Blog Tour & Review :: The Wedding Chapel by Rachel Hauck

Title: The Wedding Chapel

Author: Rachel Hauck

Publisher: Zondervan (November 2015)

Source: Received from publisher via LitFuse Publicity Group

Buy book: here

For sixty years, a wedding chapel sat silent, waiting for love. But times have changed and the hour has come when it just might be too late.

Retired hall-of-fame football coach Jimmy “Coach” Westbrook never imagined anything would come of his labor of love—the wedding chapel he built for Collette Greer, the woman he fell for back in ‘49. But now an offer has come to turn the chapel into what it was meant to be—a place for love—and Jimmy sees no reason to hang onto his dream any longer.

Photographer Taylor Branson is trying to make a life for herself in New York. Leaving her hometown of Heart’s Bend, Tennessee, she put a lot of things behind her, including her family’s abysmal marriage rate. But love surprises her when she falls head-over-heels for Jack Forester, a top ad man. Their whirlwind romance results in an elopement, and a mountain of doubt. Jack, while genuine in his love for Taylor, can never seem to overcome his own demons to find the words of his heart.

When Taylor takes an assignment in Heart’s Bend, the job does more than send her back to her hometown, but into a world of family secrets buried beneath the sands of time.

When Taylor’s journey intersects with Coach’s, they rediscover the heartbeat of their dreams and that the love they long to hold is right in front of them. And worth every waiting moment.

Review:
I adored this latest book from one of my favorite authors, Rachel Hauck. Hauck has a way of writing Christian fiction in a way where faith is interwoven into the story in a very natural, realistic, relatable way. I am a huge fan of Christian fiction and that is not always easy to do. Usually the "God parts" seem weird and out of place sometimes. However, the way Hauck shows God working through all the aspects of the character's lives is refreshing because it feels authentic. It feels like something you and me deal with on a daily basis. And that is why you love Hauck's writing, because you always feel like you are right there in the story with the characters with them and you really care about them too. A lot. The love stories are never superficial, but full of romance in a way that you don't usually read about in contemporary romance. This is my fourth or fifth book that I've read from Hauck and each book just keeps getting better and better. 

This latest book, The Wedding Chapel, is a treat. I love stories told from multiple perspectives because I think it makes gives it more depth. However, it's not always an easy thing to do. I know this firsthand because the novel I started during NaNoWriMo is told from two points of view. The hardest part is to give each character a unique voice that is their own and different from everyone else. Being able to maintain that for FOUR characters (and in different time periods) is a testament to Hauck's craft because she does this really well with Jimmy, Taylor, Jack, and Colette in this book. You're never confused about who is telling the story. Plus, figuring out how these characters' lives are woven into each other was so enjoyable, especially once the two major story lines start to overlap. 

Each of the four characters are flawed in their own ways and they battle their own demons and insecurities. Even though you might think that it is predictable what will happen to each of them, I found myself riveted throughout the whole story because of all the unexpected twists and turns. This book also has themes of love, acceptance, family dynamics, and redemption. Hauck's masterful storytelling always takes you along a journey in her books. What a fun and charming journey this book was! 

Rating:

5 out of 5 stars

About the author:

Rachel Hauck is an award-winning, best selling author of critically acclaimed novels such as The Wedding Dress, Love Starts with Elle, and Once Upon A Prince. She also penned the Songbird Novels with multi-platinum recording artist, Sara Evans. Booklist named their novel, Softly and Tenderly, one of 2011 Top Ten Inspirationals. She serves on the Executive Board for American Christian Fiction Writers and is a mentor and book therapist at My Book Therapy, and conference speaker. Rachel lives in central Florida with her husband and pets. Connect with Rachel: website, Twitter, Facebook

 

Blog Tour & Review :: The Golden Braid by Melanie Dickerson

Title: The Golden Braid

Author: Melanie Dickerson

Publisher: Nyree Press (September 2015)

Source: Received from publisher via LitFuse Publicity Group

Buy book: here

The one who needs rescuing isn’t always the one in the tower… 

Rapunzel can throw a knife better than any man. She paints beautiful flowering vines on the walls of her plaster houses. She sings so sweetly she can coax even a beast to sleep. But there are two things she is afraid her mother might never allow her to do: learn to read and marry. 

Fiercely devoted to Rapunzel, her mother is suspicious of every man who so much as looks at her daughter and warns her that no man can be trusted. After a young village farmer asks for Rapunzel’s hand in marriage, Mother decides to move them once again—this time, to the large city of Hagenheim. 

The journey proves treacherous, and after being rescued by a knight—Sir Gerek—Rapunzel, in turn, rescues him farther down the road. As a result, Sir Gerek agrees to repay his debt to Rapunzel by teaching her to read. Could there be more to him than his arrogance and desire to marry for riches and position? 

As Rapunzel acclimates to life in a new city, she uncovers a mystery that will forever change her life. In this Rapunzel story unlike any other, a world of secrets and treachery are about to be revealed after seventeen years. How will Rapunzel finally take control of her own destiny? And who will prove faithful to a lowly peasant girl with no one to turn to?

Review:
What a delightful read! This is my first Melanie Dickerson book and I'm happy to hear that she has five more in the Hagenheim series. 

If you are looking for a sweet love story, fairy-tale retelling of Rapunzel mixed with some Christian fiction, this is perfect for you. The dialogue is witty, the action and adventure is paced well, and the Christian message behind everything isn't too preachy. 

My daughters and I love watching Tangled and when I signed up for this blog tour, I was curious to see what Dickerson's take on this fairy-tale would be. I am happy to say that her take on the story was definitely an original one and still very interesting. Rapunzel's character really spoke to me because she is searching for who she truly is, in a coming-of-age story. I love when people write princesses who are bold and adventurous, versus dainty and weak. Rapunzel is definitely no damsel in distress in this book, but she was still feminine and vulnerable too. 

Mother Gothel was truly evil in this rendition, even more so than in the Disney version, in my opinion. I love the storyline with Rapunzel going against her mother to learn to read. It was a unique take on her relationship with her mother and later, Sir Gerek, who was definitely swoon-worthy, especially once the two of them start to rely more on God's guidance instead of their own.

I also enjoyed that this book felt very much like a historical fiction one with all the references to different time period in Germany. It was fun to learn about the different customs and traditions. 

My only critique is that there times when the book bordered a little too closely to being cheesy at times, or cliched rather, but once I got over that, it was still very enjoyable. 

Looking forward to checking out Dickerson's other titles!

Rating:

4 out of 5 stars

About the author:

Melanie Dickerson is the author of The Healer's Apprentice, a Christy Award finalist and winner of the National Reader's Choice Award for Best First Book. Melanie earned a bachelor's degree in special education from the University of Alabama and has been a teacher and a missionary. She lives with her husband and two daughters in Huntsville, Alabama.

Connect with Melanie: website, Twitter,Facebook, YouTube

Blog Tour & Review :: The Finishing School by Valerie Woerner

Title: The Finishing School

Author: Valerie Woerner 

Publisher: Nyree Press (September 2015)

Source: Received from publisher via LitFuse Publicity Group

Buy book: here

Are you tired of waiting for change to happen in your life? Do you feel stuck, even though you want to live more intentionally?

 In today’s world, our most precious pursuit of a life well lived gets squeezed out by the silliest of things: binging on Netflix or ice cream, shopping trips for things we don’t need, bad habits we can’t seem to get a handle on, and so much more. Valerie has been there despite knowing what she wanted for her life. Actually do it? That’s the challenge.

After gobbling up all the non-fiction and self-help books her donut-filled belly could handle, she decided it was time to put her knowledge to good use and start actually living it out. You will hear about her journey through victories and plenty of failures and find practical tips to apply to your own pursuit of holiness. You will find homework at the end of each chapter that includes a worksheet to put real change in motion for your own life as well as recommended books to further study those topics that really test you.

Review:
I've been in a funk. Stuck in a rut that is so deep that all I could see was the next step in front of me, but nothing else. Moving aimlessly in the endless routine of day in and day out as a working mother with no relief in sight. 

I think that's why I absolutely adored this book. It's the book that I wish I had written because it was everything that I needed in my life right now. So much of what she wrote in this book resonated with me. Fellow book nerd, knowledge junkie? Check and check! 

I've been following Valerie on Instagram (@valmariepaper) for awhile now. I've always found her posts not only beautiful, but inspirational. I love her prayer journals and have been eyeing them for a long time. There was a period of my life (early in my marriage and pre-kids), when I would diligently keep a prayer journal. It was probably the time of my life when I felt the closest to God. In all honesty, I miss it. I miss Him terribly. This book has inspired me to start a new one again.

What I appreciated about this book is that each chapter was a quick, succinct guide to different areas of your life: joy, friendship, self-control, margin, etc. My favorite guides were to habits, balance, and comparison because they are the current demons that are at the most forefront of my life right now. 

Valerie writes in a way that is totally relatable, real, and at times humorous. It felt like sitting at a coffee shop with a close friend and bonding over common struggles of daily life. I think the Enemy wants nothing more than to make you think that you are alone in your daily trials and tribulations to make you feel isolated and like you're fighting the battles with your own sheer willpower and strength (or weaknesses, rather). It feels validating and refreshing to know that I am not alone and even though my journey and pursuit towards holiness in my walk with Christ will not be perfect, at least I know that I've got God on my side. I really don't think I'll ever be the same after reading this book and I'm thankful that I had the chance to read it through Litfuse. I am looking forward to the next steps in my journey as a Christ-follower, wife, mother, and woman. Thank you Valerie, for writing this book that spoke directly to my heart. 

I zipped through this book a little faster than I would have liked because I didn't have "balance" in my life, but I plan on rereading it again, slower... to savor each chapter and read it more like a devotional. I highly recommend reading this book like a devotional. That way, you have time to let the lessons of each guide sink in. I can also see this being a great book to study together in a study group of women in a bible study/small group environment. 

Lastly, I also appreciated that she also provided free homework worksheets and resources on her website to go deeper with the material. Please check out her website at: http://www.valmariepaper.com.

Rating:

5 out of 5 stars

About the author:

Valerie Woerner is owner of Val Marie Paper. She and her husband, Tyler, live in Louisiana with their daughter, Vivi Mae. The Finishing School is her first book.

Connect with Valerie: website, Twitter, Instagram

Blog Tour & Review :: Picture Perfect Love by Melissa McClone

Title: Picture Perfect Love

Author: Melissa McClone

Publisher: Zondervan Books (May 2015)

Source: Received from publisher via LitFuse Publicity Group

Buy book: here

About the Book:
When image becomes everything, it's up to love to refocus the heart.

Photographer Jenna Harrison wants every bride and groom to look picture perfect on their special day, putting her heart into every wedding to give the couple memorable images of their love. But her own heart is still broken, the unworn wedding dress hanging in her closet a reminder that relationships aren't always as perfect as they look through her camera lens. But Jenna has faith that she will find true love. Until then, she must be patient and trust in God's plan and His perfect timing.

Attorney Ashton Vance is the one that got away. When an embarrassing Photoshopped picture of put an end to his political aspirations, he blamed Jenna. So what if the photo led to his being offered a dream job and changing his life for the better? Jenna betrayed his trust, and two years later, Ashton's heart still hasn't recovered.

It was me. His younger sister's three words turn Ashton's world upside down. He must ask Jenna's forgiveness, but can he risk his heart a second time? Even if Jenna can forgive him, dare he hope for a second chance at her love?

Review:
One of the things I liked about the book was the premise of the book. Being a Christian wedding photographer myself, it definitely stood out to me and spoke to me. I also enjoyed that it was a story about redemption and second chances, especially because I like to believe that I am a fan of forgiveness and that people can really change. 

However, the story itself was a little too straightforward for me. Maybe because it was a novella, but I felt like the story was too rushed and the characters were underdeveloped. Consequently, it was challenging to really care about the characters. When Ashton shows up in the story, Jenna almost immediately starts to forgive him even though she spent the last two years piecing her life back together. All it took was him repaying her for the wedding that should have been. He should have done that the moment he called off the wedding and she should have made him! Then, what angered me even more was that Ashton actually needed a "third chance" from Jenna later on in the book! I think Jenna deserved better. 

It's a good thing that God's love is more unconditional than mine because in this story, He obviously changed Jenna's heart and provided her with a spirit of forgiveness, even though I can't really say that I would have done the same thing if I were in her shoes. This story had a lot of potential, but it lacked the depth I was looking for. 

About the author:

Melissa McClone has published more than thirty novels with Harlequin and Tule Publishing Group. She has also been nominated for Romance Writers of America's RITA® award. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, three school-aged children, two spoiled Norwegian Elkhounds and cats who think they rule the house.

Find Melissa online: website, Twitter, Facebook

Blog Tour & Review :: The Daughter of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky

Title: The Daughter of Highland Hall

Author: Carrie Turansky

Publisher: Multnomah Books (October 2014)

Source: Received from publisher via LitFuse Publicity Group

Buy book: here

About the Book:

What if the title, the estate, the life of security and splendor… what if it isn’t enough? 

Strong-willed and beautiful, debutante Katherine Ramsey feels ready to take the London social season by storm, and she must. Her family estate, Highland Hall, has been passed to older male cousin Sir William Ramsey, and her only means of securing her future is to make a strong debut and find a proper husband. With her all-knowing and meddling aunt as a guide, Katherine is certain to attract suitors at the lavish gatherings, sparkling with Great Britain’s elite.

When a shocking family scandal sidelines Katherine, forcing her out of the social spotlight, she keeps a low profile, volunteering with the poor in London’s East End. Here Katherine feels free from her predictable future, and even more so as a friendship with medical student Jonathan Foster deepens and her faith in God grows. But when Katherine is courted anew by a man of wealth and position, dreams of the life she always thought she wanted surface again. Torn between tradition and the stirrings in her heart for a different path, she must decide whom she can trust and love—and if she will choose a life serving others over one where she is served.

Review:
Ever since I started watching Downton Abbey (and I was late to start watching the show), I've been hooked on everything similar to it (books, movies, TV shows). This book definitely help to fuel the fire! Thankfully because I am so familiar with Downton Abbey, it made it a whole lot easier to understand Edwardian England and it's customs, especially regarding the social season. I am also a huge fan of Call the Midwife, so it helped me to understand the London East End and the contrast between the two different societies.

I did not read the first book The Governess of Highland Hall, but this book could easily stand-alone. I appreciate when authors help to fill in the gaps for you. I may have to go back to read the first one before I read the third one next year.

This coming-of-age story starts with Kate getting ready to be debuted this social season and I couldn't help but picture Mary from Downton Abbey in my head. She is being presented to the King and Queen and her aunt is determined to find her the right man to propose to her by the end of the season. Turansky does an excellent job of including lots of details in her writing to really help bring the story to life and I loved living and experience Kate's world while reading this book.

What is so fascinating about this time period is that you can't help but drawn into the romance of the era and the dynamics between the upper class and the serving class. At the beginning of the story, Kate's world was very black and white, but as the story progresses, you follow her as she struggles through a more "grey area" of life, between what's right and wrong, especially what's right and wrong for her. This includes her journey in not only her social awakening, but a spiritual one as well. Kate struggles with doing what society wants of her, what she thinks God's plan is for her life, and what she wants for herself.

This book begs to be a movie! Or a mini-series, perhaps? Can't wait for the next one!

Rating:

4 out of 5 stars

About the author:

Carrie Turansky is the award-winning author of more than a dozen novels and novellas, including Surrendered Hearts, Snowflake Sweethearts, and Along Came Love. She has been the recipient of the ACFW Carol Award, the Crystal Globe Award, and the International Digital Award. Turansky’s first historical fiction novel, and the first in the Edwardian Brides series, The Governess of Highland Hall, is a 2014 Carol Award finalist. While Turansky has been writing articles, devotions and essays since 1999, writing fiction is her passion, and she’s thankful for the creative ideas God has put into her mind and heart.

Turansky was born and raised in Oregon but currently lives in central New Jersey with her husband, Scott, who is a pastor, counselor and the author of several parenting books. They have five adult children, two lovely daughters-in-law, a wonderful son-in-law and four adorable grandchildren. The Turanskys partner in ministry at Calvary Chapel Living Hope, a church they helped plant along with a team of hardworking, Jesus-following friends.

When she’s not writing Turansky enjoys spending time with her family, working outside in her flower gardens, cooking healthy meals for family and friends, or walking around the lake near her home.

To keep up with Carrie Turansky, visit www.carrieturansky.com, become a fan on Facebook (AuthorCarrieTuransky) or follow her on Twitter (@CarrieTuransky) and Pinterest (CarrieTuransky).

Blog Tour & Book Review :: When I Fall in Love by Susan May Warren

Title: When I Fall in Love
Author: Susan May Warren
Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers (July 2014)

Source: Received from publisher via LitFuse Publicity Group

Buy book: here

About the Book:
A Christiansen Family Novel: When I Fall in Love 

Hawaii was the last place Grace Christiansen ever imagined she’d vacation, much less fall in love. But when her family surprises her with a cooking retreat in paradise, she is pulled—or maybe yanked—away from her predictable, safe life and thrown headfirst into the adventure of a lifetime. 

Max Sharpe may make his living on the ice as a pro hockey player, but he feels most at home in the kitchen. Which is why he lives for the three-week culinary vacation he takes each year in Hawaii. Upon being paired with Grace for a cooking competition, Max finds himself drawn to her passion, confidence, and perseverance. But just when Grace dares to dream of a future beyond her hometown, Max pulls away. 

Wrestling with personal demons, Max fights against opening his heart to a love he knows he should never hope for. And as his secrets unfold, Grace is torn between the safe path in front of her and what her heart truly desires. If love means sacrificing her ideal happily ever after, Grace’s faith will face its toughest test yet.

Review:
What I love about Susan May Warren's writing is her ability to pull you in from the first chapter with her masterful storytelling. This is the first of the Christiansen family novels that I've read and I'm happy to say that I am definitely looking forward to going back to read the other ones! I'm so curious about the back stories of the other characters that pop in and out of the main story. This is a book that I just wanted to crawl into and live in.

The premise of the story is so appealing... Hawaii, cooking retreat, and falling in love. Warren's characters are deep and REAL. It is so refreshing to read characters that have similar flaws and weaknesses, just like us. I love the way that Warren develops her characters because as you read, you follow them along their journey trying to overcome their fears and struggles. You believe in them. You root for them.

Throughout this story, I felt like God was tugging at my heart, reminding me to trust Him when I face the unknown. Reminding me to put my faith in Him, even when things don't make sense because He always has a plan. His Plan is always better than our plan. There are no guarantees in life, but knowing that God is always in control gives us peace and hope. WIth Grace and Max, we follow along with them as they learn to let go and let God.

Plus, the chemistry between Grace and Max is so funny and witty. You just love them together.

One of my favorite things about reading Christian fiction is that faith is always interwoven into the story, but Warren has a special way of weaving it together in a way that is realistic and genuine. I can't wait to read more!

Rating:

5 out of 5 stars

About the author:

Susan May Warren is the bestselling, RITA Award–winning author of more than forty novels whose compelling plots and unforgettable characters have won acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. She served with her husband and four children as a missionary in Russia for eight years before she and her family returned home to the States. She now writes full-time as her husband runs a lodge on Lake Superior in northern Minnesota, where many of her books are set. She and her family enjoy hiking, canoeing, and being involved in their local church. Several of her critically acclaimed novels have been ECPA and CBA bestsellers, were chosen as Top Picks by Romantic Times, and have won the RWA’s Inspirational Reader’s Choice contest and the American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year award. Five of her books have been Christy Award finalists. In addition to her writing, Susan loves to teach and speak at women’s events about God’s amazing grace in our lives. She also runs a writing community for authors. Visit MyBookTherapy.com to learn more. For exciting updates on her new releases, previous books, and more, visit her website at www.susanmaywarren.com

Find out more about Susan May at http://www.susanmaywarren.com/.

Check out more posts on the blog tour: http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/when-i-fall-in-love-susan-may-warren

Susan May Warren's newest book in the Christiansen Family Collection, When I Fall In Love,  has won over readers' and critics' hearts alike. With critical reviews like, ". . . an exquisite romance. Profoundly touching on the topic of facing fears, this book is a true gem," and more than 60 five-star reviews at Amazon, When I Fall in Love is sure to please.

One grand prize winner will receive:

Grab your aprons and wire whisks and buzz on over to the When I Fall in Love website to learn more and enter the Hawaiian Chef Showdown! Susan is challenging you to make a Hawaiian-inspired dish using coconut, mango, or one of the other ingredients mentioned in the book. You’ll get extra points for creating your own recipe—plus she might share it on the When I Fall in Love site! Or if you're not up for an adventure in the kitchen just click one of the icons below for easy entry.

Blog Tour & Review :: Princess Ever After by Rachel Hauck

Title: Princess Ever After
Author: Rachel Hauck
Publisher: Zondervan (Feb 2014)

Source: Received from publisher via LitFuse Publicity Group

Purchase a copy and learn more at Rachel’s website.

About the Book:
A Royal Wedding Book

Regina Beswick was born to be a princess.

But she’s content to be a small-town girl, running a classic auto restoration shop, unaware a secret destiny awaits her. One that will leap from the pages of her grandmother’s hand-painted book of fairytales.

Tanner Burkhardt is the stoic Minister of Culture for the Grand Duchy of Hessenberg. When he is tasked to retrieve the long-lost princess, he must overcome his fear of failure in order to secure his nation’s future—and his own.

Yet lurking in the political shadows is a fierce opponent with sinister plans to abolish the throne forever. Overwhelmed with opposition, Regina must decide if she’s destined to restore old cars or an ancient nation. Together—with a little divine intervention—Regina and Tanner discover the truth of her heritage and the healing power of true love.

Review:
This is the book that I've been waiting for since I finished the last page of Once Upon a Prince last year. No, seriously... like borderline cyber-stalking Hauck's Instagram for updates on when she was going to be done writing the next book because you JUST.CAN'T.WAIT!!! I absolutely adored Once Upon a Prince and I have to say, upfront, that I was initially very disappointed that it was a completely new story and not a continuation of the first one. However, once I got over that initial disappointment, I'm glad that it opened up a new world with a whole new set of loveable characters like Regina ("Reggie") and Tanner.

Like I've said before, what girl does not want to be a princess? I think the only thing better than becoming a princess by marrying a prince, is finding out that you were BORN one. Girl power, all the way! This is what happens with Reggie when Tanner, the Minister of Culture of Hessenberg, arrives in her town to inform her that she is the long lost royal heiress to the throne through her Grandmother Alice. Reggie spends most of the story dealing with the conflict of leaving her life behind (where she has recently rediscovered a love in restoring old cars) to be the rightful heiress of a small nation, which she knows nothing about.

It is this journey that brings Reggie and Tanner together and THIS is what I love the most about Rachel's writing. She writes stories about characters that feel so real to you... in their flaws, in their weaknesses, in their insecurities and in their extra "baggage." You love them and root for them. Not only that, but it truly is refreshing to read a clean, light-hearted, romantic love story that is not all about lust and sex. And even though, almost every single one of us will ever marry a prince or be a long lost princess, we are princesses in God's Kingdom! Plus, God's plans are ALWAYS better than our own. It's refreshing also to see real characters struggle with following their own plans (which we always think is better) or obeying God by following His.

Sprinkled throughout the story are journal entries from Reggie's grandmother, Alice, and they provided flashbacks to connect the past and present together. The diary entries provide insight into who Alice was and her innermost thoughts and feelings and definitely add depth to the story overall. I also like that we get a glimpse of Nathaniel and Susanna from the first book. (That definitely helped me get over the fact that the WHOLE book wasn't going to be about them.)

Without giving away too much, there are lots of twists and turns as Reggie has to deal with strong opposition while ultimately deciding whether she's going to follow her destiny and more importantly, her heart. 

Lastly, I wanted so bad to love this book as much as I did the first one. I think I set my expectations so high that nothing could have met them. In addition, the beginning of the story was a little slow for me, especially since I know nothing about cars other than driving them and buying gas, so the early parts of the book was hard for me to get really into because I couldn't relate. It didn't have the same sparkle as the first book, but after I got over myself, I'm happy to say that it was still a very enjoyable story and I hope there's a 3rd one to look forward to.  Rachel Hauck is an amazing writer and I hope there are many, many more books to come from her in the future.

Rating:

4 out of 5 stars

About the author:

Rachel Hauck is the bestselling author of ACFW Book of the Year winner Sweet Caroline, RITA Finalist Love Starts With Elle, bestselling and RITA Finalist The Wedding Dress, and of the critically acclaimed fiction collaboration with multi-platinum country artist Sara Evans, The Songbird Novels. Hauck’s latest release, is Princess Ever After, the second release in the Royal Wedding series. Once Upon A Prince (the first in the series), received rave reviews, including starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Booklist.

Hauck earned a degree in Journalism from Ohio State University and is a huge Buckeyes fan. She worked in the corporate software world until 2004 when she began to write fulltime. Although she admits to being Yankee-born, Hauck has lived in the south most of her life and works her southern experience into her stories. She now lives in sunny, though sometimes hurricane-plagued, central Florida with her husband and writes from her own two-story tower.

She is the past president of American Christian Fiction Writers and now serves on the executive board. She was named ACFW 2013 Mentor of the Year.

Hauck is also one of ten author contributors to Southern Belle View Daily.

Visit her website at www.rachelhauck.com to sign up for her newsletter, read her blog and follow her on Facebook (Rachel Hayes Hauck) and Twitter (@RachelHauck).

Check out more posts on the blog tour: http://litfusegroup.com/author/rhauck

Blog Tour & Book Review :: The Secrets of Happy Families by Bruce Feiler

Title: The Secrets of Happy Families
Author: Bruce Feiler
Publisher: William Morrow (Dec 2013)

Source: Received from publisher via LitFuse Publicity Group

Purchase a copy and download the Happy Families Toolkit: http://ow.ly/sSUq6

About the Book:
The book that revolutionized our view of what makes families happy . . .

Determined to find the smartest solutions and the most cutting-edge research about families, bestselling author and New York Times family columnist Bruce Feiler gathered team-building exercises and problem-solving techniques from the most creative minds---from Silicon Valley to the Green Berets---and tested these ideas with his wife and kids. The result is a lively, original look at how we can create stronger parent/child relationships, manage the chaos of our lives, teach our kids values and grit, and have more fun together.

The Secrets of Happy Families includes more than two hundred unique practices that will help your family draw closer and make everyone in your home happier. It has already changed the lives of millions of families, and it can do the same for yours

Review:
Who doesn't want to have a happy family? This title grabbed me, but I was skeptical about it. However, I went into this book with an open mind and I'm glad that I did because I did pick up some nuggets of wisdom that I am looking forward to implementing into our family routines.

I think the best way to describe this book is that it is a marriage, parenting, self-help book all rolled into one. In some ways, this book sacrifices depth for breadth, but for the most part, it was greatly appreciated because it dabbled in all different facets of family life. From allowances, to rearranging furniture in your house, to vacation scavenger hunts, and even tips for your sex life. I appreciated the extent to which Feiler researched various team-building techniques from all sorts of groups of people, like at ESPN to the Green Berets, from the 5 Love Languages to The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families. It was a nice collection of best practices for ways to have fun and grow as a family.

My husband and I have always wanted to write a family mission statement and I'm hoping this book will push us over from just thinking about it, into actually doing it, but Feiler encourages you to build a brand as a family. Also, I am looking forward to weekly family meetings when my kids get a little older. I can definitely see it being a touchstone for our family to build conversation. There are lots of other ideas in this book too and I think as long as you go into it picking and choosing what works for you and your family, you'll definitely enjoy learning more about how to cultivate happiness within your own family.

Rating:

4 out of 5 stars

About the author:

Meet the Author: Bruce Feiler writes a column in contemporary families for the New York Times and is the author of six consecutive New York Times bestsellers, including The Council of Dads. He is the host of several series on PBS, a popular lecturer, and a frequent commentator on radio and television. He lives in Brooklyn with his wife and twin daughters.
Learn more about Bruce at: http://brucefeiler.com

Check out more posts on the blog tour: http://litfusegroup.com/author/bfeiler

Blog Tour & Book Review :: The Headmistress of Rosemere by Sarah E. Ladd

Title: The Headmistress of Rosemere
Author: Sarah E. Ladd
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (Dec. 2013)

Source: Received from publisher via LitFuse Publicity Group

Buy book: here

About the Book:
Patience Creighton has dedicated herself to the Rosemere School for Young Ladies. But the return of the enigmatic master of the estate puts everything she loves at risk.

Bright, sensible Patience knows what is expected of her. At twenty-five, her opportunity for a family of her own has passed, so she invests herself in teaching at her father’s school for girls. When her father dies suddenly and her brother moves away to London, she is determined to make the school successful.

Confirmed bachelor William Sterling also knows what is expected of him, but mistake after mistake has left him teetering on ruin’s edge. As master of Eastmore Hall he owns a great deal of property — including the land where Rosemere School is located — but possesses little money to manage its upkeep. When debtors start calling, he is desperate to find a new source of income, even if it means sacrificing Rosemere.

When a fire threatens the school grounds, William must decide to what lengths he is willing to go to protect his birthright. And when Patience’s brother returns with a new wife to take over management of the school, Patience suddenly finds herself unsure of her calling. After a surprising truth about William’s past is brought to light, both William and Patience will have to seek God’s plans for their lives—and their hearts.

Review:
If you are a fan of Jane Austen, Downton Abbey, Jane Eyre, and anything Regency romance, you don't want to miss this book. I have to confess that while reading Austen and Jane Eyre, I struggled through the language and even though I enjoyed the stories, I am ashamed to admit that I had to watch the movies to help to clarify many things to me that I didn't completely comprehend through the robust language. However, even though The Headmistress of Rosemere is very similar to Austen, I am happy to say that it is a much easier read, but just as enjoyable with lots of family drama, interwoven with romance here and there.

I missed out on Ladd's first book, The Heiress of Winterwood, when it came out last year, but I definitely want to read it as soon as I can now that I've finished this one. This book can stand alone though, so it's not necessary to have read the first book in Whisper on the Moors.

This book grabbed me from the first chapter and it was definitely a page-turner for me. The story goes back and forth between Patience Creighton's and William Sterling's perspectives. It was interesting to really hear what was going on in both character's minds. I've grown to really enjoy stories told this way. In some ways, the side characters were just as enjoyable and their characterization really added dimension to the story. I love the way Ladd uses words to put you right into the story.

What I loved about this book was Patience and William's relationship. I felt very connected to Patience, maybe because I am an teacher and can understand her strong sense of duty and responsibility. She's been through so much with the death of her father, abandonment and betrayal of her brother and lack of love from her mother. She's a prime example of how much God can do through us even when we are beat up and broken down, and that He always has a plan. William undergoes such a compelling change from beginning to the end of the story that just screams REDEMPTION! I loved the interactions between these two and how they grew to love each other amidst all circumstances.

The twists and turns kept the pages turning and even though I thought I knew what was going to happen at the end, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that I was wrong.

I am looking forward to Ladd's next book this fall!

Rating:

4 out of 5 stars

About the author:
Sarah E. Ladd has always loved the Regency period — the clothes, the music, the literature and the art. A college trip to England and Scotland confirmed her interest in the time period and gave her idea of what life would’ve looked like in era. It wasn’t until 2010 that Ladd began writing seriously.  Shortly after, Ladd released the first book in The Whispers on the Moors series. Book one of the series, The Heiress of Winterwood, was the recipient of the 2011 ACFW Genesis Award for historical romance.

Ladd also has more than ten years of marketing experience. She is a graduate of Ball State University and holds degrees in public relations and marketing.

Ladd lives in Indiana with her husband, daughter, and spunky Golden Retriever.

To keep up with Sarah Ladd, visit www.sarahladd.com, become a fan on Facebook (Sarah Ladd Author), or follow her on Twitter (@SarahLaddAuthor).

Check out more posts on the blog tour: http://litfusegroup.com/author/sladd

Blog Tour & Review :: Once Upon a Prince by Rachel Hauck

Title: Once Upon a Prince
Author: Rachel Hauck
Publisher: Zondervan (May 7, 2013)

Source: Received from publisher via LitFuse Publicity Group

Buy book: here

About the Book:
The Royal Wedding Series Book One

Susanna Truitt never dreamed of a great romance or being treated like a princess—just to marry the man she has loved for twelve years. But life isn’t going according to plan. When her high-school-sweetheart-turned-Marine-officer breaks up instead of proposing, Susanna scrambles to rebuild her life.

The last thing Prince Nathaniel expects to find on his American holiday to St. Simon’s Island is the queen of his heart. A prince has duties, and his family’s tense political situation has chosen his bride for him. When Prince Nathaniel comes to Susanna’s aid under the fabled Lover’s Oak, he is blindsided by love.

Their lives are worlds apart. He’s a royal prince. She’s a ordinary girl. But everything changes when Susanna receives an invitation to Nathaniel’s coronation.

It’s the ultimate choice. His kingdom or her heart? God’s will or their own?

Review:
I loved this book. I really loved this book. It was exactly what I wanted in a love a story and I haven't read something like this in a long, long time. I loved The Wedding Dress last year and was so excited to be able to read Once Upon a Prince.

Inspired by the real-life love story of Prince William and Kate, this story follows the same formula of commoner-falls in love with-famous person. I will be the first to admit that I love all things about Kate Middleton and Prince William. Who doesn't grow up wanting to marry a prince? Even though I think we are brainwashed by Disney at a very young age, but I think at our core, we are searching for our prince and it really isn't until we find Jesus that we find our true Savior. In Once Upon a Prince, we get an inside look at the budding love between prince and commoner and the challenges that come along with it (and any other "normal" relationship). Even though this kind of love story could have been overly predictable, glamorized,  and sensationalized, I love its simplicity because it is a good, wholesome love story. It was incredibly refreshing to my soul to read a pure love story.

What makes this book great is that everything is believable. The main character, Susanna Truitt, is definitely a real, authentic, and flawed girl-next-door who meets Prince Nathaniel of Brighton who is bearing the impeding weight of taking on his father's kingdom. You understand them and feel for them. Most importantly, you root for them on their journeys to follow God's Will and not their own. It feels like a story that could really happen even though falling in love with a prince only seems to happen in fairy tales, but with God, ANYTHING is possible and Hauck does an exceptional job of weaving God in and out of her book. I love that the characters have unanswered prayers until the timing is right. It's what we struggle with on our walk with God each and every day, not just in our love lives.

I especially enjoyed the use of Susanna's friend, Aurora, as a "fairy godmother" kind of character. She comes in and out of the story at critical moments with prophetic warnings and messages. Aurora and the cast of various secondary characters make this story even more enjoyable and well-rounded.

I cannot wait for the next book!

Rating:

5 out of 5 stars

About the author:
Rachel Hauck is the bestselling author of ACFW Book of the Year winner Sweet Caroline, RITA Finalist Love Starts With Elle, bestselling and RITA Finalist The Wedding Dress, and of the critically acclaimed fiction collaboration with multi-platinum country artist Sara Evans, The Songbird Novels. Hauck’s latest release, Once Upon A Prince, is already receiving rave reviews, including a Starred Review from Publishers Weekly.

Hauck earned a degree in Journalism from Ohio State University and is a huge Buckeyes fan. She worked in the corporate software world until 2004 when she began to write fulltime. Although she admits to being Yankee-born, Hauck has lived in the south most of her life and works her southern experience into her stories. She now lives in sunny, though sometimes hurricane-plagued, central Florida with her husband and writes from her own two-story tower.

She is the past president of American Christian Fiction Writers and now serves on the Executive Board. Hauck is also one of five author contributors to Southern Belle View Daily.

Visit her website at www.rachelhauck.com to sign up for her newsletter, read her blog and follow her on Facebook (Rachel Hayes Hauck) and Twitter (@RachelHauck). 

Check out more posts on the blog tour: http://litfusegroup.com/author/rhauck

Blog Tour & Review :: Secretly Smitten by Colleen Coble, Kristin Billerbeck, Diann Hunt, Denise Hunter

Title: Secretly Smitten
Author: Colleen Coble, Kristin Billerbeck, Diann Hunt, Denise Hunter
Publisher: Thomas Nelson Publishers (January 8, 2013)

Source: Received from publisher via LitFuse Publicity Group

Buy book: here

About the Book:
Summer, fall, winter, spring-Smitten, Vermont, is the place for love . . . and mystery!

There's a secret in Grandma Rose's attic-a forgotten set of dog tags belonging to her first love. But David Hutchins was killed in action and never returned to Smitten. How did the dog tags end up in the attic?

The mystery intrigues Rose's three granddaughters-Tess, Clare, and Zoe-and they decide to investigate, though their mother, Anna, warns against meddling. But as the seasons turn and the mystery unravels, the three young women and their mother encounter some intriguing mystery men of their own. Has a sixty-year-old puzzle sparked something new for this close-knit family of women?

Join popular romance novelists-and real-life BFFs-Colleen Coble, Kristin Billerbeck, Diann Hunt, and Denise Hunter for four delightful intertwined tales of mystery and sweet intrigue.

Review:
I enjoyed reading Smitten last year and was excited to be able to read this 2nd book. At first I was a little nervous that it would be an unnecessary sequel, but then when I found out that there are four new characters, I was sold.

One of my favorite things about reading Smitten last year was that it introduced me to some new authors that I haven't read before. It was nice to see all their different writing styles combined again into one compilation.

In some ways this book is actually better than the first one because three of the characters are sisters who are are on the mission to solve the mystery of their grandmother's first love and their stories a little more intertwined together than the friends in the first one. Regardless, I was so happy to revisit Smitten and still secretly wish that this was a real town that I could visit in real life. It was fun to revisit this quaint town again.

The stories are very light and cute including dog tags, knitting (and a sheep!), the same snappy, witty dialogue from the first book and another all-around feel good story.

If you like Christian fiction, you will love this quick, light love story. You'll be smitten with Secretly Smitten. :)

Rating:

4 out of 5 stars

About the authors:
RITA-finalist Colleen Coble is the author of several best-selling romantic suspense novels, including "Tidewater Inn", and the Mercy Falls, Lonestar, and Rock Harbor series. * Christy Award finalist and two-time winner of the ACFW Book of the Year award, Kristin Billerbeck has appeared on The Today Show and has been featured in the New York Times. Her books include "A Billion Reasons Why" and "What a Girl Wants." * Denise Hunter is the award-winning and best-selling author of several novels, including "A Cowboy's Touch" and "Sweetwater Gap." She and her husband are raising three boys in Indiana. * Diann Hunt has lived in Indiana forever, been happily married forever, loves her family, chocolate, her friends, her dog, and, well, chocolate.

Find out more about Coble, Billerbeck, Hunter, Hunt here.

Check out more posts on the blog tour: http://litfusegroup.com/author/Smitten