the truth of angels as possible.

On a more personal note for the reader, the author discusses the influence angels can and do have in our own lives, including the revealed keys for recognizing a being as an angel of God or an angel of the devil. A lot of people, myself included, probably think the time of seeing angels has passed and isn’t something that happens very often nowadays. After reading this book and understanding the scope of angels and their work, I realize that I have felt and experienced the work of angels in my own life many times. I will definitely be paying more attention from this point on to angels and the circumstances around their appearances while studying the scriptures as well as during meaningful and spiritual experiences in my own life.

Angels: Agents of Light, Love, and Power was an educational read for me. Anyone who is interested in learning more about angels will find this book useful, interesting, and inspiring.

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