Friday Memes 1/30

Hosted by: Ramblings of a Coffee Addicted Writer

The Question:

Do you ever get comments from authors when you have posted or tweeted your review?

My Answer:

Yes I've gotten a lot of author comments on my reviews and it never fails to make my day!

Hosted by: Rose City Reader

"Please join me every Friday to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you are reading, along with your initial thoughts about the sentence, impressions of the book, or anything else the opener inspires. Please remember to include the title of the book and the author's name."

Lindsey floated up to her dorm room at Delton School for Girls. Racing to her window, she watched Tristan walk of campus, his gait confident as he held his cellphone up to his ear. She rummaged through her purse for her phone. Was he already calling her to tell her what a great time he'd had?
Worth the Time by Laura Jackson

My Thoughts
Cute beginning!

A Brush With Love by Rachel Hauck

About the Book
Ginger Winters is a gifted hairstylist with scars no one can see. The last thing she expects from the New Year is a new chance at love.
Overcoming a childhood tragedy, Ginger emerges from the pain and trauma with a gift for bringing out the beauty in others. From the top big city salons to traveling the world as personal stylist to a country music sensation, success was almost enough to make Ginger forget she would never be one of the beautiful people.
She's that girl, forever on the outside looking in. But she needs her confidence this weekend. She’s the acclaimed “beauty-maker” for the Alabama society wedding of the decade.
When high-school crush Tom Wells Jr. also returns to town and shows up at her shop looking for a haircut, Ginger’s thinly veiled insecurities threaten to keep her locked away from love, Despite Tom’s best efforts, Ginger can’t forget how he disappeared on her twelve years ago and broke her heart. Can she ever trust him again?
When Tom challenges her to see her own beauty, Ginger must decide if she will remained chained to the past or move freely into a new, exciting future.

My Thoughts

This was a cute, short read! Ginger and Tom were both great characters and I really enjoyed watching their story play out. It was cute how they had liked each other when they were younger and were able to reconnect as adults. I loved how Tom helped Ginger see that her scars didn't define her and that not only was she beautiful in God's eyes but his, and everyone else who loved her. It was beautiful to watch as she turned her back on the lies she'd believed all her life and accept the love of God and Tom! It was such a fun novella and I definitely recommend it!

Meet the Author

RITA Finalist and Carol Award winner Rachel Hauck was recently chosen by Family Fiction readers as one of the top five romance authors in CBA. She has written more than fifteen novels, including the acclaimed Songbird novels with multi-platinum country singer Sara Evans. Rachel lives in central Florida with her husband, and writes from her ivory tower (her office really is in a tower—and it’s painted ivory!).

I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Beyond All Dreams by Elizabeth Camden

About the Book
Anna O'Brien leads a predictable and quiet life as a map librarian at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across the baffling mystery of a ship disappeared at sea. Thwarted in her attempts to uncover information, her determination outweighs her shyness and she turns to a dashing congressman for help.
Luke Callahan was one of the nation's most powerful congressmen before his promising career was shadowed in scandal. Eager to share in a new cause and intrigued by the winsome librarian, he joins forces with Anna to solve the mystery of the lost ship. Opposites in every way, Anna and Luke are unexpectedly drawn to each other despite the strict rules forbidding Anna from any romantic entanglements with members of Congress.
From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for their futures?

My Thoughts 
I have had different opinions about each of this author's books so I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this one. Thankfully I loved it! From the very beginning I was sucked into the mystery of the Culpepper and couldn't wait to find out what really had happened.
Luke and Anna were both fantastic characters and I really loved them! I loved how Luke was so passionate about peace, and how much he cared about those close to him. Then there was Anna with her quiet strength, tenacity, and good heart. They were so perfectly matched and it was beautiful how perfectly they balanced each other out.
I loved how unique both of their jobs were I don't think I've read a book with a map librarian or a congressman as the main characters and it was cool to get a look into that world. I am usually bored by politics but the author did a great job of making it realistic yet not dry and monotonous. Also I'd never really read much about the Spanish-American War so it was really cool to see a bit of the events that led up to it.
Overall this was a fantastic novel full of rich historical detail and a rather sweet love story that I completely enjoyed!

Meet the Author
Elizabeth Camden is the author of six books and a RITA and Christy Award winner. With a master's in history and a master's in library science, she is a research librarian by day and scribbles away on her next novel by night. Elizabeth lives with her husband in Florida. Visit her website at www.elizabethcamden.com.

I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.


Travel back in time to the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress in Elizabeth Camden's newest release, Beyond All Dreams. From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for their futures?

Elizabeth is celebrating the release of Beyond All Dreams with a Kindle giveaway and Facebook party on February 17.

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• One copy of Beyond All Dreams

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 2/17. Winner will be announced at Elizabeth's 2/17 Beyond All Dreams Facebook author chat party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Elizabeth and historical fiction fans, as well as for the opportunity to win some great prizes!
{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, or PINTEREST and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 17th!

Waiting on Wednesday #146: Spy of Richmond

Hosted by Breaking the Spine.

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event that spotlights upcoming releases that we're
eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Spy of Richmond by Jocelyn Green
River North-March 1, 2015

About the Book

Trust none. Risk all.

Richmond, Virginia, 1863. Compelled to atone for the sins of her slaveholding father, Union loyalist Sophie Kent risks everything to help end the war from within the Confederate capital and abolish slavery forever. But she can't do it alone.

Former slave Bella Jamison sacrifices her freedom to come to Richmond, where her Union soldier husband is imprisoned, and her twin sister still lives in bondage in Sophie's home. Though it may cost them their lives, they work with Sophie to betray Rebel authorities. Harrison Caldwell, a Northern freelance journalist who escorts Bella to Richmond, infiltrates the War Department as a clerk-but is conscripted to defend the city's fortifications.

As Sophie's spy network grows, she walks a tightrope of deception, using her father's position as newspaper editor and a suitor's position in the ordnance bureau for the advantage of the Union. One misstep could land her in prison, or worse. Suspicion hounds her until she barely even trusts herself. When her espionage endangers the people she loves, she makes a life-and-death gamble.

Will she follow her convictions even though it costs her everything-and everyone-she holds dear?

Why I Want It

Jocelyn's books are always full of rich historical detail and are beautifully written!

Top Ten Book to Movie Adaptations I Still Need to Read and/or Watch

Top Ten Tuesday is a meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish

This week's actual topic is Ten Books I'd Love to Read With My Book Club/If I Had A Book Club but since I really don't like the idea of being in a book club I decided to pick my own topic. There are several books that have been made in to movies lately and there are many that I either have read and need to see or haven't read or seen!

#1. The Maze Runner by James Dashner
I really enjoyed this series and I'm excited to see the movie but I am waiting to watch it with my friend!

#2. If I Stay by Gayle Forman
Wasn't the hugest fan of this book but I do still want to see the movie!

#3. The Giver by Lois Lowry
Really didn't enjoy this book but I'm still willing to give the movie a chance.

#4. Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
Really want to read this book and then see the movie!

#5. Harry Potter Books by J.K. Rowling
Currently working through the books then I'll watch the movies!

#6. The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak
I'm quite interested in this book and it's movie adaptation

#7. Warm Bodies by Issac Marion
Didn't realize this was a book till I went to make this list but I really want to see the movie

#8. Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
I saw the movie last year and I'm hoping to read the book sometime soon!

#9. Les Miserables by Victor Hugo
I am partway through the book and when I get around to finishing it I'll watch the musical!

#10. Insurgent by Veronica Roth & Mockingjay (Part 2) by Suzanne Collins
These aren't out yet but I couldn't come up with a tenth and I will definitely be watching these in the theater when they release!

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? #158

 Hosted By: Book Journey

Here is what I finished last week:

This was really good even if it was the only one I managed to finish this week!

What I am currently reading:

So far so good on both of these!

What I hope to read this week:

I really need to stop getting distracted by TV and get this series finished!

Blog Posts
It's Monday! What Are You Reading? #157
Top Ten Fictional Families
Waiting on Wednesday #145: The Trouble With Patience

Friday Memes 1/23

Hidden Agenda by Lisa Harris

Hope you have a great reading week, thanks for taking the time to check out mine!

Leave your link below and I'll be sure to stop by!

Hidden Agenda by Lisa Harris

About the Book
Michael Hunt is alive--and on the run. Presumed dead by friends and family, the undercover assignment he's been working for the past eight months has just been blown. With a hit out on his life and corruption inside the Atlanta police department, Michael finds himself hunted by both the cartel and the law. His only hope is the daughter of the man who wants him dead.
This nonstop chase from taut suspense writer Lisa Harris will leave readers breathless as they race to connect the dots before it's too late.

My Thoughts
After how the previous book ended with the big surprise, I couldn't wait to read this book! Thankfully it lived up to my expectations!
Michael was a fantastic hero! I loved how he held true to his faith even after being undercover in a criminal organization for several months, and how he didn't let it change who he was at his core.
Olivia was great too! It was great to see how she took care of her brother and how she was willing to risk her life to the right thing.
The action in this story definitely kept me hooked, it was impossible to know who to trust and who was was working for who! There were several things that I didn't see coming at all and I was impressed by how the author worked everything out!
It was such fun to see the Hunt family back together and to watch them all do what needed to be done to clear Michael’s name. It was also amusing to see Michael's reaction to the fact that his best friend was now dating his little sister!
There were a couple instances of redundancy but it wasn't enough to keep me from enjoying this fantastic and satisfying conclusion to a great series!

Meet the Author
Lisa Harris is a Christy Award winner and the winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense Novel for 2011 from Romantic Times. The author of more than twenty books, including Dangerous Passage and Fatal Exchange, Harris and her family have spent over ten years living as missionaries in Mozambique, where she leads a women's group and runs a nonprofit organization that works alongside their church-planting ministry. Visit www.lisaharriswrites.com for more.

I received this book free in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Friday Memes 1/23

Hosted by: Ramblings of a Coffee Addicted Writer

The Question:

How do you feel when someone continues to put the EXACT same comment on your blog each week?

My Answer:

Honestly it's rather annoying, especially since I try to reply to all the comments on my blog!

Hosted by: Rose City Reader

"Please join me every Friday to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you are reading, along with your initial thoughts about the sentence, impressions of the book, or anything else the opener inspires. Please remember to include the title of the book and the author's name."

"I'm begging you, please stop looking at naughty pictures in the library." It was a sentence Anna never thought she would utter, and with a straight face no less. But these boys were on the verge of getting kicked out of the Library of Congress unless she intervened for them. 
Beyond All Dreams by Elizabeth Camden

My Thoughts
That first sentence isn't what you expect from a Christian novel but it makes sense when you read the rest! I love that it gives you a good look at what kind of character Anna is!

Waiting on Wednesday #145: The Trouble With Patience

Hosted by Breaking the Spine.

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event that spotlights upcoming releases that we're
eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

The Trouble With Patience by Maggie Brendan
Revell-February 17, 2015

About the Book

Patience Cavanaugh has lost hope in romance. The man she yearned to marry is dead and her dreams are gone with him. Now she is consumed with the restoration of a dilapidated boarding house in order to support herself. Despite her desire for solitude, Jedediah Jones, the local sheriff with a reputation for hanging criminals, becomes an ever-looming part of her life. It seems like such a simple arrangement: Patience needs someone with a strong back to help her fix up the boardinghouse, and Jedediah needs a dependable source of food for himself and his prisoners. But Patience gets more than she bargained for as she explores the depths of the "hanging lawman"--and finds both betrayal and love.

With a keen eye to historical detail and a deft hand at romantic tension, Maggie Brendan invites readers to a Montana gold rush boomtown, where vices and virtues are on full display and love is lying in wait.

Why I Want It

This author's books are hit or miss for me and this one sounds like it could be a hit!

Top Ten Fictional Families

Top Ten Tuesday is a meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish

One of my favorite types of series to read are ones that involve families. There's just something about them that makes you connect much more than other types of series, so for this freebie week I decided to highlight some of my favorite fictional families!

#1. The O'Conners from Julie Lessman's O'Conner Family Saga

#2. The Christiansens from Susan May Warren's The Christiansen Family

#3. The O'Malleys from Dee Henderson's O'Malley Series

#4. The McClares from Julie Lessman's The Heart of San Francisco Series

#5. The McKennas from Dani Pettrey's Alaskan Courage Series

#6. The Novaks from Sarah Sundin's Wings of Glory Series

#7. The Bentarrinis from Lisa T. Bergren's River of Time Series

#8. The McKinnleys from Denise Hunter's Chapel Springs Series

#9. The Davis' family from Janette Oke's Love Comes Softly Series

#10. The Donovans from Lori Wick's The Californians Series

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? #157

 Hosted By: Book Journey

Here is what I finished last week:

I got a bit distracted by TV shows and this is all I managed to finish this week!

What I am currently reading:

I'm really enjoying Hidden Agenda and while I am still liking this HP book Harry is getting on my nerves a bit.

What I hope to read this week:

Trying to get some of my review books done while still getting some Harry Potter in!

Blog Posts
Bout of Books 12: Wrap Up & It's Monday! What Are You Reading? #156
Top Ten 2014 Releases I Meant to Read But Didn't Get To
Waiting on Wednesday #144: Sabotaged

Friday Memes 1/16

Hope you have a great reading week, thanks for taking the time to check out mine!

Leave your link below and I'll be sure to stop by!

Friday Memes 1/16

Hosted by: Ramblings of a Coffee Addicted Writer

The Question:

Do you feel comfortable enough approaching a stranger when you see he/she is reading a book to ask what they are reading?

My Answer:

Nope. I am a very shy person and feel extremely awkward in situations like that! I would totally do it if I was at least acquainted with the person but never a stranger!

Hosted by: Rose City Reader

"Please join me every Friday to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you are reading, along with your initial thoughts about the sentence, impressions of the book, or anything else the opener inspires. Please remember to include the title of the book and the author's name."

Michael Hunt staggered from the impact of the blow. His hand reached instinctively for his bruised rib cage.
Hidden Agenda by Lisa Harris

My Thoughts
Wow this beginning definitely sucks you right in! I watch a lot of cop shows so I could vividly see this scene playing out!

Waiting on Wednesday #144: Sabotaged

Hosted by Breaking the Spine.

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event that spotlights upcoming releases that we're
eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Sabotaged by Dani Pettrey
Bethany House-February 3, 2015

About the Book

Finally Returned Home, Reef McKeena

Finds His Beloved Alaska Facing Its Greatest Threat

Growing up, goody-two-shoes Kirra Jacobs and troublemaker Reef McKenna were always at odds. Now, working together as search-and-rescue for Alaska's arduous Iditarod race, a growing attraction seems to be forcing aside old arguments. Then Reef catches Kirra sneaking from camp in the middle of the night. 

Kirra's uncle, a musher in the race, has disappeared. Kirra and Reef quickly track the man, but what they discover is harrowing: Frank's daughter has been kidnapped. Kirra and Reef, along with the entire McKenna family, are thrown into a race to stop a shadowy villain who is not only threatening a girl's life--but appears willing to unleash one of the largest disasters Alaska has ever seen. 

Why I Want It

I have absolutely loved every book in this series and I cannot wait for Reef's story!

Top Ten 2014 Releases I Meant To Read But Didn't Get To

Top Ten Tuesday is a meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish


#1. Hawk by Ronie Kendig
#2. A Bride in Store by Melissa Jagears
#3. Rebels by Jill Williamson
#4. Can't Let You Go by Jenny B. Jones
#5. Stuck Together by Mary Connealy
#6. A Table by the Window by Hilary Manton Lodge
#7. A Most Inconvenient Marriage by Regina Jennings
#8. The Secret of Pembrooke Park by Julie Klassen
#9. A Beauty So Rare by Tamera Alexander
#10. Prelude for a Lord by Camille Elliot

Bout of Books 12: Wrap-Up & It's Monday! What Are You Reading? #156

Day Seven Update

Books I Read Today:
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling (150 pgs)

Books I Finished Today:
None

Pages Read Today: 150

Wrap-Up

Total Books Finished: 7

Total Pages Read: 1,964

 Hosted By: Book Journey

Here is what I finished last week:

I had an enjoyable week of reading but Hope Rising and A Sugar Creek Christmas were my favorites!

What I am currently reading:

I'm about 500 pages through this one and I am enjoying it!

What I hope to read this week:

My next 3 review books! Hoping to get to at least a couple of them this week!

Blog Posts
It's Monday! What Are You Reading? #155
Rachel Hauck Fires Up the Romance with "A Brush with Love" Kindle Giveaway
Top Ten Most Anticipated Debuts of 2015
Waiting on Wednesday #143: Remember the Lilies
2014 End of Year Book Survey

Friday Memes 1/9

Hope you have a great reading week, thanks for taking the time to check out mine!

Leave your link below and I'll be sure to stop by!

Bout of Books 12: Day 6 Update & Day 7 Challenge

Day Six Update

Books I Read Today:
None

Books I Finished Today:
None

Pages Read Today: 0

Total Books Finished: 7

Total Pages Read: 1,814

My Thoughts On Today
Well I was hoping to get a little reading in but I'm not too surprised that I didn't! I worked at my part-time bakery job from 7-2, cleaned my apartment, then had a sleepover with my sisters and my best friend! So even though I didn't read it was still a fantastic day!

In Six Words Challenge
Hosted by: Falling Down the Book Hole

This challenge is called #insixwords ! The point of this challenge is to choose 2-3 books whether you read them this week, they are a few of your favorites or they were just the easiest ones to come up with something for. For these books you choose to use for this challenge, you must summarize/share your thoughts or feelings about the book in just six words! They can be funny or serious, positive or negative, it is all up to you!

Hope Rising by Stacy Henrie-Unexpected love during war and heartbreak

A Brush with Love by Rachel Hauck-Emma rediscovers love and Christmas joy.

Dysfunctional Book Family Challenge
Hosted by: Auggie Talk

Select your characters and give each of them a title (mom, dad, sister, uncle, cousin). Get goofy or be super serious. Up to you! 
Tell me a little bit about WHY you'd choose these characters for their spot in your fam! 
Now have a bit of fun and tell me (in a short sentence or a long paragraph) HOW is your family dysfunctional. ;)

(Note: This list would have been a bit different but then I decided only one character per author!)

Dad: Silas Ballantyne from The Ballantyne Legacy by Laura Frantz-I love Silas's character and he makes a great father and family leader
Mom: Ingrid Christiansen from The Christiansen Family by Susan May Warren-Ingrid is one of those people who is just born to be a mother and she does it fantastically!
Brother: Sean O'Conner from The O'Conner Family Saga by Julie Lessman-Sean is just such an amazing character and he does such a good job as an older brother! That great mix of protective, stern, supportive, and loving!
Sister: Autumn Kingsley from Here to Stay by Melissa Tagg-I feel like Autumn and I would get along so well which would make us great sisters!
Grandmother: Mad Maxine from A Katie Parker Production by Jenny B. Jones-She's entirely crazy but she'd make sure our life was never dull!
Grandfather: Lance Burnett from A Breed Apart by Ronie Kendig-He is the complete opposite of Maxine and I feel like while he is a stern general he'd also be a great grandfather!
Aunt: Agatha Watson from A Match of Wits by Jen Turano-Agatha is such a blast and would make the perfect aunt that lets you do all the stuff your parents won't!
Uncle: Jack O'Malley from The O'Malley Series by Dee Henderson-Jack is a practical joker but he's also the guy that will be there for you when you need him!

Haha where to start with the dysfunction! You have a stubborn Scottish father and an occasionally hot-headed Irish brother, and a mother who wants life peaceful and perfect. Through in a crazy grandma, stern grandfather, wild aunt, and a jokester uncle and you really do have a recipe for disaster!

Bout of Books 12: Day 5 Update & Day 6 Challenge

Day Five Update

Books I Read Today:
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling (336 pgs)
Dashing Through the Snow by Paige Rion (67 pgs)

Books I Finished Today:
Dashing Through the Snow by Paige Rion

Pages Read Today: 403

Total Books Finished: 7

Total Pages Read: 1,814

Literary Quote Challenge
Hosted by: Gone With the Words
Share an image of a quote in your current Bout of Books read wherever you’re updating your Bout of Books status/updates, or on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook (so long as your account isn’t private and we can all view it). And be sure to use the #boutofbooks hashtag so we can all check out your creations!

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling

Bout of Books 12: Day 4 Update & Day 5 Challenge

Day Four Update

Books I Read Today: 
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling (167 pgs)
Love at Mistletoe Inn by Cindy Kirk (126 pgs)

Books I Finished Today:
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling
Love at Mistletoe Inn by Cindy Kirk

Pages Read Today: 293

Total Books Finished: 6

Total Pages Read: 1,411

My Thoughts on Today
Well today was my lowest page count yet, which doesn't surprise me since I got distracted by writing a blog post and the baby I nanny didn't sleep as much as she typically does. Hoping to get a chunk done on Day 5 since I'm not got to have much reading time Day 6!

Describe Your Book in Pictures Challenge
Think about a book you finished or are currently reading.
Create a series of images that describe what is going on in the book and post them somewhere, tumblr, your blog, twitter, instagram, etc. Use #boutofbooks so everyone can see!

I chose A Sugar Creek Christmas by Jenny B. Jones! The hero is acting mayor, hence the suit, and news desk is for the heroine who is trying to get her job on tv back. The decorated house and tree are related to scenes in the book and the fact that they are working to get the town ready for Christmas. And lastly the nativity plays a big role in the story! 

Friday Memes 1/9

Hosted by: Ramblings of a Coffee Addicted Writer

The Question:

If you could have dinner with your favorite character, who would it be?

My Answer:

I would have dinner with the O'Conner family from Julie Lessman's books! I'd join them for one of their big family gatherings and get to hang out with everyone!

Hosted by: Rose City Reader

"Please join me every Friday to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you are reading, along with your initial thoughts about the sentence, impressions of the book, or anything else the opener inspires. Please remember to include the title of the book and the author's name."

"Here you go, Mrs. Petrie. I double-taped the box as you like, so it stays nice and fresh." Wynn blew a wisp of brown hair out of her face. 
The flabby skin of Mrs. Petrie's jowls pulled inward as she pursed her lips. "Did you dust it with extra coconut on top like I requested?" Her indignant tone resonated in the tiny shop.
Dashing Through the Snow by Paige Rion

My Thoughts
This immediately made me feel like I was at my part-time job at our local bakery! 

2014 End of Year Book Survey

Hosted by: The Perpetual Page Turner

2014 Reading Stats

Number Of Books You Read: 169
Number of Re-Reads: 19
Genre You Read The Most From: Historical Fiction

Best in Books 

1. Best Book You Read In 2014?
This was super difficult since I read so many amazing books but I am going to go with Surprised by Love by Julie Lessman. Not only was it AMAZING but I also had a character named after me in it!

2. Book You Were Excited About & Thought You Were Going To Love More But Didn’t?
If I Stay by Gayle Forman

 3. Most surprising (in a good way or bad way) book you read in 2014? 
Worth the Wait by Laura Jackson and Happy to Be Alive, Because... by Chelsea Jacobs both were debut releases and they sounded good but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved them!

 4. Book You “Pushed” The Most People To Read (And They Did) In 2014?
I didn't do too much book pushing this year but I did get my sister to finally read the Wings of Glory Series by Sarah Sundin and she loved it!

 5. Best series you started in 2014? The Heart of San Francisco by Julie Lessman
     Best Sequel of 2014? Here to Stay by Melissa Tagg
     Best Series Ender of 2014? Deluge by Lisa T. Bergren

 6. Favorite new author you discovered in 2014?
Kate Breslin

7. Best book from a genre you don’t typically read/was out of your comfort zone?
I have a pretty broad comfort zone but Lena Goldfinch's books aren't my typical type of book but I did enjoy them!

 8. Most action-packed/thrilling/unputdownable book of the year?
I had a lot of books I didn't want to put down this year but the one that fits all three of these would be Raptor 6 by Ronie Kendig

 9. Book You Read In 2014 That You Are Most Likely To Re-Read Next Year?
Any of Julie Lessman's books and Here to Stay by Melissa Tagg

10. Favorite cover of a book you read in 2014?

11. Most memorable character of 2014?
 I had tons of favorite characters but one that sticks in my mind a lot is Josh Martin from Worth the Wait by Laura Jackson. He was an amazing guy and so mature for a high-schooler!

12. Most beautifully written book read in 2014?
 For Such a Time by Kate Breslin

13. Most Thought-Provoking/ Life-Changing Book of 2014?
Happy to Be Alive, Because... by Chelsea Jacobs

14. Book you can’t believe you waited UNTIL 2014 to finally read? 
Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers

15. Favorite Passage/Quote From A Book You Read In 2014?
Didn't keep track of any!

16.Shortest & Longest Book You Read In 2013?
Longest: Allegiant by Veronica Roth (526 pgs)
Shortest: A Hero's Promise by Roseanna M. White (35 pgs)

 17. Book That Shocked You The Most
(Because of a plot twist, character death, left you hanging with your mouth wide open, etc.)
Hmm not too sure about this one, maybe Allegiant by Veronica Roth or Deluge by Lisa T. Bergren though in both cases I had an inkling of what was going to happen.

18. OTP OF THE YEAR (you will go down with this ship!)
Luca and Lia from The River of Time Series by Lisa T. Bergren, 

19. Favorite Non-Romantic Relationship Of The Year
The O'Conner family from Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change series by Julie Lessman

20. Favorite Book You Read in 2014 From An Author You've Read Previously
Almost every one of my favorite authors released a new book this year so this was a bit long of a list, I ended up shortening it to the books that I read that became my favorite of that author's!
Here to Stay by Melissa Tagg
Dancing With Fireflies by Denise Hunter
Meant to Be Mine by Becky Wade
A Match of Wits by Jen Turano
Love's Awakening by Laura Frantz 
Caught in the Middle by Regina Jennings

21. Best Book You Read In 2014 That You Read Based SOLELY On A Recommendation From Somebody Else/Peer Pressure:
Jupiter Winds by C.J. Darlington

22. Newest fictional crush from a book you read in 2014?
Blake Hunziker from Here to Stay by Melissa Tagg

23. Best 2014 debut you read?
For Such a Time by Kate Breslin

24. Best Worldbuilding/Most Vivid Setting You Read This Year?
Destined for Doon by Carey Corp & Lorie Langdon

25. Book That Put A Smile On Your Face/Was The Most FUN To Read?
I grin like a dope through all of Julie Lessman's books (except when she's making me cry)

26. Book That Made You Cry Or Nearly Cry in 2014?
There were several but the most notable would be Deluge by Lisa T. Bergren

27. Hidden Gem Of The Year?
Worth the Wait by Laura Jackson

28. Book That Crushed Your Soul?
My soul is still intact-I can't really think of one that "crushed" it

29. Most Unique Book You Read In 2014?
Lena Goldfinch's

30. Book That Made You The Most Mad (doesn't necessarily mean you didn’t like it)?
Vow Unbroken by Carol McAdoo-REALLY didn't like this one!

Your Blogging/Bookish Life

1. New favorite book blog you discovered in 2014? 
Rissi's blog Dreaming Under the Same Moon! I had seen her name pop up a few times on blogs but I didn't start following till this year. Both the blog and it's author are amazing and I love reading and commenting on her posts!

2. Favorite review that you wrote in 2014? 
I had a blast writing reviews for all of Julie Lessman's books and having a week and a half where I posted one each day!

3. Best discussion/non-review post you had on your blog?
Didn't really have any discussion posts!

4. Best event that you participated in (author signings, festivals, virtual events, memes, etc.)?
My favorite meme to participate in is Top Ten Tuesday!

5. Best moment of bookish/blogging life in 2014?
Getting to have a character named after me in my favorite author, Julie Lessman's, newest book!

7. Most Popular Post This Year On Your Blog (whether it be by comments or views)?
Social Media (aka Where to Find Me Online)

8. Post You Wished Got A Little More Love?
I'm pretty happy with the amount of love my posts got!

9. Best bookish discovery (book related sites, book stores, etc.)?
Really didn't discover anything new!

10.  Did you complete any reading challenges or goals that you had set for yourself at the beginning of this year?
 I didn't reach my original goal of 215 books because I hadn't foreseen getting a part time job for most of the summer then moving out and getting a job in the fall! I did complete most of my other challenges with a few exceptions!

Looking Ahead

1. One Book You Didn’t Get To In 2014 But Will Be Your Number 1 Priority in 2015?
 Lots! Top of the list: Hawk by Ronie Kendig, Rebels by Jill Williamson, and A Bride in Store by Melissa Jagears.

2. Book You Are Most Anticipating For 2015 (non-debut)?
Sabotaged by Dani Pettrey, Always on My Mind & The Wonder of You by Susan May Warren, From the Start by Melissa Tagg, Through Waters Deep by Sarah Sundin, and A Love Like Ours by Becky Wade

3. 2015 Debut You Are Most Anticipating?
The Choosing by Rachelle Dekker

 4. Series Ending/A Sequel You Are Most Anticipating in 2015?
The Wonder of You by Susan May Warren (end of The Christiansen series)

5. One Thing You Hope To Accomplish Or Do In Your Reading/Blogging Life In 2015?
I would love to be able to review every book I read!

6. A 2015 Release You’ve Already Read & Recommend To Everyone:
 I haven't read a 2015 release yet!

Bout of Books 12: Day 3 Update & Day 4 Challenge

Day Three Update

Books I Read Today: 
A Brush With Love by Rachel Hauck (30 pgs)
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling (268 pgs)

Books I Finished Today:
A Brush With Love by Rachel Hauck

Pages Read Today: 298

Total Books Finished: 4

Total Pages Read: 1,118

My Thoughts on Today
Well it was my lowest page count day so far but it was still a pretty good day of reading! Hoping day four goes a little better!

The Synopsis Challenge
Hosted by: LuLo Fangirl

Create your own synopsis. In 3-5 sentences.
For any of the books you have read or plan to read during the read-a-thon!

You can be as creative as you’d like!

Fired for saying she hated Christmas on live television, Emma Sutton is after the Christmas story of the year to win her job back.
Returning to her hometown to help organize the town's Christmas festivities she is shocked to discover she will be working for the man whose heart she broke when she ended their engagement years ago.
Now as the work together closely the old feelings return and Emma is left with the decision between her job and the man of her dreams!
A Sugar Creek Christmas by Jenny B. Jones

Bout of Books 12: Day 2 Update & Day 3 Challenge

Day Two Update

Books I Read Today: 
Hope Rising by Stacy Henrie (325 pgs)
A Sugar Creek Christmas by Jenny B. Jones (96 pgs)
A Brush with Love by Rachel Hauck (84 pgs)

Books I Finished Today:
Hope Rising by Stacy Henrie
A Sugar Creek Christmas by Jenny B. Jones

Pages Read Today: 505

Total Books Finished: 3

Total Pages Read: 820

My Thoughts on Today
Another great day of reading! The baby I nanny once again slept a lot and then I was able to read during the commercial breaks of Agent Carter and Forever! The one downside is the dog the family I nanny for owns decided that my book would make a good chew toy when I set it down to get the baby. Needless to say he and I are not on speaking terms right now!

Day Three Challenge

Character Coupling
You must take two characters from two different books and put them together in a relationship. Make sure you list the book and author that the characters comes from.
You must explain why you put them together.
The relationship is up to you (friendship, romantic, parental, etc.), let’s just keep it appropriate, please.

Characters must come from different books and series. Same author is okay with me as long as they aren’t in the same series or a companion series.

Ok so this is the best my sleep deprived brain could do. I paired Blake McClare from Julie Lessman's The Heart of San Francisco series with Janet Rutledge from Hope Rising by Stacy Henrie.
I started with Blake since I really want him to have his own story but he needs to be reformed so I had to find someone who was sweet yet strong enough to stand up to Blake and who also had a strong faith. I just finished Hope Rising today and even though Janet was only in the last portion I really liked her character and I think she could handle the Rake!

Waiting on Wednesday #143: Remember the Lilies

Hosted by Breaking the Spine.

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event that spotlights upcoming releases that we're
eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Remember the Lilies by Liz Tolsma
Thomas Nelson-February 3, 2015

About the Book

Interred by the Japanese, missionary Irene Reynolds comes across a mysterious note while working at the censor’s office. She memorizes the parts she must black out and delivers it to wealthy nightclub owner Rand Sterling. Before she knows what’s happening, she’s drawn into a web of secrets and danger.

Rand Sterling wants nothing more than to reopen his nightclubs once the war ends. But slimy Frank Covey wants his hand in the till—and has news that could threaten Rand’s reputation if it became public. More importantly, beautiful and intriguing Irene Reynolds cannot discover this information if he expects to persuade her to become his wife.

When Irene is attacked by a sinister Japanese guard and their secrets are exposed, they must learn the true meaning of forgiveness—if they can stave off starvation until the American troops bring freedom.

Why I Want It

I enjoyed Liz's previous two books and I love anything WWII! Plus this one sounds rather intriguing and the cover is adorable!

Bout of Books 12: Day 1 Update & Day 2 Challenge

Day One Progress

Books I Read Today: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling (248 pgs)
A Sugar Creek Christmas by Jenny B. Jones (67 pgs)

Books I Finished Today: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling

Pages Read Today: 315

Total Books Finished: 1

Total Pages Read: 315

My Thoughts on Today
Not a bad way to start off the read-a-thon! I started my new nanny job today and then had a babysitting job in the evening but since the baby I watch slept a lot I was able to get a bunch of reading in! Here's hoping day 2 goes well!

Day Two Challenge

Top 10 Recommendations

"You’ve just started to work at a bookstore (or library) - what are your top ten go-to book recommendations?"

#1. The O'Conner Family Saga by Julie Lessman

#2. Made to Last and Here to Stay by Melissa Tagg

#3. The River of Time Series by Lisa T. Bergren

#4. Wings of Glory Series by Sarah Sundin

#5. The Quiet Professionals Series by Ronie Kendig

#6. The Christiansen Family by Susan May Warren

#7. Alaskan Courage Series by Dani Pettrey

#8. The O'Malley Series by Dee Henderson

#9. Lassoed in Texas/Montana Marriages/Sophie's Daughter Series by Mary Connealy

#10. The Homelanders Series by Andrew Klavan