The Lord is My Shepherd by Debbie Viguie

Cindy’s church is getting ready to celebrate Easter, and Jeremiah’s Temple is preparing for Passover when Cindy literally stumbles over the body of an unknown man lying dead in the sanctuary. The church was locked, and a bloody cross necklace on the floor seems to be the only clue. The killer is likely a member of the congregation, but there are hints that similar deaths have happened in the past. Are Cindy and Jeremiah dealing with a serial killer? They have to unravel the clues before Easter Sunday arrives and more people die.


I read this book in 3 days. That's quick for me. I really enjoyed it and could not put it down. It caught my attention immediately. For me, it was a fast read. For someone who can read a book a day, they'd definitely finish in a day. I give this book 5 stars.

A Place of Peace by Amy Clipston

Summary from goodreads


Miriam Lapp, who left the Amish community in Pennsylvania three years ago, is heartbroken when her sister calls to reveal that her mother has died suddenly. Traveling home to Pennsylvania, she is forced to face the heartache from her past, including her rift from her family and the break up of her engagement with Timothy Kauffman.brHer past emotional wounds are reopened when her family rejects her once again and she finds out that Timothy is in a relationship with someone else. Miriam discovers that the rumors that broke them up three years ago were all lies. However, when Timothy proposes to his girlfriend and Miriam's father disowns her, Miriam returns to Indiana with her heart in shambles.brWhen Miriam's father has a stroke, Miriam returns to Pennsylvania, and her world begins to fall apart, leaving her to question her place in the Amish community and her faith in God.

My review of the book is that I liked it a lot. I love the characters because they are warm and friendly toward Miriam aside from her family. I give this book 5 stars. I loved it and can not wait for the other one to come out.

Oceans Apart by Karen Kingsbury

Summary from Goodreads

A night that changed everything . . .

Eight years ago, during a stormy weekend on the shores of Hawaii, Connor Evans broke his vows. He's kept his secret, until the woman from Connor's past dies, leaving behind a young son . . . Michele never thought her family was perfect, but they were happy. Now her family is on the brink of destruction. Will a lonely child help bridge the distance between them—before it's too late?

Like all of Kingsbury's books that I have read, I enjoyed this one just as much. It took me a while to read it because I was reading other books too. I enjoyed it immensely though and I give it 5 stars and recommend it to any and all readers that read Kingsbury books.

Miriam's Heart by Emma Miller

From Goodreads summary
Miriam Yoder always thought she'd marry Charley Byler. Steady, dependable Charley, who grew up on the neighboring farm, and has been sweet on her since they were young. But then local veterinarian John Hartman catches Miriam's eye. He's handsome, charming, cares for animals—and is not Plain. While Miriam is known as the "wild" Yoder sister, she is still expected to marry a good Amish man. But what if it's God's plan to match her with John? Miriam must listen to her heart to truly know which man will claim her love and her future.


I really enjoyed this book a lot. I love Amish stories. I give Emma Miller 5 stars for Miriam's Heart. It was really good.

Kelly's Chance by Wanda Brunstetter

Life for Kelly McGregor is a daily drudge of driving her overbearing father’s mules along Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Canal. She dreams of one day owning an art gallery where her own drawings and paintings are on display. But these dreams don’t include marriage. . .not after seeing what her father has done to her mother. How then can Mike Cooper, a general store owner, make her realize he is different than her father and wants to support her artistic talent? Will Kelly learn that dreams can walk hand in hand with a love created by God?

I can't wait to read the sequel to this book. This was a really good story and I loved it! I give it 5 stars out of 5 stars.

Beside Still Waters by Tricia Goyer

Raised among the Amish of Indiana, 18-year-old Marianna Sommer plans to get baptized into the church, marry Aaron Zook, and set up life in the only community she has ever known. But when her older brother chooses the world’s path following his rumschpringe, and a younger sibling begins showing interest in Englisch ways, Marianna’s parents move the family to Montana.

Although she is also in her rumschpringe years and not obligated to move, Marianna makes the journey to dutifully help her mother who is expecting another child. Surprisingly, from strangers on the cross-country train ride to the less rigid stance of the new Montana community, many English influences awaken within Marianna—and even her father—the desire to pursue a deeper kind of joy and love for God.

After an accident, Marianna tells her friend Ben a defining story about the Sommer family, and his response further illumines the active relationship God seeks with His followers. In due time, she learns the move from Indiana was not about losing anything, but finding out who God really is. Despite all the shake-ups, Marianna feels a sweet peace, like still waters, in her soul.



This was a good book. I'm giving it 5 out 5 stars! I thought it would end one way, but never thought it would end a different way. Great book. Loved it.

Mail Order Mariages (thre e in one)

Three brides for three rugged men.

Rocky Mountain Wedding by Jillian Hart

Melody Pennington fled to Montana for a new start as a mail-order bride. Gabe Brooks, handsome older brother to the man she was supposed to marry, helps her settle in. But what Melody doesn't expect is to fall for the rugged, closed-off lawman who swears he doesn't believe in love!
I liked this story and give this individual story a 4.
Married in Missouri by Carolyn
Lucas Harrison needs a mother for his sons. He's not looking for love, but he expects his wife to act like one — in every sense of the word! Elizabeth has always felt tall and awkward, but Lucas towers over her. He's strong as a bull, gentle as a lamb, and Elizabeth's heart soon begins to melt….
I hated this one and give it a 2 for this individual story It was way too explicit.
Her Alaskan Groom by Kate Bridges

Newly trained midwife Sophie Grant had hoped marrying respectable John Colburne would be easy as pie. But he's tough, stubborn and cynical — except in bed with her at night! How can Sophie turn her passionate nighttime lover into a daytime husband who isn't afraid to show he loves his mail-order bride

I didn't care for this one either. I give it a 3 for this individual story.

Over all I thought I'd give it a 3 because I added up the rates and divided them by 3, and got 3. So this book overall I give a 3.

Reunion by Karen Kingsbury with Gary Smalley

This touching story allows us to see into the lives of the Baxter family as Erin and Sam attempt to adopt a child. As the family looks forward to a heartwarming reunion, they find out that Mr. and Mrs. Baxter have a secret that could change their lives forever.


I really enjoyed this book. I give it 5 stars. Karen and Gary did a great job together. Yeah! Way to go! I loved this book and give it 5 stars.

The Gifted by Terri Blackstock

Three friends whose lives needed a jolt...An earthquake that struck without warning...A supernatural gifting of mysterious powers...

The Gifted is one of Terri Blackstock's most intriguing novels. A massive natural disaster leads to an even more earth-shaking supernatural transformation in the lives of three friends who have no idea why they've been spared or infused with these distinct gifts.

One thing is certain...the earthquake was just the warm-up for what lies ahead.

I liked this so much that I decided to read it again. It's a great book and of course I give it 5 stars. Or 10 stars rather. It's amazing story and I loved it.

Rejoice by Karen Kingsbury with Gary Smalley

This latest release in the Redemption series reunites readers with the continuing saga of the Baxter family. Brooke Baxter has achieved everything this world has to offer--a prestigious career, a beautiful home, and two wonderful children. Her recent return to her faith is an encouragement to her family. But if she faces tremendous loss, can her fledgling faith and her rocky marriage survive?

So far all the Redemption books have kept my attention. I get excited to read them and can't put them down. This is another great book! I give it 5 stars. Recommed to read series in order.

Return by Karen Kingsbury with Gary Smalley

Goodreads Summary:

A fresh new look for the best-selling series from America’s number-one inspirational novelist, Karen Kingsbury. Fans will enjoy a personal note from Karen and Gary Smalley as well as discussion questions for book group use. Revisit the Baxter family in all their life-changing events, or share the series with someone who hasn’t discovered it yet.
The Redemption series won Christian Retailing’s 2005 Retailer’s Choice Award for Best Series!

This touching novel reunites readers with the Baxter family and focuses on the only Baxter son, Luke. He is determined to leave his faith and his past behind and embrace a new, free-thinking future. But what he doesn’t realize is that his past holds a secret even he doesn’t know. When Luke finds out, his comfortable new life is turned upside down, and he must turn back to his roots.

My review:
I loved this book. I had a hard time putting it down. Great book. I give it 5 stars. It kept my attention. Really good book.

Return by Karen Kingsbury with Gary Smalley

Remember by Karen Kingsbury with Gary Smalley

She has locked up her heart, convinced that no one - including God - could love her. Four unlikely people - Alzheimer's patients - find the cracks in Ashley's heart and slowly help her remember.

Then comes the nightmare of September 11, which forever changes the lives of the Baxter family, causing them to remember what is important and leading them to make decisions that are both heartbreaking and hope-filled.

Landon Blake, who has loved Ashley since he was a teenager, tries to dull the pain of her rejection by immersing himself in the rescue efforts at Ground Zero.

Tragedy and healing. Hurt and forgiveness.
Redemption.
And powerful lessons about remembering.

Novelist Karen Kingsbury and relationship expert Gary Smalley have teamed up to bring you an inspiring series of stories that explore the relationship principles Gary has been teaching for more than thirty years.

I enjoyed this book very much. It kept my attention. I loved it. Though I found it sad in some parts and hard to read because of the mention of 9/11. Really good though.

Redemption by Karen Kingsbury and Gary Smalley

Goodreads Summary:
A Betrayal

Kari Baxter Jacobs is furious, hurt, and confused. Her husband, Tim, a respected professor of journalism, is having an affair with a student. Stunned, Kari returns home to the Baxter family to sort things out. But when an old flame shows up, she is more confused than ever.

A Decision

How can Kari forgive her husband? And what about her own revived feelings for Ryan, a man she knows she should avoid? What remedy could possibly ease the pain?

A Hope

The gifted writing team of Gary Smalley and Karen Kingsbury brings us a profound story of redemption. A betrayal. A broken marriage. Will Kari ever love again?

A story of love at all costs


Wow! Wow! Wow! What a story! Well written Karen and Gary. I loved this book. I'm giving it a 10 out of 10. I loved everything about it. I could NOT put this book down. I read it in 3 days. For me that's good. I could imagine the entire story as I read it! It was so good that I started book 2 of this series and I am on chapter 4 of Remember. Wow! I don't know how to express my feelings about this book, but I recommend it to everyone. This is a Must read book.

The Revlation by Beverly Lewis

Goodreads Summary:
As austere and graceful as their pastel covers, the Abram's Daughters novel series by Beverly Lewis invites us into an Old Order community where good people wrestle with problems of faith, love, and responsibility. The Revelation brings this gripping three-generation story to an unforgettable multi-tiered conclusion.

I really enjoyed this book by Beverly Lewis and the entire series. My rate is on a 5 star scale, and I give it a 5. I loved the ending too.

A Promise of Hope by Amy Clipston

In A Promise of Hope, the second book in the Kauffman Amish Bakery series by Amy Clipston, an Amish widow with newborn twins discovers her deceased husband had disturbing secrets. As she tries to come to grips with the past, she considers a loveless marriage to ensure stability for her young family … with her faith in God hanging in the balance.

I really enjoyed this book. I'm giving it a 5 out of 5 or 10 out of 10. It was well written and I fell in love with the characters. Well done Amy. Keep writing. I can not wait for the 4th book in the series. I'm gonna start book 3 soon. I loved the family and the characters, so glad there are 5 books in the series.

A Gift of Grace by Amy Clipston

Goodreads Summary:
Rebecca Kauffmans tranquil Old Order Amish life is transformed when she suddenly has custody of her two teenage nieces after her "English" sister and brother-in-law are killed in an automobile accident. Instant motherhood, after years of unsuccessful attempts to conceive a child of her own, is both a joy and a heartache. Rebecca struggles to give the teenage girls the guidance they need as well as fulfill her duties to Daniel as an Amish wife.

Rebellious Jessica is resistant to Amish ways and constantly in trouble with the community. Younger sister Lindsay is caught in the middle, and the strain between Rebecca and Daniel mounts as Jessicas rebellion escalates. Instead of the beautiful family life she dreamed of creating for her nieces, Rebecca feels as if her world is being torn apart by two different cultures, leaving her to question her place in the Amish community, her marriage, and her faith in God.

Wow, I recommend this book to anyone who wants to try and Amish background book or already knows they love the Amish background books. This book was so good that I could not put it down. Wow! I definitely give this book a 5, but if I were to do it on a 10 point scale, it would definitely be a 10. I could NOT put this book down and read it in two days and then I bought the rest of the series. I can't wait to get the 4th book in January, and I'm already reading book 2 of this series. Wow, I don't want to put the second book down either.

Courting Ruth by Emma Miller

Goodreads Summary:
Amish widow Hannah Yoder prays her daughters will each find a husband someday. Still, sensible Ruth believes it's God's will that she stay home and help care for her younger sisters. But when a handsome young man comes to Kent County, Ruth starts to rethink her plans. Not yet part of the church, Eli Lapp is allowed to run wild. Yet something in Ruth's sweet smile and gentle manner makes him yearn to settle down—with her at his side. Can Eli convince her that their lives should be entwined together on God's path?

I loved this book. I give it a 5. I really loved this story of Ruth. Emma Miller is a good writer. I give this book a 5. I loved the family and the characters.

Finally a Family by Jillian Hart -
Widow Molly McKaslin won't marry for less than true love. But does handsome town doctor Sam Frost want a wife, or a housekeeper for his daughters? With the help of two little matchmakers, Molly might end up with the family of her dreams.
Home Again by Victoria Bylin -
When her troublemaking son vandalizes the town church, Cassie O'Rourke comes face-to-face with town sheriff — and former love — Gabe Wyatt. The honorable lawman offers to help tame her wild child, if he can come courting. For the love of her son, dare she entrust her heart to this man once more?
Finally a Family

This story was cute and I liked it. I really enjoyed the 8yr old twins and their cow Sukie. What mischief these two girls would get in. But I loved the story and fell in love with Molly and the twins.
Home Again
I really enjoyed this story even more. Luke learned a lesson and learned how to defend himself. I loved the ending too. Cassie learns to love Gabe and let him support her. I really loved both these stories.
I give this book In a Mother's Arm 5 stars.

An Amish Christmas by Cynthia Keller

Meg Hobart has everything: a happy marriage to a handsome, successful husband, a beautiful home in Charlotte, North Carolina, and three wonderful children. But it all comes crashing down around her the day she learns that her husband, James, has been living a lie—and has brought the family to financial ruin. Penniless and homeless, the Hobarts pack up what little they still possess and leave behind their golden life for good. But it’s not the material things Meg finds herself mourning. Instead, she misses the certainty that she should remain married to James, who has betrayed her trust so thoughtlessly. Worse, she is suddenly very aware of just how spoiled her children have become. Meg wonders what her family has really sacrificed in their pursuit of the American dream.

A frightening twist of fate forces the Hobarts to take refuge with a kind Amish family in Pennsylvania, where they find themselves in a home with no computers, no cell phones, nothing the children consider fashionable or fun. Her uncooperative brood confined to the Amish world of hard work and tradition, their futures entirely uncertain, Meg fears she can never make her family whole again.

Celebrating life’s simplest but most essential values, packed with laughter and tears, this is a story of forgiveness and the power of love. You will never forget the special moment in time that is An Amish Christmas.

My review:
This novel is definitely worth the read. I really enjoyed it and couldn't put it down. I wanted to read it to the end. I give this Novel 5 stars. I recommend this book to others who love Amish Novels.

Love on Assignment by Cara Lynn James

During the summer of 1900 Charlotte Hale, a native Newporter and secretary for the Rhode Island Reporter, accepts an undercover assignment as temporary governess to Daniel Wilmont's children in order to secretly gather evidence against him. As he helps her rediscover God, Charlotte learns that Daniel is an honorable man.
They unexpectedly fall in love despite their different backgrounds and social positions. Charlotte soon realizes she must defend Daniel against the forces set against him-a willful student with a romantic crush and the newspaper editor determined to destroy his reputation.

My review:
I enjoyed this book enough to give it 3.5 stars I had a hard time reading it, but I did enjoy it more than I thought I would. I took a break from reading it, and when I came back to it I really enjoyed it. This was a good book. Slow getting into, yet very exciting to read.

Secrets of Harmony Grove by Mindy Starns Clark

Goodreads Summary:
From the bestselling author of Shadows of Lancaster County comes an exciting new romantic mystery set in Amish country.

When New York marketing executive Sienna Collins finds herself unemployed, she moves out of her pricey Manhattan apartment to sleepy Harmony Grove, Pennsylvania. She plans on running the bed-and-breakfast she had bought as an investment in Lancaster County. However, when the manager she lets go is later found murdered on the property, Sienna’s troubles take a serious turn.

A handsome local wishes to befriend her, but can she trust him? And when her ex-boyfriend shows up, wanting to reconcile, can she cope with him in the middle of this crisis? Sienna must learn to depend on the Savior she has recently taken into her heart. And she’ll need all the help she can get, because the secrets she uncovers in Harmony Grove threaten her livelihood, her safety, and ultimately her life.

My review:
This book was not one of my favorites to read. It was difficult to get into and difficult to finish, but I finally finished it. I give it a 3 star out of 5 star because it did get better 3 quarters way through, but I really didn't like it much.

Seaside Cinderella by Anna Schmidt

Goodreads Summary:

The tranquility of Nantucket Island offered poor but proud Lucie McNeil refuge, a place to dream about a better life. Her quiet existence as companion to an elderly couple was a blessing for the tragedy-haunted Irish immigrant. But all that changed when her employers' handsome, elegantly attired son stepped ashore. For she recognized him instantly as the owner of the Boston factory where a terrible fire had scarred her forever. She knew she should hate Gabriel Hunter, yet she could not. She found herself drawn to the caring soul she sensed behind the ruthless facade he showed the world. And she could not help dreaming that such different people--a poor servant girl and a wealthy merchant prince--might somehow make a life together.
My review:
I really enjoyed this book. Anna Schmidt did a fantastic job writing the story. I give this book 5 stars out of 5 stars.

Head in the Clouds by Karen Witemeyer

Adelaide Proctor is a young woman with her head in the clouds, longing for a real-life storybook hero to claim as her own. But when a husband-hunting debacle leaves her humiliated, she interviews for a staid governess position on a central Texas sheep ranch and vows to leave her romantic yearnings behind.

When Gideon Westcott left his privileged life in England to make a name for himself in America's wool industry, he never expected to become a father overnight. And five-year-old Isabella hasn't uttered a word since she lost her mother. The unconventionality of the new governess concerns Gideon--and intrigues him at the same time. But he can't afford distractions. He has a ranch to run, a shearing to oversee, and a suspicious fence-cutting to investigate.

When Isabella's uncle comes to claim the child--and her inheritance--Gideon and Adelaide must work together to protect Isabella from the man's evil schemes. And soon neither can deny their growing attraction. But after so many heartbreaks, will Adelaide be willing to get her head out of the clouds and put her heart on the line?

I absolutely loved this story. Although it took me some time to read this story, I found it quite exciting and hard to put down. It definitely grabbed my attention at the very start of the book. Without a doubt, I give this book 5 stars and say it is a must read! Witemeyer did a terrific job writing this book and I am glad I read it.

A Time to Laugh by Kelly Eileen Hake

Isaac is finally ready to marry Nessa. Isaac Freimont sees his marriage to Nessa Gailbraith, his childhood sweetheart, as a foregone conclusion. They have basically been promised to each other since&well, since always. Isaac finally feels that the time is right and puts forth his carefully planned proposal to Nessa. But much to Isaac's surprise, she refuses! Nessa has loved Isaac forever and has dreamed of the day he would ask her to be his loving wife. But when his proposal comes at last, it sounds more like a business arrangement than a declaration of undying love. How can she marry a man who must not truly love her? As hurt and confusion drive a wedge between the sweethearts, newcomers arrive in Saddleback, Montana. They catch the attentions of both Isaac and Nessa and cause a further rift between them. Will Isaac and Nessa lose all they have dreamed of or turn to God and find in Him their time to laugh and love?
I enjoyed this book. I give it 5 stars on a 5 star rating scale. I felt like I was part of the story which is what I like in a book. It was really good. Thanks Kelly for write a terrific book.

A Merry Heart by Wanda Brunstetter

Goodreads Summary
Miriam Stoltzfus is a young Pennsylvania Amish woman once filled with dreams for a future with a man. . .who jilted her. Now she is known as the old maid schoolteacher with a heart of stone. Could a forbidden romantic friendship with an English newspaper reporter stir the embers of her heart? Or, will she follow the traditional path and settle for a marriage of convenience born out of the sake of a child? Either way, she must find the key to letting go of the bitterness that binds her ability to love.

I loved this story. Wanda you've written another good Amish Story! Way to go. I give on a 5 star scale, 5 stars. I found myself not wanting to put this book down. I loved the ending and can't wait to read the next book in the series. I felt like I was in the story or watching a movie.

Baby Makes a Match by Arlene James

Goodreads summary
Stranded at a truck stop alone and in trouble, pregnant Bethany Carter desperately needs a ride to Buffalo Creek. Then along comes Chandler Chatam, a cowboy with a bad-boy smile and a heart of gold. But when they get to Chatam House, Chandler's three maiden aunts assume he's the father! Chandler's honored to care for Bethany and her unborn child. Problem is, the more time he spends with sweet Bethany, the more he wishes he truly were the father—and her husband. What's a rodeo cowboy to do but lasso the lady into his arms?
I enjoyed this book immensely, I had a hard time putting it down. I definitely recommend this book. I give this book a 5 star. This was a great story. I felt like I was part of the story or watching a movie unravel. I like that in a book.

Lady in the Mist

Goodreads summary:
By virtue of her profession as a midwife, Tabitha Eckles is the keeper of many secrets: the names of fathers of illegitimate children, the level of love and harmony within many a marriage, and now the identity of a man who may have caused his wife's death. Dominick Cherrett is a man with his own secret to keep: namely, what he, a British nobleman, is doing on American soil working as a bondsman in the home of Mayor Kendall, a Southern gentleman with his eye on a higher office.

By chance one morning before the dawn has broken, Tabitha and Dominick cross paths on a misty beachhead, leading them on a twisted path through kidnappings, death threats, public disgrace, and . . . love? Can Tabitha trust Dominick? What might he be hiding? And can either of them find true love in a world that seems set against them?

With stirring writing that puts readers directly into the story, Lady in the Mist expertly explores themes of identity, misperception, and love's discovery.


I enjoyed this book, but not as much as others. It was kind of easy to put down, easier than I would have liked. I did enjoy it and I did like it, so I give it 4 stars.

Dakota Child by Linda Ford

Goodreads Summary: Trapped in a North Dakota blizzard, single mother Vivian Halliday's prayer for herself and her child is answered. Rescue comes in the seemingly terrifying form of Billy Black, the hulk of a man feared by all the townsfolk. Yet in the home he shares with his ailing mother, the handsome, gentle giant warms her baby's bottles and sings sweet lullabies that lull even Vivian to peaceful sleep. When the storm abates, will she still seek the life that led her back to the village? ---------------- I really enjoyd this book a lot. It was sad through out the book, but I loved the happiness at the ending. I give it 5 stars. Linda is a wonderful writer and I loved her book. I recommend it to others.

House of Secrets by Ramona Richards

Goodreads Summary: Sheriff Ray Taylor always had a soft spot for the former minister's widow, June Eaton…until he found her standing over the current minister's dead body. She claims she's innocent—and after a string of attacks against Ray and June, he's inclined to believe her. So who is the real killer, and what is he after? Ray knows that the parsonage has to be the key. The old house is hiding a dark secret, something the pastor's murderer is convinced June knows. Something that murderer will do anything to keep buried. I really enjoyed this book a lot. It's a good suspense book. I love it. I give this book 5 stars. Ramona Richards is a terrific writer.

A Woman called Sage by Diann Mills

Goodreads Summary: They took away everything she loved - now, she-s out for revenge.Sage Morrow had it all: life on a beautiful Colorado ranch, a husband who adored her, and a baby on the way. Until five ruthless gunmen rode up to their ranch and changed her life forever. Now Sage is a bounty hunter bent on retribution. Accompanied only by her majestic hawk, she travels throughout the Rocky Mountains in search of injustice, determined to stamp it out wherever it-s found. The stakes are raised when two young boys are kidnapped and Sage is forced to work with Marshall Parker Timmons to rescue them. But Sage may ultimately get more than she bargained for.In this exciting historical romance set in the late 1800s, murder, intrigue, kidnapping, and questions of faith will keep you in suspense until the final words of this A Woman Called Sage4. I had a hard time getting into this book, but I actually enjoyed it. I rate it 4 stars.