Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentine's Day, bookish friends! I hope you spend the day loving on people ... maybe buy someone a book. *winks*

Do you celebrate this day in some way? What are you doing today? I'm going to a Valentine's Day "party" with my mom and younger siblings. A good way to get some fellowship. ^_^

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Here are a few novels with a romance theme/sweet love story that I recommend! (In case you're a hopeless romantic, like me.)

Waking Rose {A Fairy Tale Retold #3} by Regina Doman

Edenbrooke {A Proper Romance} by Julianne Donaldson

The Lady and the Lionheart by Joanne Bischof

The Ryn {Eyes of E'veria #1} by Serena Chase

Entwined by Heather Dixon

To Win Her Heart by Karen Witemeyer

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Also, here are two non-fiction books that I think are absolutely great for Valentine's Day! *grins*

Savoring Single by Shelley Black

Real-Life Romance: Inspiring Stories to Help You Believe in True Love by Rhonda Stoppe

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Be sure to stop by Lady Grace: A Quiet & Gentle Spirit this Saturday! I'm going to have a post up having to do with thriving in the season of singleness, what I've been up to lately, and enjoying Valentine's Day as an unmarried, unattached woman.

May the Love, Joy, and Peace of God fill you today, dear readers! <3

Let me know what you're currently reading! I'm reading A Song Unheard {Shadows over England #2} by Roseanna M. White.

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Book Review: You're the Cream in My Coffee by Jennifer Lamont Leo

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Title: You're the Cream in My Coffee

Author: Jennifer Lamont Leo

Series: Roaring Twenties #1

Genre: Historical

Audience: Young Adult/Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

In 1928, Chicago rocks to the rhythm of the Jazz Age, and Prohibition is in full swing. Small-town girl Marjorie Corrigan, visiting the city for the first time, has sworn that coffee's the strongest drink that will pass her lips. But her quiet, orderly life turns topsy-turvy when she spots her high school sweetheart - presumed killed in the Great War - alive and well in a train station. Suddenly everything is up for grabs. 

Although the stranger insists he's not who she thinks he is, Marjorie becomes obsessed with finding out the truth. To the dismay of her fiancé and family, she moves to the city and takes a job at a department store so she can spy on him. Meanwhile, the glittering world of her roommate, Dot, begins to look awfully enticing - especially when the object of her obsession seems to be part of that world. Is it really so terrible to bob her hair and shorten her skirt? To visit a speakeasy? Just for a cup of coffee, of course. 

But what about her scruples? What about the successful young doctor to whom she's engaged, who keeps begging her to come back home where she belongs? And what, exactly, is going on at the store's loading dock so late at night? 

Amid a whirlwind of trials and temptations, Marjorie must make a choice. Will the mystery man prove to be the cream in her coffee - the missing ingredient to the life she yearns for? Or will he leave only bitterness in her heart?

~ MY REVIEW ~

**4.5 stars**

Ah, this was such a fun, thoughtful, and sweet read! You're the Cream in My Coffee by Jennifer Lamont Leo swept me right into the 1920s-30s era and kept me reading late into the night more than once. It had a little uniqueness from the average historical fiction, and a meaningful message and faith theme. And it was just completely adorable! *all the heart eyes* I loved Majorie and her journey. Dot, Charlie, Peter, Helen, Pop ... *hugs them all* I would love to read more. You're the Cream in My Coffee was exciting, authentic, wistful, and humorous, with a dash of mystery and suspense. It kept me guessing on certain things, and had me giggling here and there.

The stores, bobbed hair, dancing, and art classes - so delightful.

My only concern about this book is a couple of the characters engaging in romances without completely knowing where the other stood on faith issues. I think the Bible is pretty clear about not marrying unbelievers, so it makes me uncomfortable (even if said characters do end up becoming Christians in the end, or whatever.)

But other than that, You're the Cream in My Coffee was a real pleasure to read. Beyond just being fun and intriguing, I appreciated the lessons learned and impressed by the forgiveness, gentleness, and such shown by characters.

 
I love this era, and hope to read more by Jennifer Lamont Leo!

Book Review: Band of Sisters by Cathy Gohlke

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Title: Band of Sisters

Author: Cathy Gohlke

Series: Standalone

Genre: Historical

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Maureen O'Reilly and her younger sister flee Ireland in hope of claiming the life promised to their father over twenty years before. After surviving the rigors of Ellis Island, Maureen learns that their benefactor, Colonel Wakefield, has died. His family, refusing to own his Civil War debt, casts her out. Alone, impoverished, and in danger of deportation, Maureen connives to obtain employment in a prominent department store. But she soon discovers that the elegant facade hides a secret that threatens every vulnerable woman in the city.

Despite her family's disapproval, Olivia Wakefield determines to honor her father's debt but can't find Maureen. Unexpected help comes from a local businessman, whom Olivia begins to see as more than an ally, even as she fears the secrets he's hiding. As women begin disappearing from the store, Olivia rallies influential ladies in her circle to help Maureen take a stand against injustice and fight for the lives of their growing band of sisters. But can either woman open her heart to divine leading or the love it might bring?

~ MY REVIEW ~

**4 stars**

A thoroughly engrossing read. Band of Sisters by Cathy Gohlke is set in the early 1900s, following the lives of an Irish immigrant, Maureen, and well-off, socially-accepted Olivia, who longs to help those desperately in need. In a horrible tangle of secrets and terror, this story addresses human trafficking. Band of Sisters was well-written, real, raw, poignant, heart-wrenching ... both terrible and soul-stirring. The depth of the faith theme truly moved me. Maureen's journey to the Lord was something worth reading. The romances very tender. I feel like my heart has been torn out ... for the women whose lives were destroyed by evil people who would sell and use and abuse them - body and soul.

I really liked this book, though the end was a bit much for me to take in. My heart is broken. Band of Sisters is both a page-turner and a wake-up call to the reader about the horrors of sex trafficking and the cry for help.

Book Review: Perception by Emily Ann Benedict

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Title: Perception

Author: Emily Ann Benedict

Series: Vintage Jane Austen

Genre: Historical

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Upstate New York, 1930. Thirteen years ago, Abbey Evans was persuaded to break off her engagement to a penniless soldier headed to the front lines of the Great War. A daughter of one of America’s wealthiest families could never be allowed to marry so far beneath herself. But Black Tuesday changed everything. With her family's prominence now little more than a facade, Abbey faces the loss of her childhood home. As if that weren’t enough, the only man she ever loved has returned after making his fortune – and he wants nothing to do with the young woman he courted before the war. With the past forever out of reach, the time has come for Abbey decide her own fate, before it is too late…

~ MY REVIEW ~

**3 stars**

Perception by Emily Ann Benedict was an interesting read ... and enjoyable, overall. It was neat to pick out the similarities to Jane Austen's Persuasion, and it kept your attention.

There was a bit of a mystery going on, and some drama and incidents and trips to the seashore that kept the story lively. Quite a few characters were introduced over the course of the read, but it was done pretty smoothly, so I could mostly keep track. Speaking of characters - they were interesting. I think the author did quite a good job of making each unique and with their own personalities.
I enjoyed Sam's little side story. *smiles*

The romance was ultimately very sweet.

I didn't really like some of the character's actions/attitudes, personally, and maybe that's what kept me from enjoying this story more.

But all in all, it's a nice addition to the VINTAGE JANE AUSTEN series. Fans of Jane Austen's work and the 1930s era might enjoy!

I received a copy of Perception from the author in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: His Princess: Love Letters from Your King by Sheri Rose Shepherd

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Title: His Princess: Love Letters from Your King

Author: Sheri Rose Shepherd

Series: Standalone

Genre: Christian Living Devotional

Audience: Teen/Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

This beautiful four-color book opens the eyes of women to see themselves the way God sees them. Many don't even know that they are daughters of the King - chosen to be His Princess. Somewhere between childhood and adulthood, they trade in their fairy-tale dreams of being cherished for a tarnished identity fashioned by their own insecurities and the mixed-up messages of the media. Now, these tenderly adoring letters written from God's perspective demonstrate that every woman is beautiful just the way she is. Walking in confidence toward her God-given purpose, every woman can bless others - even future generations.

It's hard to look at our lives and think of ourselves as royalty. But the truth is, God is our King and wer are chosen by Him. As your soul soaks in these love letters from your King, be affirmed of who you are, why you are here, and how much you are loved.

For we are God's masterpiece. 

He has created us anew.

Ephesians 2:10, NLT

~ MY REVIEW ~

**5 stars**

His Princess: Love Letters from Your King by Sheri Rose Shepherd is an absolutely lovely devotional for women. Encouraging, tender, real, and gently challenging, it lets you know you're loved by your King! So many beautiful verses taken from Scripture, and words from Sheri Rose Shepherd to go along with each verse ... I found this little book a delight to read each day. Wonderful. I look forward to reading it again someday!

The Most Recent Posts from Lady Grace Blog

Just taking some time to share what I've been doing over on Lady Grace! I hope, if you read any of the posts there, you'll be encouraged and you'll comment with your thoughts! ^_^

Pages of My Journal: Psalm One Prayer

O Lord, help me to be the joyous woman who delights in Your instruction. I pray that You would teach me to mediate on it always! My good Father, make me like a tree planted beside streams of water. Have Your way in my life; work out Your beautiful plan for me, that as I abide in You, I bear fruit in whatever season of life You lead me to! Don’t let my soul and spirit wither, and my heart fail, but may I find Your strength even in my overwhelming weakness. ... Continue Reading

Life, Anxiety, & Reading 1 Corinthians

Hello, dear friends! Once again, I’m on a bad posting schedule. I am on vacation right now, so I suppose I have a right to take a break from blogging this time. Perhaps?

I’ve been having a lovely time, and thankful for the small but beautiful ways I’m seeing God’s hand in my life during this trip. Been praying a lot … and it’s been a comfort as I strive to just follow where God leads. Let go. Hold on. Push myself. Just be. Try to step into His plan for my day, and try to see blessing and opportunity where I might be tempted to see only trial and burden. ... Continue Reading

Practicing Purity & Pursuing Righteousness in Romantic Relationships

How does one pursue purity and righteousness in a relationship?

Even though if you read my relationship status it would say “single”, I’ve gleaned some insight and wisdom over the years on romance, dating, and marriage. By pursuing God and studying this particular topic through Christian Living books, sermons, and speakers—plus deep thought and discussion—I’ve perhaps gained some knowledge, and I want to share my ideas with you! I would love to converse with you in the comments below and hear your experiences and thoughts.

One thing I’ve learned: each relationship looks different! There are no perfect steps and cut-and-dry answers. ... Continue Reading

Do I Want to Know God?

Who is God?

Do you know Him? Or do you prefer not to know Him, so you don’t have to feel any discomfort over shocking Old Testament happenings and radical commands from the New Testament?

Is your god God? Or is he a benevolent, prayer-answering, rather un-god-like figure who fits quite neatly into your compartmentalized life in which your religion is but one, tidy, unrelated compartment?

The fact is, God is kind. And He does answer prayers. But He is also very much God. He created the universe and He created you, and He does not have to answer to you or do things as you dictate. ... Continue Reading

Oh, Joyous Christmas Day

Merry Christmas, dear people! Oh, how I pray that you are filled with God’s love, joy, and peace this day and always! This is a joyous celebration—a light has dawned on our darkness! ... Continue Reading

Some Novel Recommendations #1

Hello, readers! Today I have some book recommendations! Just a few novels set in Biblical times that I absolutely loved. These soul-stirring stories were engrossing and beautiful, and very much touched my heart. I hope you will give them a try! ...Continue Reading

Sanctification

It happened that I was reading some devotional/Christian living thing, and the thought struck me that I might not be “measuring up” in this certain area of my walk of faith. Immediately, my chest tightened. Anxiety entered my mind. Panic struck my heart.

This is bad. I’m failing. I’m not doing what I should. God is surely displeased with me. My brothers and sisters in Christ probably want nothing to do with me because I’m not as godly as them. Will I ever be good enough?

You know what the answer is? ... Continue Reading

Book Review: The Melody of the Soul by Liz Tolsma

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Title: The Melody of the Soul

Author: Liz Tolsma

Series: Music of Hope #1

Genre: Historical

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

By 1943, Anna Zadok, a Jewish Christian living in Prague, has lost everything, including her career as a concert violinist and almost her entire family. The only person she has left is her beloved grandmother, and she's determined to keep her safe. But protecting Grandmother won't be easy - not with a Nazi officer billeted below them.

Anna must keep a low profile. There's one thing she refuses to give up, though. Despite instruments being declared illegal, Anna defiantly continues to practice her violin. She has to believe that the war will end someday and her career will be waiting. Fortunately for Anna, the officer, Horst Engel, enjoys her soothing music. It distracts him from his dissatisfaction with Nazi ideology and reminds him that beauty still exists in an increasingly ugly world.

When his neighbors face deportation, Horst is moved to risk everything to hide them. Anna finds herself falling in love with the handsome officer and his brave heart. But what he reveals to her might break her trust and stop the music forever.

~ MY REVIEW ~

**3 stars**

The Melody of the Soul by Liz Tolsma is set during World War II and focuses on a young, Jewish woman living in Prague. It explores some of the horrific happenings during the Holocaust and weaves a story of Jews who hid, trying to escape the horrors being forced on them.

Book one in the MUSIC OF HOPE series, this novel is filled with drama, sorrow, action, and glimmers of hope.

So, though The Melody of the Soul did keep my attention and I felt like I learned some more about this particular war, the Holocaust, Jews, etc. - it wasn't my favorite read. Perhaps because the writing style was more narrative and I couldn't really feel the emotions of the characters. I didn't feel super invested in the character's lives, though I did very much hope for Anna, her grandmother, and the rest to survive!

There were some breathless moments, wondering if they were going to make it. Because of the theme and the time and setting, this book had a pretty heavy, dark air about it. But as I mentioned above, there was hope. A little bit of romance. And a lot of faith content. I appreciated the strong, unapologetic faith theme, even if the characters didn't quite feel real to me.

I rate The Melody of the Soul three stars because it did mostly keep me turning pages. The faith content was good, and the ending satisfying. If not for that, I may have rated it less, because of the things about the book (unrealistic characters or scenarios) that bothered me.

I received a copy of The Melody of the Soul from Litfuse Publicity Blogger Program in exchange for my honest review.

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Book Review: Close to You by Kara Isaac

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Title: Close to You

Author: Kara Isaac

Series: Standalone

Genre: Contemporary

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

A disgraced scholar running from her past and an entrepreneur chasing his future find themselves thrown together—and fall in love—on a Tolkien tour of New Zealand.

Allison Shire (yes, like where the Hobbits live) is a disgraced academic who is done with love. Her belief in “happily ever after” ended the day she discovered her husband was still married to a wife she knew nothing about. She finally finds a use for her English degree by guiding tours through the famous sites featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies. By living life on the road and traveling New Zealand as a luxury tour guide, Allison manages to outrun the pain of her past she can’t face.

Jackson Gregory was on the cusp of making it big. Then suddenly his girlfriend left him—for his biggest business competitor—and took his most guarded commercial secrets with her. To make matters worse, the Iowa farm that has been in his family for generations is facing foreclosure. Determined to save his parents from financial ruin, he’ll do whatever it takes to convince his wealthy great-uncle to invest in his next scheme, which means accompanying him to the bottom of the world to spend three weeks pretending to be a die-hard Lord of the Rings fan, even though he knows nothing about the stories. The one thing that stands between him and his goal is a know-it-all tour guide who can’t stand him and pegged him as a fake the moment he walked off the plane.

When Allison leads the group through the famous sites of the Tolkien movies, she and Jackson start to see each other differently, and as they keep getting thrown together on the tour, they find themselves drawn to each other. Neither expected to fall in love again, but can they find a way beyond their regrets to take a chance on the one thing they’re not looking for?

~ MY REVIEW ~

**3.5 stars**

Close to You by Kara Isaac wasn't exactly what I expected. (I was thinking it was YA, when it is, in fact, about two adults.) But I still enjoyed! It was fun, quirky, and filled with details about J.R.R. Tolkien and Middle-Earth. Also included, were faith matters and some deep struggles.

A novel about a used-to-be Tolkien fan who's now a guide in a Tolkien tour, with a client who doesn't know the least bit about this author and his famous fantasy books, is a novel that cries out for me to open it! Allison Shire and Jackson Gregory don't have much in common, unless you count their betrayed hearts and shattered futures. When they are thrown together in a Tolkien-esque part of New Zealand for a few weeks, things are about to get exciting ... and complicated.

It was an interesting and fun journey. From the first page, you're pulled into this contemporary, yet intriguing, setting. And there's plenty of action and humorous moments.
I did have a couple complaints. One, I would liked to have seen Allie's faith grow more. Two, there were a couple incidents that bordered on inappropriate. Nothing obscene, but I just felt some characters weren't exactly living out their Christian walk with all purity.

But, overall, it was quite real. There was character growth. Things developed slowly. Even the romance, (though when you count the actual days they were together was rather fast,) felt like it took time to happen. There was no immediate kissing and declarations of love. The characters held themselves back from certain actions - knowing deep down the time wasn't right. I really appreciated that. Past immorality was confronted. Wrong choices weren't excused. So even though some of the themes felt a little edgy compared to what I usually read, everything was dealt with. Right choices were made. Characters decided to wait on God. There was a lovely bit of faith that echoed through Close to You.

One of my favorite aspects of Close to You was the Tolkien theme. Hobbits, elves, dwarves, and orcs! I learned new tidbits about J.R.R. Tolkien and The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings books/movies. And even The Silmarillion! It was all so fun and delightful and interesting. I felt like watching all the movies over while reading this book! And though old books intimidate me, I think I must give at least The Hobbit a try. So that was really cool. Great job, Kara Isaac!

Now I'm so excited about picking up a copy of Can't Help Falling! I'm ready for a Chronicles of Narnia-esque contemporary novel from Kara Isaac! *grins*

Book Review: A Love So True by Melissa Jagears

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Title: A Love So True

Author: Melissa Jagears

Series: Teaville Moral Society #2

Genre: Historical

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Jagears Delivers a Wonderfully Romantic Read with a Hero and Heroine to Cheer For
Evelyn Wisely has a heart for the orphans of Teaville and works at a local mansion that rescues children out of the town's red-light district and gives them a place to live. But her desire to help isn't limited to orphans. The owner of the mansion, Nicholas Lowe, is willing to help her try to get the women working in prostitution out of the district as well - if she can gain the cooperation and support of local businessmen to go against the rest of the community.

David Kingsman has recently arrived in Teaville from Kansas City to help with one of his father's companies in town. While he plans on staying only long enough to prove his business merit to his father, he's shown interest in Evelyn's work and is intrigued enough by her to lend his support to her cause.

They begin with the best of intentions, but soon the complications pile up and Evelyn and David's dreams look more unattainable every day. When the revelation of a long-held secret creates a seemingly insurmountable rift between them, can they trust God still has a good plan for them despite all that is stacked against them?

~ MY REVIEW ~

**5 stars**

Beautiful, delightful, tender, and sweet, I loved it! There was something real and heart-touching about A Love So True by Melissa Jagears, second book in the TEAVILLE MORAL SOCIETY series. I adored it even more than Book One, and can hardly wait to continue to read about the people of Teaville!

Orphans. Secrets. Prostitutes. Safe homes. Regretful pasts. Charming newcomer. ... And a whole new chapter waiting to be opened up to Evelyn Wisely.

Oh, David. He is a charmer, yes, but beyond that is his compassionate nature and truly loyal and steadfast heart. I felt he was a such a unique and wonderful character, who persistently and sweetly pursued Evelyn despite the cool front she put on.
Evelyn was a dear. Her tireless work and real compassion for the needy and hurting of her community was admirable and humbling. As well as her faithful heart. She's tall, sturdy, and determined, but a sweet soul underneath it all. I loved going on this poignant and so very beautiful journey with her!

I was so happy to see characters from A Heart Most Certain! What fun! They are doing well and ever their lovely selves! ^_^ Meeting new people, and learning still more about this town of Teaville was a delight. Yes, their are some harsh realities and sober things mentioned/shown ... but I can't help but fall in love with the brave and gentle heroes and heroines of Teaville.

Read this book in one day, my friends, it was that good! Perhaps different from the average Christian historical romance, perhaps not. But A Love So True had little things about it that just made it a gem to me. The faith theme was so beautiful, for one! These characters were real in their relationships with God.

I simply can't wait to read book three, A Chance at Forever! Melissa Jagears is an author I will continually look out for for new books!