{Revell Blog Tour) The Mistress of Tall Acre by Laura Frantz

ABOUT THE BOOK: The American Revolution is finally over, and Sophie Menzies is starved for good news. When her nearest neighbor, General Seamus Ogilvy, finally comes home to Tall Acre, she hopes it is a sign of better days to come. But the general is now a widower with a small daughter in desperate need of a mother. Nearly destitute, Sophie agrees to marry Seamus and become the mistress of Tall Acre in what seems a safe, sensible arrangement. But when a woman from the general's past returns without warning, the ties that bind this fledgling family together will be strained to the utmost. When all is said and done, who will be the rightful mistress of Tall Acre?

Triumph and tragedy, loyalty and betrayal--readers find it all in the rich pages of this newest historical novel from the talented pen of Laura Frantz. Her careful historical details immerse the reader in the story world, and her emotional writing and finely tuned characters never cease to enchant fans both old and new.
MY STAR RATING: 5 Stars

MY REVIEW:  Laura Frantz has done it again! She has penned a truly delightful story, in the special way that only she can!  There are so many wonderful things to say, but if I were to choose one word to describe The Mistress of Tall Acre, it would be captivating! Truly, this is the same word that I would use to describe every novel by Laura Frantz.  She is a master storyteller, well known for her lyrical prose, and she draws the reader in from the very first line. It's one of the highlights of my year to finally get my hands on Laura's latest book, and The Mistress of Tall Acre did not disappoint! 

Are you looking for beautifully rich historical detail?  Are you looking for well drawn characters that you actually care about? Are you looking for a bit of mystery, suspense, and intrigue?  Are you looking for the element of faith woven effortlessly through the story? How about a sweet, tender, realistic romance? You'll definitely find that here, and so much more! 

Laura Frantz takes the reader on a journey, where you'll feel as if you've stepped back in time, and early America comes to life in vivid detail. As always, I appreciate every word, and every sweet  "morsel" of the story . . . Laura's books are to be savored, and they truly are a treat for anyone who appreciates top-notch writing, that will leave your heart pounding, take your breath away, and warm your heart. I've said it before, and I'll say it again . . . you do not want to miss the stellar writing of Laura Frantz!

** Thank you to Revell for a copy of the book in exchange of my honest review. **

{Revell Blog Tour} Love's Fortune by Laura Frantz

About the book:


With two very different horizons stretched out before her, one young woman stands on the cusp of an unknown future.
Sheltered since birth at her Kentucky home, Rowena Ballantyne has heard only whispered rumors of her grandfather Silas’s vast fortune and grand manor in Pennsylvania. Then her father, Silas’s long-estranged son, Ansel, receives a rare letter summoning him to New Hope. Rowena makes the journey with him and quickly finds herself in a whole new world— filled with family members she’s never met, dances she’s never learned, and a new side to the father she thought she knew. As she struggles to fit in during their extended stay, she finds a friend in James Sackett, the most valued steamship pilot of the Ballantyne’s shipping line. Even with his help, Rowena feels she may never be comfortable in high society. Will she go her own way . . . to her own peril?
With her signature attention to historical detail and emotional depth, Laura Frantz brings 1850s Pennsylvania alive with a tender story of loss, love, and loyalty in this final installment of the Ballatyne saga.

My Star Rating: 5 stars

My Review:

It's bittersweet to see the Ballantyne saga come to an end, but reassuring to know that the pages can be revisited again, and again.  Continuing on with her superb writing style that readers have come to love, Laura Frantz has penned a beautiful work of art here in the pages of Love's Fortune.  As with all of her novels, the reader is rewarded with a unique reading experience . . . one that transports you to another place in time, and one that captivates the senses, as well as the heart.  With rich details, and literary prose that takes your breath away, Laura Frantz continues to be one of my favorite authors, and one that I frequently recommend.

Love's Fortune is full of rich, historic detail, that historical fiction fans are sure to savor and enjoy.  The characters are well drawn, as is the setting.  The romantic scenes are beautifully done, and definitely worthy the wait!  The romantic tension between the characters is as it should be, and leaves you quickly turning the pages to see exactly how things are going to turn out.

Love's Fortune is a fine conclusion to the Ballantyne Legacy series, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to historical fiction fans, as well as to anyone who already loves Laura Frantz' work. It's a satisfying read, one that I'm privileged to have had the opportunity to read. The writing is top notch, stellar, and not to be missed!

**Thank you to Revell for a review copy.**
Available September 2014 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

 

{Revell Blog Tour}: Dare to Love Again by Julie Lessman

About the Book:

 

Spunky Allison McClare is determined to be a fearless, independent woman, resorting to a mammoth hat pin for protection on her way to and from the school where she teaches. But when she takes a notion to explore the wild Barbary Coast she quickly discovers she is no match for rum-soaked brute strength.

Detective Nick Barone would rather do almost anything than teach this petite socialite jiu-jitsu, but it seems he has little choice in the matter. Sparks fly every time the two meet until a grudging friendship develops into something deeper. But when Nick suddenly leaves town, Allison realizes he's a fraud just like all the rest of the men she's cared for. Does she dare love again?

The lushness of the glorious Gilded Age beautifully showcases Lessman's passion as a writer in this engaging love story written with humor and heart. From the glamour of San Francisco's Nob Hill to the seedy gambling dens of the Barbary Coast, Dare to Love Again is a journey to find a love that never fails. Fans will love revisiting the world of the cousins McClare, and new readers will seek more of Julie's passion-filled novels.

My Star Rating:  5 Stars

My Review:

 

What a fantastic story! Julie Lessman has proven again why she is one of my top favorite authors! Dare to Love Again is a fine example of all the things I've come to love from a Julie Lessman novel.

Stellar dialogue and the playful (and not so playful) banter, shines brightly as one of my favorite elements of all of Julie's novels; this novel being no exception.

The San Francisco setting is superb, and the amount of research and detail that has went into this novel is top notch. 1903 San Francisco truly comes to life, and I was left feeling as if I had jumped into the story along with Allison, Nick, and the rest of the McClare family. From the danger of the Barbary Coast, the excitement of the cable cars and Chinatown, the smell of crab on the wharf, and the fine elegance of Nob Hill, Julie has left me longing for a trip to San Francisco, but more importantly, she's left me anxious for the third installment of The Heart of San Francisco series.

Last, but certainly not least, I must say how effortlessly the spiritual thread is woven throughout the story. The messages of God's love, forgiveness, and redemption are portrayed beautifully, and it's one of the elements that I appreciate most. Bravo, Julie!

**Thank you to Revell for providing me with a free copy, in exchange for my honest opinion.**

Music Monday: {Oceans} by Hillsong United

Hello, dear friends!  I hope this post finds you doing well, and enjoying the beginning of a brand-new week!

I first heard this song about a week ago, and the beautiful voice and sound pulled me out of a daydream, as I sat at a red light.  I thought, "Wow, who is this!?  She has an amazing voice!"  I pushed the info button, to find that this song is by Hillsong United.  As you may know, the Hillsong United team "has become an evolving collaboration of pastors, worship leaders, musicians and songwriters, all bound by the common goal of giving voice to a generation who is passionate about God," so not all of their songs are sung by the same person.  This particular song features the beautiful voice of Taya Smith.  As always, I pray that you'll be blessed.  Enjoy your week!

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding;   
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths."  Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV

". . . above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one."  Ephesians 6:16 NKJV

You call me out upon the waters
The great unknown, where feet may fail
And there I find You in the mystery
In oceans deep, my faith will stand

And I will call upon Your name
And keep my eyes above the waves
When oceans rise
My soul will rest in Your embrace
For I am Yours, and You are mine

Your grace abounds in deepest waters
Your sovereign hand will be my guide
Where feet may fail and fear surrounds me
You've never failed, and You won't start now

Chorus

Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders
Let me walk upon the waters
Wherever You would call me
Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander
And my faith will be made stronger
In the presence of my Savior x 4

I will call upon Your name
Keep my eyes above the waves
My soul will rest in Your embrace
I am Yours, and You are mine
I am Yours, and You are mine
I am Yours, and You are mine
I am Yours, and You are mine

Music Monday: {In the End} by Natalie Grant

Natalie Grant's new album, Hurricane, is FANTASTIC!  I love all of the songs, but the song that I'm showcasing today is definitely one of my favorites!  In the End has an awesome country, folk, bluegrass sound, and I think it's fair to say that it's one of my all-time favorite songs!  I absolutely LOVE IT -- toe-tapping, hand-clapping, and praising the Lord that we win in the end!  I hope that you love it just as much. Be sure to scroll to the bottom for the lyrics.  :-)

Enjoy and BE BLESSED!

Can’t catch a break
You’ve had your fill of old clichés
Like “Life is hard, but God is Good”
And even though it’s true
It won’t stop what you’re going through
I wish that I could say it would
But He’s outside of what you feel
It might not make sense but one day it will
There’s coming a day, the sun will always shine
He’s gonna wipe away every tear from your eyes
hold on my Brother, things are gonna get better
You’re gonna smile again
Cause we win in the end

Oh oh oh oh, oh oh oh oh oh, oh oh oh oh oh
Oh oh oh oh, oh oh oh oh oh, oh oh oh oh oh

You’re standing still
Life has handed you a bitter pill
Once again you’re on your face
You got questions
Plenty of secret confessions
Wondering if you’ve run out of grace
But He’s outside of what you feel
This life is just a moment but our forever is seal, oh yeah
There’s coming a day, the sun will always shine
He’s gonna wipe away every tear from your eyes
hold on my Brother, things are gonna get better
You’re gonna smile again
Cause we win in the end
it won’t be about the streets of gold, pearly gates
Arms and wings, diamond Lace
All in all is that He’s gonna hold you hold me
Heartache will disappear
Questions will be come clear
Life will all make sense in the end

Oh oh oh oh, oh oh oh oh oh, oh oh oh oh oh
We win in the end
Oh oh oh oh, oh oh oh oh oh, oh oh oh oh oh

There’s coming a day, the sun will always shine
He’s gonna wipe away every tear from your eyes
hold on my Brother, things are gonna get better
You’re gonna smile again
Cause we win in the end

Oh oh oh oh, oh oh oh oh oh, oh oh oh oh oh
We win in the end
Oh oh oh oh, oh oh oh oh oh, oh oh oh oh oh

Glory Glory Hallelujah
Glory Glory Hallelujah
Glory Glory Hallelujah
We win in the end
Glory Glory Hallelujah
Glory Glory Hallelujah
Glory Glory Hallelujah
We win in the end

Music Monday: {Overcomer} by Mandisa

Need encouragement today?  No matter what you're facing, God is always with you!  Hang onto His promises!  This song will lift you up, encourage you, and remind you that as long as you have Christ . . . you have HOPE!  Keep pressing on, He's there to help you . . .

For I am the Lord your God
    who takes hold of your right hand
and says to you, Do not fear;
    I will help you.

Isaiah 41:13 NIV

Enjoy, and be blessed! 

A Book Review: Revell Blog Tour {Love's Awakening} by Laura Frantz

About the Book:
Ellie Ballantyne, youngest child of Silas and Eden, has left finishing school. But back at her family home in Pittsburgh, Ellie finds that her parents are away on a long trip and her siblings don't seem to want her to stay. When she opens a day school for young ladies, she begins tutoring the incorrigible daughter of the enemy Turlock clan. The Turlocks are slaveholders and whiskey magnates, envious of the powerful Ballantynes and suspicious of their abolitionist leanings. As Ellie becomes increasingly tangled with the Turlocks, she finds herself falling in love with an impossible future--and Jack Turlock, a young man striving to free himself from his family's violent legacy. How can she betray her family and side with the enemy? And will Jack ever allow her into his world?

Masterful storyteller Laura Frantz continues to unfold the stirring saga of the Ballantyne family in this majestic tale of love, loyalty, and the makings of a legacy. With rich descriptions of the people who settled and civilized a wild landscape, Frantz weaves a tapestry of characters and places that stick with the reader long after they turn the last page.

My Star Rating: 5 Stars

My Review:
Masterful storyteller, Laura Frantz, has done it again! In this second installment of The Ballantyne Legacy, we witness the continuing journey of the Ballantyne family as they endure life's trials and joys.  Set among the backdrop of 1822 Pennsylvania, the story comes to life with vivid descriptions, and melodic and expressive prose that leaves me captivated at every page. 

With its rich, historical detail, and a fine cast of characters, I was drawn into another place and time.  There's so much to love about this story, it's difficult to know where to begin.  I'd have to say that while the story does start out at a relaxed pace, things certainly do pick up pace, and heat up.  With the Ballantyne and Turlock families both having a wide array of personalities amongst them, it makes for a good amount of tension and drama.  There are the characters that charm and endear you, and then others that make you cringe at their less than desirable ways.  It ends up being the perfect balance, and lends itself to a very interesting story.

In addition to tension and drama among the characters, I loved those scenes that brought a sense of danger, fear, heartache, and needless to say, . . . those moments that take your breath away and leave tears in your eyes.  There were a couple chapters where I literally found it hard to breathe -- oh, the emotion!  I was left with a pounding heart, and a feeling that I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to see how things were going to be resolved.  Laura Frantz has a true talent for making the reader truly feel the entire gamut of emotions.  From heart-pounding tension, to sigh-worthy romance, this novel has it all . . . a literary banquet, to be sure!

I highly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys well written, historical fiction with rich detail, well drawn characters, and a sweet love story to win your heart.

**Thank you to Revell for a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion.**
**Available September 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.**

About the Author: 

From Laura's Website: "I was born and raised in Kentucky, living first in Ashland, Mammoth Cave, Bowling Green, and then Lexington. But my heart has always been in Berea, Madison County, the place my family has resided since the 18th-century. I came to know Christ there at the age of 12, was baptized, and spent my childhood roaming through the woods and swimming in the rivers of my books.
My earliest memories are of the public library, standing in front of shelves filled with those little biographies of famous historical figures like Daniel Boone and George Washington and Sacajawea. I began scribbling stories at age 7 and thankfully never stopped. My passion then and now is history and all the wonders of past centuries.
I attended college at Denison University in Ohio and also in England, living in a manor/castle and studying the American Revolution from the British perspective. Shakespeare and 18th-century literature form the backbone of my English degree. Strangely enough, I only took one creative writing class.
It was never a desire of mine to be published. I simply love to write for the sheer joy of writing – and that was enough. But as Proverbs 16:9 says, “The heart of a man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.”
I hope my books bless you."

Music Monday: {Good to Me} by Audrey Assad

Even though Audrey Assad's new album, Fortunate Fall, came out back in August, I just picked it up a couple weeks ago. For some reason the release date escaped me. Needless to say, I'm thrilled that I've added this one to my iTunes collection. It is stunningly beautiful, and truly a feast for the ears! I highly recommend it, and I'm so happy to share one of the tracks with you here today.  I pray that it blesses you. Enjoy! (Be sure to scroll to the bottom to see the lyrics)

As I listen to this song, I can't help but think of Psalm 23 . . .

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.

  He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters, 

     he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
    for his name’s sake. 

 Even though I walk
    through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
    for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.

 You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.  
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
    forever.

He is so good to us . . . amen?

 
I put all my hope in the truth of Your promise,
and I steady my heart on the ground of Your goodness
When I'm bowed down with sorrow, I will lift up Your name,
and the foxes in the vineyard will not steal my joy

Because You are good to me, good to me
You are good to me, good to me
You are good to me

And I lift my eyes to the hills where my help is found
And Your voice fills the night, raise my head up to hear the sound
And though fires burn all around me, I will praise You, my God,
and the foxes in the vineyard will not steal my joy

Because You are good to me, good to me
You are good to me, good to me
You are good to me
Blessed are - You are good to me, good to me
You are good to me, good to me
You are good to me

Your goodness and mercy shall follow me all my life
I trust in Your promise
Yeah, Your goodness and mercy shall follow me all my life
I trust in Your promise
Your goodness and mercy shall follow me all my life
I will trust in Your promise 

Music Monday: {Shine} by Christa Wells

With the August 2013 release of Christa Wells new album, Feed Your Soul, comes a new video for the song Shine.  The entire album is beautiful and captivating, and I highly recommend it!  It's truly one of my favorites, as are all of her albums.

You can read a thoughtful review of the album here at HighWire Daze.  In addition, there are currently seven of her songs available to listen to at her website, just follow this link to Christa Wells Music.

I pray you have a beautiful week.  Enjoy and be blessed!


Yes, it’s hard to believe
When you’re well aware that you’re not what you mean to be
And your house is full of unfinished rooms
’Cause you’re fond of starts, but you find it hard to follow through
You think you’re recognized by your faults
 But the mirror that you hold is false
’Cause you shine
He shines His light through a prism
We give back what we’re given
To color this, to color this
To color this world, color this world
 Be the friend you never had
 Be the one to take a stand
Say it your way, say it your way
Say it your own way
And it’s hard to believe
That I count as much as those on either side of me
’Cause I don’t have it, whatever it takes
 To be like them, they are gifted in so many ways
Yes, we could lay our talents in the earth
We could pile on the doubt like dirt
Or we can shine
He shines His light through a prism
We give back what we’re given
To color this, to color this
To color this world, color this world
 Be the friend you never had
 Be the one to take a stand
Say it your way, say it your way
Say it your own way
Shine, we shine, His light refracted
Shine, we shine His light refracted

Music Monday: {Your Grace Finds Me} by Matt Redman

Good Morning, and Happy Tuesday!  My Music Monday post is a day late . . . well, actually, it just might be a month late.  :::wink, wink:::  Please forgive me for being MIA.  I've been doing a lot of subbing since school started, and on the list goes.  Always so much to do, as I know you can relate.  I pray you all are doing well.  :)

I couldn't wait to bring this song to you, so here you have it . . . on a Tuesday, and it's actually the release day for this album, so you'll be able to pick it up on iTunes!  :)

If you haven't heard You're Grace Finds Me, by Matt Redman, prepare to be WOWED!  This is powerful worship here folks, and it's one of those songs that just washes over you and you feel the presence of the Holy Spirit.  And if you're inclined to tears, this ought to do it.

God's grace is completely AMAZING, and this song is a celebration of that grace.  Praising the Lord today for His grace . . . it never ceases to leave me in awe.  Praying you enjoy the song.  Be blessed! ~Michelle

Romans 3:20-24 NKJV

Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin. But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,  being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,

A Book Review -- Blog Tour: {Bleeding Heart} by Amber Stokes + A GIVEAWAY

About the Book: 

Five bleeding hearts. One profound journey. 



Summer 1886



Sally Clay’s livelihood has been snatched away, but in its place arises an opportunity to escape from her sordid past and an unrelenting, unwanted suitor. Boarding a train with a heartsick rancher and an enigmatic miner, she leaves Virginia City behind and heads to Northern California, waiting for the chance to make right what went wrong three long years before.

But the road to revenge is far from smooth. Sally soon learns that the jagged pieces of a broken heart can far too easily wound the hearts of others – and hers isn’t the only heart that’s broken.

Tragedy and fear dog her steps as she flees from the redwood forests to the high desert and back again. Will her bleeding heart ever find a way and a place to heal?



A desperate soiled dove. Three men who come to care for her. One man determined to claim her.

All on a journey that will show them what true love really involves.

About the Author:  

Amber Stokes has a Bachelor of Science degree in English and a passion for the written word – from blogging to writing poetry, short stories, and novels. After her brief time at college in Oregon, she is now back home among the redwoods of Northern California, living life one day at a time and pursuing her passion via freelance editing and self-publishing her debut novel, Bleeding Heart.

You can buy Bleeding Heart here. 

Visit the Bleeding Heart website here. 

Visit Amber's Blog here.

My Star Rating: 4 1/2 Stars

My Review:

When Amber approached me last year to read what she had written so far on her Bleeding Heart manuscript, I jumped at the chance!  It was with great pleasure that I read the beginning of this wonderful story, and it was with great pleasure that I agreed to read and review the final copy of Bleeding Heart for Amber's blog tour!  I count it an honor and a privilege to have been a part of Amber's writing journey.

The much anticipated debut of Bleeding Heart did not leave me disappointed!  From the opening pages, to the very end, I was captivated and intrigued by the characters and the individual journey's they were on.  I love how Amber tied the theme of broken hearts throughout the novel, and I enjoyed seeing how things unfolded for each of the characters.

With a detailed setting, well-drawn characters, and elements to pull on your heartstrings, Amber has penned a fine debut!  Two of the things I loved about the writing, was that in one moment I could feel the fear and tension happening on the page, and in another moment I could feel the bittersweet tenderness playing out for the characters.  The fact that I was brought to tears at one point is a very good thing -- it's a sign of VERY good writing, in my book!

I look forward to all that Amber has in store for us in the future, and I recommend Bleeding Heart without hesitation.

And now for the GIVEAWAY! a Rafflecopter giveaway

**With much thanks to Amber Stokes for providing me a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion and participation in the blog tour.**

Music Monday: {Don't Forget His Love} by Ellie Holcomb

Good morning, friends!  Today I'm slowing things down a bit with this beautiful song of praise by Ellie Holcomb.  I first heard this song over at Boo Mama's blog.  If you're not familiar with Boo Mama, her name is Sophie Hudson, and she has a huge heart for God and people.  Plus, she is SO funny!  She has a brand-new book out titled, A Little Salty to Cut the Sweet, that I recently shared here on August 6th.

Okay, now back to the song!  This song's lyrics get their inspiration from Psalm 103, and it's just beautiful!  Ellie's voice is amazing, and so unique.  I've been listening to her first EP, Magnolia, for a couple weeks now, and LOVE it!  I'm really looking forward to getting her newly released EP, With You Now . . . like today!! You can listen to it here, as well as find out how to get a FREE download of the Magnolia album.  It's that great!?  I thought so, too!

Her husband also has a band called, Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors, and she sings with them as well.  And I just found out last week that she's featured on Christa Wells' new album, Feed Your Soul (track 2, Have Your Eyes Open).  She's one busy and talented lady!

I pray that this song blesses you today.  Enjoy!


 

Psalm 103

¹ Praise the Lord, my soul;
    all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
² Praise the Lord, my soul,
    and forget not all his benefits—
³ who forgives all your sins
    and heals all your diseases,
⁴ who redeems your life from the pit
    and crowns you with love and compassion,
⁵ who satisfies your desires with good things
    so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

⁶ The Lord works righteousness
    and justice for all the oppressed.

⁷ He made known his ways to Moses,
    his deeds to the people of Israel:
⁸ The Lord is compassionate and gracious,
    slow to anger, abounding in love.
⁹ He will not always accuse,
    nor will he harbor his anger forever;
¹⁰ he does not treat us as our sins deserve
    or repay us according to our iniquities.
¹¹ For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
    so great is his love for those who fear him;
¹² as far as the east is from the west,
    so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

¹³ As a father has compassion on his children,
    so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him;
¹⁴ for he knows how we are formed,
    he remembers that we are dust.
¹⁵ The life of mortals is like grass,
    they flourish like a flower of the field;
¹⁶ the wind blows over it and it is gone,
    and its place remembers it no more.
¹⁷ But from everlasting to everlasting
    the Lord’s love is with those who fear him,
    and his righteousness with their children’s children—
¹⁸ with those who keep his covenant
    and remember to obey his precepts.

¹⁹ The Lord has established his throne in heaven,
    and his kingdom rules over all.

²⁰ Praise the Lord, you his angels,
    you mighty ones who do his bidding,
    who obey his word.
²¹ Praise the Lord, all his heavenly hosts,
    you his servants who do his will.
²² Praise the Lord, all his works
    everywhere in his dominion.

Praise the Lord, my soul.

Music Monday: {One Drop} by Plumb

 

I heard this catchy little tune on KLOVE last week, and loved it instantly!  It's a feel good, dance and sing, put the top down kind of song.  A perfect song to get you going on a Monday morning.  In describing this song, Plumb says, "It takes a little bit of good, to do a whole lot of great."

"You know what, whatever was happening before you listened to this, take a break from it, and just have hope for a minute.  It just takes one drop." ~Plumb

Plumb is a fairly new artist for me, so I've been listening to some of the other samples from her new album, Need You Now, and they're very good!  There seems to be a wide array of sounds and themes covered on the album, and I look forward to taking a more in depth listen.  I also read a bit about her background on her Facebook page, which can be found here, and it appears that she is quite an accomplished artist.  I look forward to discovering more about her music ministry, and I hope you do too!  Enjoy and be blessed!

A Book Review: {A Little Salty to Cut the Sweet} by Sophie Hudson

About the Book:

There's nothing quite like family--and some people would say that there's nothing better. But in a world where we sometimes know more about the Kardashians than we do about the people sleeping right down the hall, it's easy to forget that walking through life with our family offers all sorts of joy wrapped up in the seemingly mundane. There's even a little bit of sacred sitting smack-dab in the middle of the ordinary. And since time's-a-wastin', we need to be careful that we don't take our people--and their stories--for granted. 

Whether it's a marathon bacon-frying session, a road trip gone hysterically wrong, or a mother-in-law who makes every trip to the grocery store an adventure, author Sophie Hudson reminds us how important it is to slow down and treasure the day-to-day encounters with the people we love the most.

Written in the same witty style as Sophie's BooMama blog, A Little Salty to Cut the Sweet is a cheerful, funny, and tender account of Sophie's very Southern family. It's a look into the real lives of real people--and a real, loving God right in the middle of it all. 

 

My Star Rating: 5 Stars

My Thoughts and Review:

What a wonderful book, filled to the brim with amazing family stories! I laughed, I cried, and then I laughed and cried some more. Sophie Hudson's writing style is real and down to earth, and as you read you get the feeling that you're right there with her at the kitchen table; just chatting away and sipping lemonade. Did I mention that she's funny!? I wish I could be Sophie's real-life friend. She. Is. A. Hoot. And the best part is, she loves Jesus, and she shares her faith beautifully in this book.

As a bonus, there are Southern, family recipes at the back of the book that I can't wait to try. They all sound so good!

So, if you're a Southerner, or a Southerner at heart, like me, you'll want to read this one as soon as possible! Well go on, whaddya y'all waitin' for?

 

Music Monday: {Coming to the Light} by More Than Rubies

More Than Rubies is made up of singer-songwriters Christa Wells and Nicole Witt.  The music is beautifully spiritual, anointed, and such a blessing to the soul.  I previously posted a song by Christa Wells that you can find here as a Music Monday selection.  I love her music, and now she's joined forces with the talented Nicole Witt, and the result is an album that is Christ centered, and glorifies God, as well as being a feast for the ears.  I highly recommend the album!  The duo gets their name from Proverbs 3:15 . . .

For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her.  

You can listen to a few of their songs here, as well as watch videos, and find show dates. 

Today, I'm posting two videos . . . in the first one, Nicole and Christa share how they met, and how they came to collaborate together.  The second is their brand-new music video for Coming to the Light.  It's AWESOME, and I'll let the song speak for itself.  I really think you're going to love it!  Let me know what you think, and sweet blessings to you as you begin a new week.  Hugs, Michelle

Music Monday: {Wanted} by Dara Maclean

If you haven't heard the brand new Dara Maclean song, you're in for a treat!  It's a fantastic song about how each and every one of us is wanted by God.  We were created for a relationship with Him, and like the song says, He made us, He knows our name, and He doesn't make mistakes. Perhaps this is a message that you really need to hear today.

YOU are wanted and loved by the Creator of the universe . . . I'd say that calls for some praise!  Amen?

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
    your works are wonderful,
    I know that full well.

Psalm 139:14

Dara is scheduled to release her sophomore album, Wanted, on September 24.  Wanted is the eagerly-awaited follow-up to Dara’s debut album, You Got My Attention, which entered the iTunes Christian & Gospel Albums chart at No. 1 in 2011 and garnered her a spot as one of their “New Artists to Watch.

Enjoy and be blessed!

 

Music Monday: {He is With Us} by Love & The Outcome

It's been awhile, but here I am with a new Music Monday post!  I first heard this one on the radio a few weeks ago, and I LOVE IT!  The lyrics, the vocals, and the sound come together perfectly for a song that's positive and uplifting!  If you ever feel like God is far away, it's a beautiful reminder that He is always with us.

So do not fear, for I am with you;
    do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
    I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:10 NIV

Love & The Outcome is a new duo, who's brand new album releases on August 27th.  Here's a little bit more about them . . .

Love & The Outcome's self-titled debut album recalls the highs and lows of the journey vocalist Jodi King and bass player/vocalist Chris Rademaker have braved since departing their homeland of Canada, risking it all to pursue their musical dreams. The album includes the husband and wife team’s debut single, "He is With Us," which skyrocketed to the Top 25 on Billboard’s Christian Songs chart. 

Praying that you enjoy the song, and have a blessed week!  Hugs, Michelle

A Book Review: {To Whisper Her Name} by Tamera Alexander

About the Book:
Set at Nashville's historic Belle Meade Plantation, the most influential thoroughbred stud farm in America's history, To Whisper Her Name weaves the struggles of real people of the post-war South with the journeys of a man and a woman scarred by betrayal.

 

Olivia Aberdeen, destitute widow of a man shot as a traitor to the South, is shunned by proper society and gratefully accepts an invitation from "Aunt" Elizabeth Harding, mistress of Belle Meade Plantation. Expecting to be the Harding's head housekeeper, Olivia is disillusioned when she learns the real reason Elizabeth's husband, Confederate General William Giles Harding, agreed to her coming. Not finding the safe haven she expects, Olivia is caught off guard by her feelings for Ridley Adam Cooper, a Southern man who seems anything but a Southern gentleman.
 
Branded a traitor by some, Ridley Cooper, a Southern son who chose to fight for the Union, is a man desperate to end the war still raging inside him. Determined to learn "the gift" that Belle Meade's head horse trainer and former slave, Bob Green, possesses, Ridley harbors secrets that threaten both their lives. 
 
As Ridley seeks to make peace within himself for "betraying" the South he loved, Olivia is determined to never be betrayed again.

My Star Rating: 5 Stars 

My Review:
Oh my!  Where to start?  As with all of Tamera's books that I've read, I loved To Whisper Her Name!  I truly can't say enough good things about it.  Every single aspect of the book just simply SHINES!  From the very first line, to the close of the book, I was captivated by the beautifully woven story.  

The blending of history and fiction come together perfectly, for a story that drew me in and kept my attention.  With vivid descriptions, colorful characters, and a setting that transported me back in time -- this has become one of my favorites for the keeper shelf!  And needless to say, it's left me longing for a visit to the Belle Meade Plantation; if only Tennessee weren't so far away.

We can't travel back in time physically, but through the well-written pages of To Whisper Her Name, we can certainly take a stroll and sit a spell . . . as if we were right there walking the grounds of the Belle Meade Plantation.  If you're a fan of historical fiction, you won't want to miss this one!  Like a fine dessert, it's rich and decadent . . . a literary indulgence, indeed!

Music Monday: {Hello, My Name Is} by Matthew West

Hello friends, and Happy Monday to you!  It's officially Summer, and I hope that you're enjoying yours!  Things are well here, and Summer is in full swing with Bible study, swimming lessons, sleepovers, baseball games, reading, relaxing, and movie watching.  Oh, and I almost forget, I joined the gym two weeks ago!  I've been watching calories, eating healthier, and exercising more than I ever have.  It feels great to be making healthy choices!

Anyway, let's get back to Music Monday.  I don't know where you're at right now, but if you're like me, perhaps the enemy has been whispering (or shouting) lies into your ears.  As a matter of fact, just this morning I found myself actually believing those lies.  I was beginning to feel like my old self again, and I asked myself, "Who am I?"  Well, I'm certainly not the lies that I was listening to, and I wasn't about to listen to it for one more minute.  That's when I stopped dead in my tracks, and said out loud . . . NO, I'm not listening to this anymore!  I am a child of God!

The words of Matthew West's song popped into my head, and it felt amazing to get the devil off of my back!  He was weighing me down, and I have no time for that, because I am . . .

SAVED.  CHANGED.  SET FREE.  A CHILD OF THE ONE TRUE KING.  Can I get an amen?   No more living in defeat.  We have victory through His perfect sacrifice and His amazing grace.  Remember His word, and speak it out loud to the enemy.

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.  Hebrews 4:12 NKJV

I pray that this song would speak mightily into your heart if you're living in a place of defeat and believing the lies.  If you'd like a list of verses that tells each and every one of us who we are in Christ, I've found a great list on Joyce Meyer's website.  Be sure to click here for this fantastic resource. 

You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.  1 John 4:4 NKJV

Music Monday: {Hurricane} by Natalie Grant

Hello, and Happy Music Monday!  Today's selection is the brand-new single, Hurricane, by Natalie Grant.  If you like a fun, fresh, pop sound with a great message, then I think you'll really enjoy this song!  Natalie seems to be up to big things these days with her music ministry, and with this new single, I'm hoping that the complete album isn't too far off.  I pray you enjoy this song, and that you have a blessed week!