The Icecutter's Daughter, by Tracie Peterson

My next book review is The Icecutter’s Daughter, by Tracie Peterson from the series Land of Shining Water.

As the lone female in a houseful of men, Merrill Krause dedicates her life to caring for her family and their business, as her dying mother asked.  Besides, it suits her; she’s never felt like she fits what most people expect in a girl- she’d rather work with her father’s horses and assist with the ice harvest.  And though she’s been mostly content up to this point, a part of her wonders if there will ever be anyone who will notice her amid the bevy of brothers determined to protect her from any possible suitors.

When Rurik Jorgenson arrives in their small Minnesota town to join his uncle’s carpentry business, he soon crosses paths with Merrill.  But unlike other men, who are often frightened away by her older brothers, Rurik isn’t intimidated by them or by Merrill’s strength and lack of femininity.  The attraction between them begins to build . . . until Rurik’s former fiancée shows up with wild claims that bring serious consequences to Rurik.

In my opinion, this book has just the right amount of mystery and romance to keep my attention and "stay up late to finish just one more chapter".  I liked Merrill because she was compassionate and willing to help her father and brothers instead of thinking of herself.  She had discovered she loved caring for her father’s Belgian horses that he raised.  The descriptions of the goodies prepared throughout the book made me hungry as Tracie described the tempting meals that Merrill served in the story.  I wish she would share the recipe of the carrot cookies (Page 46). 

With the descriptions of building furniture in Rurik's uncle’s carpentry business I could almost smell the fresh wood as it was being cut. The dilemma in Rurik’s relationship with his pre-arranged fiancée sure gives the story a puzzle to solve.  His best friend, Nils, challenges Rurik as they share their idea of becoming business partners.

I recommend this book to someone wanting a good fictional story with plenty of twists. 

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Books as part of their blogger review program.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

To Honor and Trust

Come home to magnificent Bridal Veil Island resort 

This invitation is offered to readers in the new book, To Honor and Trust, by authors Tracie Peterson and Judith Miller.

It is a pleasure to read another book from the Bridal Veil Island series.

        Bridal Veil Island, Georgia 1913

Callie Deboyer arrives at Bridal Veil Island to spend the winter working as a governess for the Bridgeport family. However, she finds she can't fully enjoy the beautiful resort because questions about her future weigh heavily on her mind: Should she continue in this job she enjoys, or is God calling her to join her parents in their missionary work?

When she enrolls young Thomas Bridgeport in golf lessons, Callie meets instructor Wesley Townsend, who urges Callie to take lessons, as well. During their time together, Callie comes to care for Wes--until she discovers that he's been hiding something very important from her.

Then expensive pieces go missing from various homes around the island, and suspicion is aimed in Callie's direction. Callie wonders if this is a sign she should leave it all behind and join her parents in Africa. Considering Wesley's deceit, will he ever be a man Callie can honor and trust for the rest of her life?

The atmosphere of this book provides a good escape and reminds me of an era when wealthy families often escaped to warmer climates. Callie's story involves her devotion to the Bridgeport family as their governess and her character inspires the high standards she has set for herself while accepting almost everyone she meets. After getting to know Wes, she begins to have a little bit of hope for her future.

There are episodes of suspense within the story, including a jewel thief, and when little Daisy is bitten by a dangerous spider.

The one thought I found as I read this book is how much to reveal when telling the the truth. I imagine most of us have told the truth, but maybe not told all of the information we know because we felt it might cause hurt feelings. This book is a good example of how to handle what, when and how to share our thoughts and build a trusting relationship with someone.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Books as part of their blogger review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

To Love and Cherish "Bridal Veil Island"

 Escape to a Beautiful, Historic Island Resort

                            Bridal Veil Island, Georgia
                                             1898   


Melinda Colson has been waiting months for Evan, the assistant gamekeeper at the Bridal Veil Island resort, to propose. Without an offer of marriage, she must return to Cleveland with the family she works for as a lady's maid.

Evan isn't afraid of hard work, and he hopes to be promoted soon. He wants to marry Melinda--but not until he's sure he can support her and a family.

Letters strengthen their romance until a devastating storm strikes the island. With no word from Evan, Melinda knows she must journey back to Bridal Veil in search of her beloved.

But the hurricane isn't the last calamity to shake up Bridal Veil. Melinda finds a new job on the island, but still no offer of marriage comes her way. Has she given her heart to the wrong person? Will she ever find a man to love and cherish?

As I began reading this story, I could imagine myself in this beautiful resort off the Georgia coast.  Tracie Peterson and Judith Miller have mastered their talents with helping me escape to another time and another place.  I was a bit frustrated with the story as far as Evan was concerned.  Instead of expressing his thoughts about his future and his feelings for Melinda, he kept them to himself.  Meanwhile, Melinda, with her "take charge" attitude, made up her mind to marry Evan, yet she gets the impression he doesn't have the same feelings for her.  I would recommend this book as light romance but with interesting historical aspects.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Books as part of their blogger review program.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

Against The Tide, by Elizabeth Camden

After a childhood rampant with uncertainty, Lydia Pallas has carved out a perfect life for herself. She spends her days within sight of the bustling Boston Harbor, where her skill with languages has landed her an enviable position as a translator for the U.S. Navy. 

Lydia's talents bring her to the attention of Alexander Banebridge, a mysterious man in need of a translator. Driven by a campaign to end the opium trade, Bane is coolly analytical and relentless in his quest. He cannot afford to fall for Lydia and must fight the bittersweet love growing between them.

When Bane's enemies gain the upper hand, he is forced to turn to Lydia for help. Determined to prove her worth, Lydia soon discovers that carrying out Bane's mission will test her wits and her courage to the very limits.

This was my first book to read by author, Elizabeth Camden, and I was hooked right away as the heroine, Lydia Pallas, was left an orphan.  Against The Tide is set with a historical setting, the Office of Naval Intelligence, where Lydia uses her skills and knowledge of several languages to assist with translating.

The story interjects humor as Lydia, who prefers order, is challenged by those characters who enjoy teasing her.  Lydia always keeps her desk in particular order, eats the same foods, and her predictictable nature makes it a challenge when she is asked to help Alexander Banebridge stop the opium trade.

There is a dark side to the story with a very evil Professor and his control of so many lives.  The mystery and continuing relationship between Lydia and Alexander give the story action plus excitement.  I would definitely recommend this book.   The writing and imagery are well-done.  I would read more of Elizabeth Camden's novels as I found her dialogue and the plots keep my interest.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Books as part of their blogger review program.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

Understanding World Religions in 15 Minutes a Day

I've wanted to read a simple, concise book to reference the many religions of the world.  Here is the opportunity to read a brief description of forty short readings, and I was able to absorb it quickly and update my understanding of the world's beliefs.

What religions are represented in your neighborhood, your workplace, and your children's school?  Things seem to be changing every day, and it can be hard to keep up.

In Understanding World Religions in 15 Minutes a Day, a cross-cultural expert and professor Garry Morgan explains the key beliefs, histories, and practices of more than twenty religions, including the familiar - Christianity, Judaism, Mormonism - and some of the lesser known - Baha'i, Sikhism, and New Age religions.

The book's format presents an easy-to-read description of a particular religion and includes "An Extra Minute" that I found interesting.
I recommend this book to all those who are curious about what others believe.  It would also be a useful tool for those who need a quick reference if you're teaching a Sunday School class, or leading a bible study.  I think the author's goal to always be respectful was achieved.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Books as part of their blogger review program.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

Chasing The Sun by Tracie Peterson

Hannah is desperate for help..
William is determined to regain his family's land...

When her father disappears in war-torn Mississippi, Hannah Dandridge finds herself responsible not only for her younger siblings but also for the Texas ranch her father recently acquired. A marriage of convenience could ease her predicament... but is it the true desire of her heart?

Wounded soldier William Barnett returns home only to find out that his family's ranch has been seized. Though angered at this turn of events, he's surprised to discover that it is a beautiful young woman with amazing fortitude who is struggling to keep the place running.

I would want Hannah as my friend.  Her determination and the commitment to her family were strong messages as I read "Chasing The Sun", the first book of a new series, Land of the Lone Star. Basing the story in Texas, near the end of the Civil War, gave this Christian romance the ingredients that made it easy to read during my weekend.  I would recommend this book for readers looking for a historical adventure with value-based themes. 

THE AUTHOR

Tracie Peterson is the award-winning author of over eighty novels, both historical and contemporary. Her avid research resonates in her stories, as seen in her bestselling Heirs of Montana, and Alaskan Quest series. Tracie and her family make their home in Montana. Visit Tracie's Web site atwww.traciepeterson.com and her blog atwww.writespassage.blogspot.com.

Disclaimer: I was sent a free copy of this book by Bethany House Book Reviewers so that in return that I would give an unbiased review.

No, We Can't, by Robert Stearns

The world is shifting.  It is dissatisfied, baffled and craving transformation.  

Once I read that intro, I was curious.  The world we live in today is bombarded with news of coexistence, wars, peace, and opinions.  What should we believe?  Does anyone know the truth?  How can we trust any source to be accurate?  These are all questions that begin to have answers in this latest book I've read, by author, Robert Stearns.

The book, "No, We Can't, Radical Islam, Militant Secularism and the Myth of Coexistence", provides the reader with a comparative religious overview of a coming perilous culture clash.

My first impression as I began to read this book, was apprehension.  As I read further, I realized I need to be more informed about the three dominant world cultures and their value systems.  The presentation of each culture is quite detailed and factual.  Understanding how different belief systems and each culture's response to basic human needs was the major portion of this book.
After reading "No, We Can't, a believer of  Judeo-Christian beliefs and values will be able to respond to a world we thought would always stay the same.  That world is changing rapidly whether we like it or not.  Should you read this book?  Yes.  Should a believer of Islam or secularism read this book?  I think so.  Will we all be able to coexist?  After reading this book, probably not.  The age-old struggle for power and being in control hasn't changed.
One final thought.  I believe this book would be read by more people if it was titled, perhaps, "The Climax of Human Civilization", or "Coexistence Is A Myth".
"I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers for this review."

The Doctor's Lady, by Judy Hedlund - Review Coming Soon!

When Bethany House Publishers listed this book as a choice, the story of missions got my interest. Come back soon to read my review.

Priscilla White knows she'll never be a wife or mother and feels God's call to the mission field in India. Dr. Eli Ernest is back from Oregon Country only long enough to raise awareness of missions to the natives before heading out West once more. But then Priscilla and Eli both receive news from the mission board: No longer will they send unmarried men and women into the field.
Left scrambling for options, the two realize the other might be the answer to their needs. Priscilla and Eli agree to a partnership, a marriage in name only that will allow them to follow God's leading into the mission field. But as they journey west, this decision will be tested by the hardships of the trip and by the unexpected turnings of their hearts.