Book Review - Sons of Blackbird Mountain by Joanne Bischof + Giveaway

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After the tragic death of her husband, Aven Norgaard decides to give up her life in Norway. She travels to Blackbird Mountain to become a housekeeper for her husband's family. When she arrives she finds three grown men on the farm. Aven was expecting to help care for three children. As she adjusts to life living with the brothers, she learns the brothers make a living by brewing hard cider.

Aven's appearance at the farm has the two youngest brothers at odds. They are both in love with Aven and want to marry her. Haakon, the youngest is bold and passionate. While Thor is a gentle deaf and mute giant who drinks to cope with his pain. Will the love for Aven tear the two brothers apart? Will she be able to find the solace she is looking for?

I enjoyed that this novel had a character who had disabilities. I thought the author portrayed Thor's challenges and frustrations in a humanizing and sympathetic way. I enjoyed reading the novel but, at times I felt like it was a bit slow and boring. I felt like novel could have more action/drama, instead of the fluff.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**

Title: Sons of Blackbird Mountain
Author: Joanne Bischof
Genre: Historical Romance
After the tragic death of her husband, Aven Norgaard is beckoned to give up her life in Norway to become a housekeeper in the rugged hills of Nineteenth-Century Appalachia. Upon arrival, she finds herself in the home of her late husband’s cousins—three brothers who make a living by brewing hard cider on their three-hundred acre farm. Yet even as a stranger in a foreign land, Aven has hope to build a new life in this tight-knit family.
But her unassuming beauty disrupts the bond between the brothers. The youngest two both desire her hand, and Aven is caught in the middle, unsure where—and whether—to offer her affection. While Haakon is bold and passionate, it is Thor who casts the greatest spell upon her. Though Deaf, mute, and dependent on hard drink to cope with his silent pain, Thor possesses a sobering strength.
As autumn ushers in the apple harvest, the rift between Thor and Haakon deepens and Aven faces a choice that risks hearts. Will two brothers’ longing for her quiet spirit tear apart a family? Can she find a tender belonging in this remote, rugged, and unfamiliar world?
A haunting tale of struggle and redemption, Sons of Blackbird Mountain is a portrait of grace in a world where the broken may find new life through the healing mercy of love.

Click here to purchase your copy!

About the Author

 

JOANNE BISCHOF is an ACFW Carol Award and ECPA Christy Award-winning author. She writes deeply layered fiction that tugs at the heartstrings. She was honored to receive the San Diego Christian Writers Guild Novel of the Year Award in 2014 and in 2015 was named Author of the Year by the Mount Hermon conference. Joanne’s 2016 novel, The Lady and the Lionheart, received an extraordinary 5 Star TOP PICK! from RT Book Reviews, among other critical acclaim. She lives in the mountains of Southern California with her three children. Visit her online at JoanneBischof.com, Facebook: Author, JoanneBischof, Instagram: @JoanneBischof.

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Joanne is giving away

Grand prize of a country crate, a jar of apple butter, a bag of gummy berries, journal, bath salts, honey spoons, copper earrings, and a blackbird sign!!

Click below to enter.  
https://promosimple.com/ps/d140/sons-of-blackbird-mountain-celebration-tour-giveaway

Book Review - The Dinner List by Rebecca Serle

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Imagine for one dinner, you can invite any five people,  dead or alive, to have dinner with you. While the possibility is endless, most people already have a set list of people, they would choose. "The Dinner List", is about a young woman, who on her thirtieth birthday is surrounded by her five chosen dinner companions. Sabrina, at first, is bewildered to be surrounded by these people, especially by, Audrey Hepburn's presence. However, she quickly learns, there is a reason, why everyone has gathered here. Will Sabrina be able to figure out the reason behind the dinner? 

The novel had an interesting premise about choices people make. As we learn in the novel, each of the characters has a specific reason for being there. I felt the novel was well done, even if it was a bit predictable. The characters were all lovable and flawed but readers can't help to love them. I found the ending to be interesting and different. I am looking forward to reading other books by the author. 

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - The Christmas Angel Project by Melody Carlson

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Abby's book club is composed of five very different women who become close friends after joining the book club together. They find they enjoy each other's company more than they enjoy the books. However, when Abby passes away unexpectedly, the group is struck in turmoil. She was the nucleus that held the group together along with being the support each of the women needed. They used to rely on Abby for motivation and advice along with being a mother figure to the youngest member. The group is unsure they can continue without her, but they receive a surprise gift from Abby. Will this surprise gift be able to fire up her group? Will the women  be able to find inspiration and companionship with each other?

I have read a few other Melody Carlson's Christmas stories and this one doesn't disappoint. Like the others its a very light read, but leaves your heart and soul warmed. Perfect for the holiday season because it allows us to remember that friends and family are important and to give back to others without expecting anything in return.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - All Things Now Living (Seventh Daughter, #1) by Rondi Bauer Olson

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Amy doesn't like to see any animals suffer or die. She refuses to hurt animals, but she can't see herself feeling sorry for the abominable inhabitants of New Lithisle. The dome the inhabitants built to shield themselves from diseases is predicted to collapse and Amy was taught this is God's will. 

While on a trip with her father, Amy becomes trapped New Lithisle. She is kept hostage where she meets, Daniel. He is beautiful and Amy is attracted to him, but he has been modified. Amy is conflicted upon saving New Lithisle and its inhabitants or standing by idly while the residents suffer through God's curse. Will Amy help save the New Lithisle? Will Amy be able to see the humanity in all of God's creatures?

The story had an interesting premise, but I couldn't get into the story. I found the characters confusing and have conflicting ideas. For example, Amy doesn't like to see animals die, but doesn't care about the people about New Lithisle. She constantly judges them by their exterior even though they go out of their way to help her. Daniel is conflicted about doing what Amy wants and what is best for the New Lithisle. He trusts some people, but the others, he judges harshly. He was afraid of Leroy and wanted to leave him behind, but when Scout threaten Amy, he had no problem having Scout tag along with them. The characters all have a strange dynamic with each other. One minute, they trust each other the next they are shooting the other person.

I also found the story to be confusing and convoluted. I had to re-read several sentences and I still couldn't follow. I felt that some of the story could have used more details or backstory. Like more about Amy's sisters and why there are seven of them along with why Amy has a bounty on her. They keep mentioning them, but they never come into contact with each other.  Also, what is this pandemic, they keep talking about since they became immune to the swine flu. What happened to her scientist mother? The dialogue felt a bit weird and not authentic. I have read a few dystopian novels and while I am not a fan of the genre, I do generally like them. However, this one doesn't keep my attention for very long.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - A Short History of the Girl Next Door by Jared Reck

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Matt Wainwright has the best laid intentions, but is constantly sabotaged by the thoughts in his head. Matt is in love with his best friend, Tabby but he has a hard time articulating his feelings into words and actions.  He feels only comfortable  in Mr. Ellis's English class where he can write to express his inner thoughts and feelings.

If everything worked the way that Matt planned that he would be dating Tabby. Except, life doesn't work like that for Matt. Instead, Tabby falls in love with Liam Branson. An unfortunate accident causes Matt to be sidelined and without the ability to express his feelings even in his English class. Will Matt be able to get out of his head and work through his feelings?

I thought this was going to be a romantic comedy where the best friends either fall in love or they let each other be with other people. However, I was drawn how this wasn't like many other YA romance novels I have read. It had a touch of humor while being realistic enough that you can feel each the character's pain. My only qualm is that Tabby's two love interests both never stuck up for her when she was being made teased. We have read in the backstory that Tabby usually sticks up for Matt, but it seems that her love interest, Liam would be the one to defend her. 

It was a very interesting read and I can't wait to read other works by the author.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - Gathering the Threads by Cindy Woodsmall

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The final novel in the "Amish of Summer Grove" series, shows the hardship Ariana Brenneman faces after she returns from the Englisch world.  After she experienced the outside world, Ariana is now questioning the old ways she was bought up and it causes chaos among her family and friends. Her Amish family is unsure why their sweet daughter now questions their authority while her Englisch family wonders why she blindly follows the faith. Will Ariana be able to restore peace among her family and herself?

While, I have not read the other two novels in the series, the author includes a few page summary of what happened in the two prior books. I am not sure if it's because I didn't read the other two books or the author's writing style, but I just couldn't get into the book. I like how this book had a different take on the Amish lifestyle and drama, but it felt like torture reading this book. It was slow and kept going on and on without adding to the story.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - Ascension of Larks

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Maggie Henry has her dream career that she always wanted. However, lately she feels like her life is missing something except when she visits her two best friends and their kids at their summer home. When tragedy strikes and kills one of her friends, she must travel to a remote island to care for her friend and her young children. Maggie used to love to come out to island spend time with the Firelli family but now with the death of  the only man she has ever loved; she finds it hard to be at peace. As Maggie work to help pick up the pieces Marco's death left behind, she learns to appreciate things that she took for granted and open her heart to love again.

The novel was a pleasant read that keep me entertained until the last page. It showed a different side of tragedy while the recurring conflict of family versus personal ambition breathe life into the novel. While it was an enjoyable read, I wasn't completely in love with the novel but I would still be interested in reading other books by the author.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - The Elusive Miss Ellison (Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace, #1) by Carolyn Miller

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The ailing owner of Hampton Hall has passed away but when the new young Earl takes over, all the villagers are excited. Except, for the reverend's daughter, Lavinia Ellison. She believes in taking care of the poor and the sick while the Earl of Hawkesbury is the exact opposite. He refuses to take his responsibilities seriously instead pushes it off to an incompetent assistant along with nodding off in church.  When Nicholas Stamford arrived at Gloucestershire, his main goal was taking care of his obligations and not to get invested in the country bumpkins. However, when he meets Lavinia, he is starts to realize he cares but in his heart he is overrun by guilt. Can Lavinia and Nicholas put aside their past to find happiness? Will Nicholas be able to find redemption and Lavinia be able to forgive?

The novel which takes place in 19th century England was an interesting read. While I enjoyed the writer's writing, I found the story to be quite frustrating and boring. For a woman, who people claim to be a "superior woman", she acts rather dumb and when she doesn't get her way; a spoiled child.  The plot seemed repetitive and seemed like the two main characters kept putting their ego over their hearts.

Book Review - The Fifth Petal: A Novel by Brunonia Barry

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On Halloween night, a young teenage boy named Billy Barnes, dies mysteriously. John Rafferty, the newest Salem's chief of police is called to investigate the death. As John investigates the death of Billy, there has been alarming similarities of his death and the town's infamous cold case called "the Goddess Murders".  When the only survivor for the "Goddess Murders" return to Salem, John must rely on Callie Cahill's help to find the murder. What is the connection between "The Goddess Murders" and Billy? What role does Callie play in the murders? Will the  murderer strike again?

The novel is the second book in the Lace Reader collection. However, each book can be read as a standalone and I have not read "Lace Reader" yet. The novel is brilliantly written and keeps reader engage in this magical "whodunit".  However, I felt that the novel had a lot of fluff and minute details that could have been left out and certain parts of the story was just brushed over that could have used more details. A definite good read but I felt was unnecessary too long.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - The Dog Who Was There by Ron Marasco

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Barley is an ordinary dog but one day experiences the extraordinary. Barley struggles to live in the first century Jerusalem. As an abandoned pup, he finds solace with a woodcarver and his wife. When the teachings of the Messiah reaches their door of his master, he learns to forgiveness even when he navigates the dangerous city of Judea. Where he meets a homeless petty criminal named Samid. Together, they face a host of new struggles and experiences. How does Barley crosses path with the Messiah? How does the teachings affect Barley's outlook on life?

The novel had an interesting story. However, I found the book very boring and dragged on towards the middle.  The ending was heart felt and inspiring but the novel had more gruel and pain, then I thought was necessary. A decent story but I don't think I would pick up this book again. 

**Disclosure I received a free unedited copy  of this book**

Book Review - Another Day, Another Dali (Serena Jones Mysteries Book #2) by Sandra Orchard

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A valuable Salvador Dali painting goes missing and FBI Special Agent Serena Jones is asked to investigate the disappearance by her grandmother.  Unfortunately, her grandmother's friend wants to keep the forgery a secret. Serena hopes that since her grandmother is asking her for help, that she can finally earn her grandmother's affection. As Serena digs deeper into the case, it becomes clear that one of owner's family members might be behind the crime. Who is behind the forgery? Is the forger behind the murder of Serena's grandfather?

The novel is the second book in the Serena Jones Mysteries series. While each book can be read individually, I found it helpful and entertaining to read each book in the series. I like how this book focused less on how desirable Serena is and how men throw themselves at her which was very prominent in the first book. Along, with the character developments but once again, she has the two "main" men who both vie for her attention and she brushes them off without a reason why. The novel is fast paced and interesting but it left me craving more story line than just fluff.  If you a fan of the first novel or Sandra Orchard,  you would enjoy this book.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - Eden: The Animals Parable by Keith Korman

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Readers will be immersed in a intricate retelling of the Gospels in a new way.  We learn of Jesus and his disciples and his journey through the Holy Land through eyes of the animals that follow him; most notably his loyal dog and companion named Eden. Jesus's flock is joined by a donkey, small lambs, field mice, and a fox who follows but unsure what to do. The animals witness the divine events and don't follow understand what they see. 

When I first received this book, I thought it was something completely different. I don't understand how the first part of the book is a part of the Gospel and felt it could have been left out. The retelling was an interesting but difficult to read and understand during some parts. While, the cover looks kid-friendly, I am not sure if I would share this book with young readers.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - The Cherished Quilt (An Amish Heirloom Novel) by Amy Clipston

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Christopher Hochstetler leaves Ohio after a family tragedy. He is heartbroken and overwhelmed with grief and guilt. When he arrives in Bird-in-Hand, he puts up a cold exterior and tries to keep to himself as he tries to work in his uncle's leather shop. However, that doesn't stop Emily Fisher from trying to befriend him. Their budding friendship slowly turns to love when Emily and Chris share their secrets with each other.  Emily decides to make a quilt as a token of their friendship, however Chris leaves for Ohio after a family emergency without telling Emily.  When Emily sends Chris the complete quilt, would Chris be able to accept the token of her love? Will Chris join the church so  they can be together?

The third novel in the series was beautifully written and fun to read.  I like that the author included a family tree and a dictionary for Amish translation. My only qualm with the novel is that I felt like the quilt was an afterthought and not much of the story revolved around it. A good read  for anyone who likes happy light reading Amish novels.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - Of Stillness and Storm by Michele Phoenix

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Lauren and her husband, Sam took ten years to achieve their dream of visiting remote regions of Nepal to spread the word of their ministry. Sam and Lauren have a unique situation; Sam travels to the Himalayas for three weeks each month for his life calling. While, Lauren and their 13 year old son, Ryan stays behind continuing life without Sam. Both Lauren and Ryan miss the states and find it hard to cope with their current poverty living situation. They feel that their life is unfulfilled and filled with isolation. Their life gets more challenging when someone from Lauren's past reaches out to her. This further fueling the tension between Lauren, Sam and Ryan. How will Lauren, Sam and Ryan be able to cope with their current situation? What happens when one person's loyalty is divided and it becomes life or death?

A heartbreaking novel of a women who is trying to do good by everyone. She is being pulled by her husband to follow what seems like his destiny and make it hers as well. She notices  her once happy go lucky son is now sullen and keeps to himself . While, her good friend now suffers from a disease that can end his life and wants to amend and reconnect. Lauren struggles to make the correct decision and in the end, she realizes that she should have done it the first place but unfortunately, that decision didn't come without many dire consequences. This beautifully written novel leaves the reader fighting for Lauren and her family. 

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - A Love Made New (Amish of Birch Creek #3) by Kathleen Fuller

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Abigail Schrock has been through enough heartache for a lifetime. Her mother and father were taken from her after a tragic accident while her sister is still recovering. She is hopeful that her current boyfriend will make everything better by marrying her. Unfortunately, he breaks up with her and tells her there is someone else. Asa Bontrager leaves his home and moves to Birch Creek because he believes it's God's purpose. He doesn't understand why God is telling him to follow Abigail when she wants nothing to do with him. Will the two be able to find true love?

The novel was an interesting and quick read. While, it read like almost every Amish romance novel, I like how they included back stories for the support characters. On a side note, there is a lot of characters which might make the novel confusing at first especially if you didn't read the other novels. However, the novels each can be read standalone.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - The Remnant by Monte Wolverton

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The  year is 2069 and  the Apocalypse has come and gone. After, a devastating war that wiped out 90% of the world population and resources, religion was blamed as the root of all evil. People who chose to continue follow their religion are punished by being sent to a work camp. Grant Cochrin lives at the petroleum camp with his family and friend for a majority of his life. After, a strange encounter, Grant starts questioning his life and wonders if there is more to life than he currently knows. With a band of friends and family, they set out to the unknown. Will Grant and the others be able to find a Christian group like them? What evils lie beyond their borders?

The book had an interesting premise about religion and  the state of the world after an end of days situation. The writing seemed a discombobulated along with having flashbacks at random points of the novel without any lead way to it. The story seemed a bit longer than it needed to be and the characters didn't seem authentic. The writing felt forced especially towards the end with fluff over detailed pieces peppered in.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**