Author Interview: Captive Set Free by Valerie Limmer

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Captive Set Free by Valerie Limmer, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Captive Set Free 

Author: Valerie Limmer 

Publisher: Green Sap Publications 

Release Date: October 18, 2022 

Genre: Non-Fiction, Christian Living

Have you been hurt? Are you hounded by turbulent feelings and looping thoughts? Do you know you need to forgive but aren't sure where to begin?

Captive Set Free is a lamppost along the path of healing, offering engaging stories and examples, explaining how forgiveness fits into our spiritual DNA, and examining mindsets that make forgiving easier or harder. In this book, you'll learn how to

- take concrete steps to forgive; 

- be sure forgiveness has taken hold in your heart; and 

- guard your spirit from bitterness, both now and in the future. 

If you're tired of being imprisoned by pain and toxicity and want to step into the free and abundant life Jesus has planned for His children, this book is for you.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | BookBub

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About the Author

Valerie Limmer is a missionary in Japan. She is neither a therapist nor a theologian, but she has experienced severe abuse from a handful of people. In Captive Set Free, she shares the principles and techniques she's learned in her own life on her journeys towards forgiveness.

Connect with Valerie by visiting valerielimmer.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Author Interview

Q: What prompted you to write Captive Set Free?

Valerie: If we are Christians, most of us have heard about the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, and so on), and the gifts of the Spirit (e.g., pastor, prophet, evangelist). The Holy Spirit also seems to also choose certain life themes for each of us. One person might learn a lot about what it means to be His child, another person might continually learn more and more about God fulfilling His promises, and another might learn about the ways God provides for us. One of my major life themes is forgiveness.

Over the course of my life, I’ve been badly abused by half a dozen different people, starting in childhood. I started writing this book when I was healing from some horrific abuse I’d experienced as an adult. I realized that the things I was learning, the principles and techniques I was applying in my own journey of forgiveness, might be useful to people who might be struggling with the same issues. It’s a beautiful thing to witness God redeeming the horrors we’ve experienced and transforming them into something beautiful that can help other people.


Q: What do you hope readers take away from this book?

Valerie: Forgiving someone who has hurt you is possible! Not only is it possible, but the journey towards forgiveness will deepen you—both your faith, and your understanding of the forgiveness that Jesus offers to you. Forgiveness requires courage and endurance, but you don’t need to have it all at the start. Sometimes starting with a prayer (“Jesus, please help me want to forgive”) is all we can do, and God delights to honor this type of prayer. You will grow through the process, and as you do, Jesus will unlock doors to joy and peace in your heart that you might never have realized were there!


Q: Do you have a favorite quote from this book?

If I had to choose something, it would probably be the last line of the book. At the end of each section in Captive Set Free, there are a few questions and exercises to help the reader internalize the lessons of that section and examine his or her own life to help start the process of forgiving. Here’s the quote from the last question:

“Forgiveness frees our minds and spirits from the clutter and distraction of bitterness. With it gone, how will you ‘redecorate’ your mind and life? What will you do with your extra emotional, spiritual, and physical energy?”

I love this question because there’s so much hope in it. Forgiveness isn’t a journey whose end is despair and further hurt. It’s a journey that embraces hope and peace.


Q: How long did it take you to write Captive Set Free?

Valerie: Writing is a hobby, not my profession. So, I write for a few hours a week on my day off. Overall, it took about 5 years, from start to finish: one year for the first draft, three years to edit, and another year to publish.


Q: What do you wish you’d known when you were younger?

Valerie: That I wasn’t going to peak in high school, as I feared, but that as we use our gifts and talents, God honors our desire to honor Him.


Q: Would you share something about yourself that most readers wouldn’t know?

Valerie: I normally live in Japan as a missionary; it can be interesting to see how God prepares us to follow Him as He calls us to follow Him into ministry. For instance, I have double-jointed knees, ankles, and toes, which makes it easy to sit seiza (a special way of sitting in Japan, required of ladies in formal situations). This is usually quite painful, even for Japanese women. But not for me!


Q: What are you reading now?

Valerie: The Humans by Matt Haig. I’ve only read one other book by him, which was very good. This fictional story is about an alien who’s come to earth and is inhabiting a human body. He doesn’t understand anything about human culture or customs, and it’s ridiculously funny to see the world through his eyes.


Q: What do you like to do when you aren't writing?

Valerie: I like to read, cook, draw, learn new languages, and make Japanese wax food models.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a copy of Captive Set Free and a $25 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 9, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 16, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Book Review: Where Dandelions Bloom by Tara Johnson

About the Book:

Cassie Kendrick is on the run. Her abusive father arranged her marriage to a despicable man, but she’s discovered an escape. Disguised as a man, Cassie enlists in the Union army, taking the name Thomas Turner. On the battlefields of the Civil War, keeping her identity a secret is only the beginning of her problems, especially after she meets Gabriel Avery, a handsome young photographer.


Anxious to make his mark on the world and to erase the darkness and guilt lurking from his past, Gabriel works with renowned photographer Matthew Brady to capture images from the front lines of the war. As Gabriel forges friendships with many of the men he encounters, he wonders what the courageous, unpredictable Thomas Turner is hiding.

Battling betrayal, their own personal demons, and a country torn apart by war, can Cassie and Gabriel learn to forgive themselves and trust their futures to the God who births hope and healing in the darkest places?

My Thoughts:

Where Dandelions Bloom by Tara Johnson piqued my interest from the first chapter and carried it through the novel. The story was easy to read and entertaining. At first it had a Mulan-like vibe with Cassie disguising herself as a man to join the army, but the story really moved into its own as it progressed.  As expected, there is a substantial amount of violence and blood. The author does not gloss over these aspects of war as experiencing the war and fighting is part of Cassie’s character development.

I appreciated the deep character development in both Cassie and Gabe. Forgiveness, gender roles, and deception are a few of the themes that both characters wrestle with as they find themselves drawn to each other and, ultimately, toward their God. Though their romance is off and on throughout the story, somehow the author wove in a pleasant level of romantic tension that I enjoyed.

A favorite quote: “We learn who we were to decide who we want to be.” (Page 47) 

I recommend Where Dandelions Bloom by Tara Johnson to fans of historical romance, especially readers who like Civil War fiction. 4 Stars!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book through the publisher’s My Reader Rewards Program. I was not required to write a review and all opinions in this review are my own. 

If you are interested in earning free books, use my referral link to join the My Reader's Reward Program!

Book Review: Love and Other Mistakes by Jessica Kate

About the Book:

Natalie Groves once had big dreams. But soon after her fiancé, Jeremy Walters, inexplicably broke off their engagement and left town, her father was diagnosed with cancer. Now tasked with keeping her family afloat, Natalie’s grand plans have evaporated . . . and God feels very far away.

Fast-forward seven years, and Jeremy is back in Charlottesville with an infant son and years of regrets. When his niece, Lili, lands on his doorstep in need of a place to stay, Jeremy needs help—and fast.

An internship opening finally presents Natalie a chance at her dream job, but she needs a second income to work around it—and the only offer available is Jeremy’s. They could be the solutions to one another’s problems, provided they don’t kill each other in the process. When they join forces, sparks fly. But they both know there’s a thin line between love and hate . . . and that love will turn out to be the best decision—or the biggest mistake—of all. 

My Thoughts: 

Love and Other Mistakes by Jessica Kate is a delightful contemporary romance. Brimming with romantic tension, the story captivated and entertained me as Jem and Natalie find themselves drawn to each other despite their past. I adore second chance love stories and this one did not disappoint.

I liked that Love and Other Mistakes didn't shy away from life difficulties. There's family dysfunction, a sick loved one, and the struggles of a single parent. Good themes, including a prominent one about forgiveness, are present and contribute a pleasant level of depth to the story. I felt the ending was slightly rushed. However, I thoroughly enjoyed Love and Other Mistakes by Jessica Kate and look forward to reading her next novel.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Thief of Corinth by Tessa Afshar

At sixteen, Ariadne recognizes the danger that lurks in her future should she continue living in Athens. She and her brother, Theo, flee to their father in Corinth and it is there that she discovers her father steals from the city's corrupt, elite citizens. Blessed with a love of running and athletics, Ariadne determines to partner with him and revels in the heists. But her secrets undermine her relationships with her brother, Theo, and her love interest, Justus. When Paul, a Jewish rabbi, enters their lives, everything begins to change. Unfortunately, a powerful man discovers their secret and Ariadne finds her future in jeopardy. Read more in Thief of Corinth by Tessa Afshar.

In my opinion, Thief of Corinth is in the top three books that Tessa Afshar has written. Between Ariadne's determination, tense relationships, and dangerous situations, I found myself constantly eager to read more of the story. I liked that the author did not fully explain Ariadne's plans for her heists ahead of time. It was nerve-wracking (in a good way) to read some of Ariadne's adventures and one of them was laugh out loud hilarious.

As expected, Ariadne grows and changes throughout the story. Ariadne's character is not only vibrantly written, but her character development is complex and beautiful – one of the story's greatest strengths. I also appreciated the themes of forgiveness, honesty, and empowerment.

In Thief of Corinth, Tessa Afshar returns to the first century, the same time period of her book, Bread of Angels. There is a brief tie-in between the two novels, but Thief of Corinth is a stand-alone novel.

I recommend Thief of Corinth by Tessa Afshar to anyone who enjoys Biblical fiction, man or woman. My husband also read this book and thoroughly enjoyed it. While Ariadne is sixteen at the beginning of the book, I would categorize this as Christian Fiction, not Christian Young Adult (YA).

Read an excerpt from Thief of Corinth by Tessa Afshar on Tyndale Publisher's website.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A Matter of Trust by Susan May Warren

Champion snowboarder Gage Watson had lucrative sponsorships, his dream career, and a budding romance until the death of a fan. These days, he makes his life in Montana's rugged mountains as a ski patrol and emergency rescuer. In the past three years, he's not been able to forgive himself or make peace with his past. Then Ella Blair, his former love interest who betrayed him, arrives and insists on helping rescue her brother. As they work together, Gage is forced to acknowledge his past and finds hope for a future with Ella. But a secret still lies between them. Will buried secrets keep Gage and Ella apart or could the truth set them both free? Read more in A Matter of Trust by Susan May Warren.

A Matter of Trust is the third full-length novel in Susan May Warren's Montana Rescue Series. It is not necessary to read the prior two novels, but they are excellent reads and I do recommend them.

As usual, Susan May Warren's writing style was captivating. Within the first chapter, Warren introduces Gage and Ella separately, as they are in the present, but with hints of their rocky past that engage the reader's curiosity. The story ushered me into it at page one and held my interest throughout. The sizzling tension, unwarranted forgiveness, secret betrayal, heady romance, and self-sacrifice created quite a story. I loved it and can easily recommend it to fans of contemporary Christian romance. My only warning is that, if you are, like me, a native Floridian with little knowledge of snowboarding, you might have to google some snowboarding terms. :)

Read an excerpt from A Matter of Trust  by Susan May Warren on the publisher's website.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Love Unexpected by Jody Hedlund

Emma Chambers craves stability. Coming from a turbulent past, her intense desire for a home and family leads her to a hasty marriage after she and her brother lose everything in a pirate attack. Emma's new husband, Patrick Garraty, is handsome, kind and God-fearing, but besieged by his own dark past. When rumors about Patrick's role in his late wife's death reach Emma, the suspicions she already had seem even more real. Still, Emma finds herself deeply drawn to Patrick in spite of her doubts. When the truth is revealed, will Emma and Patrick find the grace to forgive and release their pasts? Read more in Love Unexpected by Jody Hedlund.

I thoroughly enjoyed Love Unexpected. Themes of grace and forgiveness, not only between Emma and Patrick, but also between God and humanity were expertly dealt with. The story commences with a pirate attack that effectively engaged my interest. The story was well-paced, well-written and had no trouble holding my interest. I felt like the physical desire aspects were a little overdone as Emma and Patrick were continually desiring one another, yet holding back. Still, this added tension to their relationship and the story, so I can see why it was included.

I could totally relate to Emma dealing with Patrick's son, Josiah, a strong-willed toddler. This added authenticity and a bit of humor to the story. However, it seemed to me that there were strong parenting messages in the novel regarding spanking, thumb-sucking, discipline. I personally agree with the stance that Emma chooses, so I wasn't offended, but those who adhere to more strict ideas regarding spanking, not co-sleeping, and ending thumb-sucking at a certain age may be at odds with the parenting messages that are conveyed.

Love Unexpected is the first, full-length novel in Jody Hedlund's Beacons of Hope series. There is a prequel, Out of the Storm, which is a free e-book novella that ties in with Love Unexpected. However, if you don't read the prequel, it won't negatively affect your understanding of Love Unexpected.

I recommend Love Unexpected to fans of inspirational romances. Like the rest of Jody Hedlund's books, this one is a keeper for my bookshelf. I'm sure I'll read it again and I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series.

Read an excerpt from Love Unexpected by Jody Hedlund on the publisher's website.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

At Bluebonnet Lake by Amanda Cabot

Rainbow's End, a once beautiful resort in the Texas Hill Country, sits in decay, physically and financially. Kate Sherwood, whose marketing career is on the upswing, reluctantly agrees to her ailing grandmother's request to visit Rainbow's End together for one month. While Kate's grandmother, Sally, relives the memories of her previous visit fifty years ago, Kate sees only a month without internet and cell phone service, a potential death trap for her career. When Greg Vange, whom Kate assumes is the resort's handyman, helps her get an internet connection and tells her where to find service, Kate is ready to get back on track. Or is she? As she brainstorms the marketing concept for her newest client, Greg is distractingly handsome, fun and rich. Greg has the money to restore the resort. Kate has the talent to create marketing appeal. It seems like a great match to bring life to Rainbow's End, except that Rainbow's End and Greg Vange don't fit into Kate's life plans. Will love find a way to bring them together? Read more in At Bluebonnet Lake by Amanda Cabot.

At Bluebonnet Lake is the first novel in Amanda Cabot's Texas Crossroads series. The premise, billionaire meets marketing maven, delivered a gentle story of friendship that transformed to love. The novel was laced with humor and touched on redemptive themes such as letting go of bitterness and surrendering to God's will for one's life. However, the plot meandered and was repetitive... as in the same settings/scenes occurred repeatedly. Unfortunately, I lost interest and even though the ending was sweet, I probably won't read it again.

At Bluebonnet Lake has some good points and readers who love the small town setting might like it more than I did. However, I was a bit disappointed and I recommend renting the novel from the library prior to buying.  

Read an excerpt from At Bluebonnet Lake on the publisher's website.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A Vision of Lucy by Margaret Brownley

Lucy Fairbanks' passion for photography gets her into unusual situations. She's not afraid to take a risk if the reward earns her the title of artist or photographer. After ending up as a witness/almost-victim in a stage coach robbery, Lucy is saved by the mysterious David Wolf who is believed to be a wild man by the locals of Rocky Creek. Motivated by both gratitude and selfishness, Lucy attempts to vindicate David by photographing him for the local newspaper. Unfortunately, her plan backfires and places David's life in danger. But this isn't the first time that the town's inhabitants have tried to kill David. As a half-white, half-Indian child, he was ostracized and endangered. Twenty years later, he's back with a vendetta. As Lucy and David grow closer to each other, the mystery of David's past becomes an insurrmountable hurdle. Will their young love survive? Or will prejudices of the past keep them apart forever? 

A Vision of Lucy by Margaret Brownley is the third book in the Rocky Creek Romance series, but it is fine to read as a stand-alone novel. This book combined two of my favorite pastimes (reading and photography), but I wish it had been more engaging. Some books will draw me back to them whenever I have a free moment. Unfortunately, this one didn't. However, I did enjoy the photography quotes and learned some information about very old photography practices. I thought the characters of Lucy and Caleb were well-written and I honestly couldn't guess who the “fourth boy” was until he was revealed.

A Vision of Lucy will probably be loved by some people and disdained as forgettable by others, a judgment depending solely upon personal taste. I recommend renting it from the library before buying.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this e-book free from Thomas Nelson via NetGallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Colonel's Lady by Laura Frantz

A desperate Roxanna Rowan braves the hostile frontier to travel to Fort Endeavor where her father serves as a scrivner. Upon her father's regiment's return to the fort, Roxanna learns the terrible truth that her father is dead. Despondent and destitute, Roxanna remains at the fort and agrees to serve as scrivner to the attractive, yet demanding Colonel Cassius McLinn. As Roxanna and Cass grow closer to each other, danger grows closer to the fort. Roxanna discovers her father's journal and his suspicions of espionage. However, the worst secret is yet to be revealed. Will Roxanna and Cass be able to put the past behind them? It will take a higher power than what either of them have to survive the coming days.

The Colonel's Lady is the first book I've read by Laura Frantz and I will definitely be reading more. I usually don't gush about a book, but I absolutely loved this one and I know I will reread it multiple times in the future. The poignant story hooked me from the beginning and the vivid characters stayed in my mind for days. The author's writing style was amazing. It was so beautiful to read that I wanted to take my time, but yet I was compelled to read quickly because I wanted to know what was going to happen. A delicious quandry, indeed.

The Colonel's Lady is probably the best book I've read this year and I absolutely recommend it to fans of Christian romance.

Click here to read an excerpt by The Colonel's Lady by Laura Frantz.

Available August 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A Heart Divided by Kathleen Morgan

Sarah Caldwell reluctantly agreed to her father’s plan for her to distract a ranch hand while he and her brothers rob the Wainwrights. However, when she realizes that the ranch hand is Cord Wainwright, one of the heirs of the ranch, Sarah knows the stakes have escalated and barely manages to rationalize her family’s actions. Unfortunately, Cord isn’t feeling so rational. A quick trip into town finds Sarah under citizen’s arrest by Cord. Living as his prisoner is terrible, but as the days pass, she begins to see Cord as more than an angry rancher. Growing affection between the two complicates their lives. Having a relationship would mean betraying their families. Are they willing to give up their families in the name of love? As Cord comes to terms with his father and Sarah begins to realize how unhealthy her family is, there seems to be a hope for their future. However, when Cord’s cattle begin to disappear, they both struggle in the newfound relationship. Will their relationship survive? Or will they continue the patterns set by their families so many years ago?

When I read the back cover of A Heart Divided by Kathleen Morgan, I thought it was going to be a Christian version of Romeo and Juliet with a happy ending. I am happy to say that it is far more than a simple story of two people from feuding families who fall in love. The plot included plenty of romance fused with character development and spiritual lessons. I appreciated the author’s realistic depiction of a dysfunctional family. I have personal experience with dysfunctional families and I can say the author was right on target with her depictions. To someone outside of a dysfunction family (i.e. Cord), Sarah’s love and actions may seem irrational. However, in a family like Sarah’s, her actions and emotions make complete sense. The way the author brought Sarah around to a healthy mindset was perfect. I really connected with Sarah’s character and in a way the book reaffirmed some personal decisions I have made. I will definitely be keeping this book and reading it again!

I can recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of Christian romances.

Click here to read an excerpt from A Heart Divided by Kathleen Morgan

Available May 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell Publishers as part of a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Girl in the Gatehouse by Julie Klassen

Expelled from her father's house, Mariah Aubrey has no place to live except an old, musty gatehouse on her aunt's estate. The separation from her family is difficult for Mariah and she escapes reality by writing novels. When Mariah's aunt passes away, her cousin inherits the estate and starts exacting a rental fee. Mariah's writing and small allowance from her father barely cover the rent. Then Captain Matthew Bryant leases the estate with the intent of buying it. Draw together by their common ground, figuratively and literally, Mariah and Matthew develop a kinship that could lead to more than just friendship. However, rumors are rampant about Mariah. Will Matthew risk his reputation, his heart, and his dreams for the mysterious Mariah?

I loved The Girl in the Gatehouse by Julie Klassen. I found the uniqueness of the individual scenes refreshing. One of my favorite scenes in the entire book was when Mariah and Matthew read a theatrical script by Simon Wells. So romantic and sweet. I also enjoyed that there was more to the plot than just the relationship with between Mariah and Matthew. The sub-plots about Captain Prince, Lizzy Barnes, and Mrs. Dixon enhanced the main plot and created a pleasurable reading experience. I would have liked to have seen more spiritual development. There were multiple mentions of the Mariah's and Matthew's spiritual issues that were never resolved later in the book. However, I immensely enjoyed The Girl in the Gatehouse and I heartily recommend it to anyone who is a fan of historical romances.

Click here to read an excerpt from The Girl in the Gatehouse.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Amazing Love by Corrie ten Boom

As youth, Corrie ten Boom and her sister suffered imprisonment in a Nazi concentration camp. Treated harshly, her sister escaped the concentration camp by way of the grave. Corrie, however, was released and eventually recovered from the traumatic experience. In Amazing Love, Corrie recounts twenty-seven of her life experiences. Rather than remain bruised and scarred, Corrie gave her pain to God. In return, she received personal healing and opportunities to share the gift of healing with others. Corrie uses her trials and triumphs to encourage Christians from all walks of life.

Listening to Amazing Love was entertaining and encouraging. The stories challenged me spiritually while distracting me from the tediousness of laundry. I found listening to this audio book while doing chores quite enjoyable and I would definitely do it again.

Some of my favorite things in Amazing Love were: The discussions about the power of prayer and the different forms of prayer as well as the recurring theme of victorious living through Christ. Corrie used stories of personal victories in her own life to demonstrate her beliefs. One powerful statement was: “The promises of God are greater than the realities of our problems.” What a thought. I also enjoyed “The Chocolate Sermon.” I won't spoil it by explaining too much. However, the simple truth illustrated in that particular story has the potential to change lives. It doesn't hurt that I happen to love chocolate and can relate to the women in the story. I would not consider this to be a devotional, but it is spiritual uplifting.

Regarding the narration, the narrator's voice matched what I imagine the author's voice to sound like. It was distinguished with an interesting lilt. Vocal intonations, such as loudness, excitement and sadness, were utilized appropriately.

Amazing Love is available from christianaudio, please click here to visit their website.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this audiobook free from Christianaudio as part of their Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

An Echo of Hope by Dianna Crawford

She might be named Hope, but Hope Underwood gave up on marrying her true love, Michael Flanagan, years ago. After waiting seven years for Michael to return to Reardon Valley, Hope reluctantly married Ezra Underwood and later gave birth to her son, Timmy. When Ezra is killed in the war, Hope continues to live with her in-laws, the Underwoods, and tries to build a loving home for her son. The day that the soldiers of the war return to Reardon Valley is filled with joy and homecoming, but the messenger that brings Ezra's last letters to Hope and the Underwoods is none other than Sergeant Michael Flanagan. His very appearance causes not only a stirring in Hope's heart, but also a stirring of anger and prejudice in the community. Will Michael be able to overcome his father's reputation and establish himself as a man worthy of Hope Underwood? It's not going to be an easy task, but Love always finds a way.

An Echo of Hope is well-named by the author. At the beginning, it seems that there is barely an echo of hope remaining for Michael and Hope's love. At one point it seemed like there was no way the main characters could ever be together without leaving where they live. Yet, the author found a way to bring them together in a satisfying resolution that was neither cliché nor unrealistic. I loved it. While I would not consider this a mystery, there is an element of drama in the plot that keeps the reader guessing who did it, why it was done and what will happen next? This helped to keep the pace of the story moving and made for a delightful read.

Deep in the Heart of Trouble by Deeanne Gist

Essie surrendered her life to God years ago. With that surrender came the acceptance of her singleness. Now, at age 34, Essie is considered to be an old maid and is content helping with her father's business, running the Corsicana Velocipede Club and spending time with her loved ones. When her father hires Tony Bryant, Essie's under-control world begins to spin out of control – especially when Tony asks for permission to court her! But Essie and Tony both harbor secrets. Essie made a horrible mistake in her past and Tony hides his very identity. Can Essie and Tony both gather the courage to reveal their darkest secrets before the secrets destroy them?

Deep in the Heart of Trouble by Deeanne Gist is the sequel to Courting Trouble and I admit, of the two books, I liked this one better. The plot was filled with romance and at the same time had characters that challenged the reader to grow closer to God. I certainly admired Essie's dedication to God and her understanding that her worth came from God – not a man. She found contentment in her singleness and was willing to stay that way until God decided otherwise. Gist's writing style was catchy, fun and humorous. Mrs. Lockhart's character was absolutely charming. I loved the way she quoted romance novels to make her point. Overall, a good book that I would recommend for a permanent library. I will definitely be reading it again.

Somewhere To Belong

Johanna Ilg loves Amana, the plain community that she has always lived in. Though she longs to visit the outside world, she finds fulfillment by serving her people and her God. When the Schumacher family moves from Chicago to Amana, Johanna is given the responsibility of helping Berta Schumacher learn her responsibilities. The problem is that Berta does not want to be in Amana and she certainly does not want to work in a kitchen all day. Despite difficult moments, a unique friendship is formed between the two young women. When these young women discover family secrets that threaten to change their entire lives, they will only find restoration by pursuing the will of God. But will either of them be willing to face the difficult challenge of forgiveness?

I enjoyed this book, but it was one I would suggest renting from the library before buying. It was okay, but some things were confusing. I don't think Amana is an Amish village, but it has a lot of plain living characteristics. If you really like Amish stories, then you will probably love this book. The plot has a sweet love story woven within it, but focuses mostly on the lives of the two young women.
I suspect that there may be a sequel featuring more of Berta's life. The ending was very open. :)
 
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."