Margaret

As a historical novel this was good for bringing in the terms and talk of the Irish, but as a novel it was not quite my cup of tea. Somewhere toward the last third of the book several years were jumped and there was no clue to the time passing that rapidly before. It was rather choppy to me. One day she was a young girl doing what she felt the Lord wished and missing her mother... while the next she was a selfish woman who didn't understand what she wanted. Things just did not really seem to flow and make sense to me. I do not however regret reading it, I do feel that it was enjoyable, minus the choppiness. The ending however abrupt was really good and appropriate.

Originally posted on Creative Madness Mama.

*This old post has been updated on February 4, 2016,
thanks to my new format with the Ultimate Book Blogger Plugin *

As a lover of music and song, this is a fabulous book to look through at any time or to make in a daily devotion. Each page has a bio of a composer, the lyrics to a famous hymn, and the story behind the composition. Currently, this is one of my favorite devotional books that I have ever found. It was the perfect gift for my father who also loves this type of information. The only thing that I found lacking was if you do not know the song, you cannot hear the tune while reading the lyrics as there is no sheet music. Perhaps, this book could be sold with a CD of the hymns and that would make it perfect!

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This review was originally posted on Creative Madness Mama.

The pictures in this book are fascinating, it is like looking into a different world with the history presented here. Amazingly enough, the “Introduction for Quilters Guild” was written by, “Gov. Bill Clinton”. Interesting... This book is not just a picture book of quilts, but a history book that happens to specialize in quilts. This book is an absolute plethora of genealogical information on women that probably would not be able to be found elsewhere. I think I might have found several of my genealogy here myself!

Historical fiction is my favorite Christian fiction genre I believe. It is how I got started reading Christian fiction, one problem with it, is that some how I seem to have started with the best and often have a hard time finding anything that really meets the par. Things are great and enjoyable, but not quite as exciting as those first [a: Liz Curtis Higgs 6214 Liz Curtis Higgs https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1511110259p2/6214.jpg] or [a: Tracie Peterson 27788 Tracie Peterson https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1296327966p2/27788.jpg] and even [a: Francine Rivers 6492 Francine Rivers https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1358956670p2/6492.jpg]' [b: Redeeming Love 11422 Redeeming Love Francine Rivers https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1550053167l/11422.SX50.jpg 820210]. Well, boy is that not the case with Mary Connealy! Welcome to my favorites' shelf! (Literally I do have a favorites' shelf, if my mom didn't have half my books from it, I'd post a picture). (Ugh, it was a library book... I'll have to get a copy to put on my favorites' shelf....)Petticoat Ranch is everything that a good historical fiction should be, and I'm glad to have read it. I'm a southern gal through and through, and I'd like to think myself a Southern Belle. I'm really invested in my genealogy, and I have my family tracked for years to the late sixteen century in the Carolinas, and Virginia, and then later Georgia, Florida, Tennessee and Texas. I guess one way to put it, is to say that I'm completely biased. I love the bumper sticker that says “North 1 South 0 Half Time”. Not that I'm saying “yay to slavery”, but I know the stories, and have read journals of my own family members and have seen how cruel some of the North was against them. Not saying the South were angels, but I'm partial to my rebels, as they are my own blood. With that said... It's often hard for me to ever feel much for a story with Norther ties and empathy.Not at all the case with this book. I so feel for the characters, they are completely real to me, and I'm fully on their side! This book was incredible. I cannot count the times that I giggled, or rolled my eyes. I have no recollection of how many times I scoffed or said, “MEN!”. I am quite unsure of how many times I snickered and had a little evil laugh, feeling I'm sure the emotions of Sophie and her girls. In all cases, it was plenty, and I definitely was smiling through out this novel. That is, when I wasn't scowling and wanting revenge for my own self. The sermons were perfect and powerful, and so true to how God works. The reactions of the characters was real, and the men were not overly flowery, but were such “men”. (A problem often found with women authors, but not so with this book in my opinion. With that said, usually male authors have problems with their female characters in my mind too.) Sophie is such a strong woman, struggling to keep it all together, and I just love her personality. The girls are fabulous, and I really giggle and evil giggle with Beth loving what she's up to. I really cannot praise this story enough, now that I think about it. So many different personalities are captured within the different characters, and the main two commandments of Love from Jesus Christ reverberate through the pages. Even the most stubborn of a person can see a little insight into themselves through these pages.

Passion is an amazing gift that has been granted to us mere beings from our heavenly Father. It is a story set in Southie Boston and Ireland during the time of the First Great World War, but the issues broached are timeless in the worlds of men and women. When I first saw the cover of this book, it looked like something that I would enjoy. It was when I first got my hands on a copy and read the back and examined the cover in more detail, that I was fairly certain that this story was definitely something that I would enjoy. A Passion Most Pure is by far, one of the best books that I have ever read in my entire life. I like it better than I liked Francine Rivers' Redeeming Love (Now that's saying a lot). My favorite Christian Historical Fiction novel that actually was my gateway to my current addiction was Liz Curtis Higgs' Thorn in My Heart. I literally consumed the entire series within days of their publish-ment and cried when I had to wait months for more. I doubt than anything can replace my love for Liz' books, but this book sure does come close and I can hardly wait the next few months until the sequel A Passion Redeemed is released! This story told by fabulous debut author Julie Lessman involves many lives and all the intricate parts of each individual. Meaning, each heart and daydream, every fear and nightmare, as well as every prayer and hope is brought to life and is completely real. On a personal note for me, I can really relate to portions of the storyline (and I am sure that other readers can as well). This book is full of lessons and full of scriptures of life that are so relevant and will be a blessing to any reader. I strongly recommend it.More detailed: When I first saw the cover of this book, it looked like something that I would enjoy. It was when I first got my hands on a copy and read the back and examined the cover in more detail, that I was fairly certain that this story was definitely something that I would enjoy. Shortly after it came out, I heard some people talking in conflict over a partial plot, but did not understand what all they meant until I was able to read the book for myself. (I'll get to that in a second). A Passion Most Pure is by far, one of the best books that I have ever read in my entire life. I like it better than I liked [a:Francine Rivers 6492 Francine Rivers https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1358956670p2/6492.jpg]' Redeeming Love (Now that's saying a lot). My favorite Christian Historical Fiction novel that actually was my gateway to my current addiction was [a:Liz Curtis Higgs 6492 Francine Rivers https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1358956670p2/6492.jpg]' Thorn in My Heart. I literally consumed the entire series within days of their publish-ment and cried when I had to wait months for more. I doubt than anything can replace my love for Liz' books, but this book sure does come close and I can hardly wait the next few months until the sequel A Passion Redeemed is released! This story told by fabulous debut author [a:Julie Lessman 965709 Julie Lessman https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1425660250p2/965709.jpg] involves many lives and all the intricate parts of each individual. Meaning, each heart and daydream, every fear and nightmare, as well as every prayer and hope is brought to life and is completely real. On a personal note for me, I can really relate to portions of the storyline (and I am sure that other readers can as well). In my case it was not a sister, and I was not eighteen or engaged, but the heartbreak and broken trust was the same. I had a friend who had a hard home life, and learned at a very young age that negative attention was still attention. I befriended her and found out time and again how badly I was able to be betrayed and hurt. Every boy that I even thought was cute, she would make it a point to steal or “taint” them. Most of the time, they were little crushes and I got over it quickly with a shrug, but once it was “the boy”, the absolute “love of my life” at my early teenage years. It was well known my feelings for him, and he was just starting to notice me, and I then “interrupted” them. Much like in the story. I can completely relate to the shock, hurt, and anger that Faith went through. In my life it took years, and there is still a slight sting, but from that one I never fully recovered our friendship, hers and mine, as well as his and mine. This story hit me on a personal note. It takes place at the beginning of the First World War in Southie Boston and Ireland, but it could equally occur in everyday life today. The characteristics of people is still so much the same. The animosity between the sisters reminds me much of the feelings between the sisters in Liz Curtis Higgs' series (first two books), and then further to the jealousy and scorn of two very real Biblical sisters Rachel and Leah. When you open your eyes, it is incredible how the Biblical tales can teach you lessons for your own life. A Passion Most Pure is about passion, the loving mental and physical kind. But it is also at it's heart and all the way through about the kind of passion that is pure. The kind of passion that God gives us to share with the one that he picked for us. Some people will be/ and are taken aback and the obvious amount of intimacy that is portrayed in this book. But the title tells me and should tell you as a reader the real point of it all. There are things that in this day and age especially are so tainted and twisted from the will of our Lord God, and this story is a wonderful telling of how things are and how to act within them in how they should be. I do recommend this book. With younger girls (tweens and teens), I think that it should be read and discussed with a loving mother/mother-figure who could answer questions and share encouragement of how to be the woman that God wants you to be. Be strong and pray, and follow His way. He is out there and listening, and does want you to have the desires of your heart when you follow Him and His way.

I am very much so looking forward to the sequel of this book! Sometimes there are topics that people who have experience certain things are hurting terribly to tell someone to get opinions and help in a way, but the policies of society closes their mouths and keeps them alone in thought. Essie is a girl that is getting to a spinster age and wants nothing to do with it and seeks out herself a husband. Not only is she becoming an old maid at age 30, but she like hats, and gasp rides a bicycle (This is 1894 in Texas). Her first goal for a husband ends up getting baffled, but not before she moves onto desiring a drifter cowboy. This is where confusion and emotions play apart. I would really recommend this book for every girl and woman to read. Even men really. Sometimes you want something so badly that you are willing to break rules to get it, and do not even realize that the rules that you are breaking will take it completely from your grasp as well as effect the rest of your life. Who would imagine that something private you take part in effects everyone you know and love. The basic tells of this story is not of a spinster who looks and searches for her one true love, although that does happen. It is about a woman who wants to be loved so much, and doesn't realize that she already is. Jesus Christ is the one man who will love all no matter what they do, and the hard part in many peoples lives is how we can overlook that fact and get our lives to a ruining stand point before we realize we do not have to go searching just accept.

I recommend this book for anyone. But especially for those who knew me when I was age 16 and 17. This story will explain a lot to them and perhaps render some understanding into what fools we humans can be, but how we can grow and seek the right kind of love.

I do not know if I shall scream or cry or both. Love Starts with Elle is officially one of my favorite books of all time. It is by far my favorite book of contemporary Christian fiction. I enjoyed Sweet Caroline immensely, but it does not fully compare with the power and wonder of Elle. This is a sequel, but does stand alone on a firm foundation of Christ no less.

Elle is an artist, well in her heart. She mets Mr. Wonderful, who I did not like from page one, but he's so right. Until he's not, but really who is perfect? Well I did not see how in the world the plot could get her out of one situation or get her into another, but after reading the book in entirety I'm impressed. I cannot believe all that has happened. My goodness, our God is a mighty God.

Usually, I really do not like contemporary, because it's so real and harsh and there is just not enough “light”. Rachel Hauck gives contemporary a good name. It is real, there is some harshness and full tears. But there is love and light beyond the darkness. The characters are so real, and I want to move to their town and lives near their lives. After Sweet Caroline I just could not see how the story could continue on in Elle's life, but it did and in such a neat way. I had my tears and my giggles. I got angry at people and frustrated when they did not head my suggestions. I cherish their joys and I cannot wait for more works to come from the wonder that I have found in Rachel's words on a page.

“Deep in the Heart of Trouble” is the sequel to [b:Courting Trouble 624838 Courting Trouble Deeanne Gist https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1347698658l/624838.SY75.jpg 611196]. They are definitely meant to be read in order. If you skip the first one you will miss most everything that is important that is said, but not quite fully said. Read both and you'll be a very happy reader. grin Here we have a girl who messed up on life, but has taken another chance to live. By owning a bicycle club and teaching others various talents as well as running her father's oil company Essie really has an eventful life. She once attempted to find love and found that Christ was the only groom for her. Through this book she continues with that thought until she realizes that quite possibly she is no longer acting solely upon the respect of the relationship she has with Christ, but that perhaps she is using that as an excuse to hide from possible potential. [a:Deeanne Gist 52609 Deeanne Gist https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1545057055p2/52609.jpg] weaves together an incredible story with fabulous characters that really get into your heart and under your skin. I feel so blessed to have been able to read this story, both in the first volume and now second. The lessons to be learned and the reflections on your own life are quite educational. This series is a must read for most women, and definitely one for discussion afterward.

For as long as I can remember I have always been a fan of Robin Hood legend. Movies and books alike have told various versions that I have soaked up and loved. Earlier this year I found the best ever with the first two installations of [a: Stephen Lawhead 28083 Stephen R. Lawhead https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1247321485p2/28083.jpg]'s triology [b: Hood 44533 Hood Emma Donoghue https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1343682756l/44533.SY75.jpg 1413310] and [b: Scarlet 12296 The Scarlet Letter Nathaniel Hawthorne https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1404810944l/12296.SY75.jpg 4925227]. Those two books being from the perspective of, of course, Robin Hood (Bran) and Will Scarlet. This book fits right in!! I know that [a: Elsa Watson 229227 Elsa Watson https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1579464091p2/229227.jpg] is her own author and nothing to do with the former, but really this tale fits well into the mix. Here you have a version of the historic bard tale written in a way never read before. Of course the setting is different, so don't get me wrong, but what I mean is the perspective. This book is the retelling from Marian's point of view. Through Elsa's words she is as real as can be. Marian is finally real with thoughts, opinions, dreams, and fears. She brings to you through her inner-most thoughts her life from birth to future and you cannot help but feel with her. Anger and love, pain and joy. It is all there and well shared. Frankly, this book is fabulous and I could barely put it down. I hate that it was a library book, because I don't want to give it back. I guess I will just have to go and buy it myself now. I thoroughly enjoyed this read and will dream of it for nights to come. Jump in and explore the adventure and tales of a realistic Maid Marian from a juvenile to a young mistress. Learn the power of a woman in charge from both evil and good. It's just wonderful.

This August Adams Adventure is a step up from the first one and I cannot wait for more! This is a book that will do well in all markets, Christian or not. Non-stop action all the way through, with just a hint of romance. The adventurous journey that one takes with the Adams family through this book is one of a kind with the excitement levels of Indiana Jones and think International- National Treasure. I really liked this one, I would get into details, but really I do not want to give anything away, so all I can say is just read it.

The endorsements for this book rave about it's quality and after reading the story I must admit that I agree fully! Bringing forth an adventurous story keeping you guessing as to who is the good guy and who is bad, this is a real page turner. It is said to be a mix between 24, Indiana Jones, and the LOTR and I can see that. I'd also throw in a little Tomb Raider, National Treasure, and the Librarian for good measure. There is one scene in the book that I would not recommend for under 13, but the rest is just plain fabulous. It's better than a movie and is in an easy to carry format. I cannot wait to break the cover of [a: Matt Bronleewe 805240 Matt Bronleewe https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1389144811p2/805240.jpg]'s next [b: House of Wolves 12754393 The House of Wolves Robert B. McDiarmid https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1347671896l/12754393.SY75.jpg 17895705], I'm sure it will prove to be just as exciting!

Jane Austen of course is legend to us today. Although I have heard some historical discrepancies from one or two things in this novel of her life, I really see this as a depiction that is the most true to how I see Jane's life. [a: Nancy Moser 117288 Nancy Moser https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1377172495p2/117288.jpg] did a wonderful job bringing the light of Jane to a realistic picture for me and I could imagine every scene of her story. At first I was reading on a depressed note, thinking of the Jane movies I have seen recently just knowing that it will end with her death. At the end of the novel I was quite pleased with the way that Nancy arranged things. I believe this is the way that things should be. Jane should be missed surely, but not pitied. She would not want that I think. But I do believe she claps for joy each time someone else on our earth discovers the words that she has left to share with us all.

This book was the best of the trilogy. Really in this series, each book was better and better. A companion whose only thing she has ever lacked was a father goes in a forced search to find him when it seems all else is lost to her. She finds everything that she was meant to find, even when she did not realize that is what she was looking for. This story tells of patience, learning God's will and His timing, love, loss, friendship, fears, and the gift of giving. It is all around a great read.

This is more than a novel, a journey into two peoples lives that brings you to the edge of their experiences and beliefs and makes you focus on your own as well. I had a hard time through the first part of the novel, because I was unsure if I really liked the personality of the main character Elizabeth Westbrook. Yet as the story continued, and I was able to really look more on who she was and who she might be becoming I found that I really did like her. The humor through out the entire book is true to life. Included with the hardships of live during and after war, as well as life in the West is a love and growth between individuals. It is something that you can read about, and then feel it within your heart and not just turn a blind eye. Each character within this story has their flaws and they are these bits and pieces that make them so much more realistic and provide a reader the ability to relate. Every page brings something unexpected, and be fully prepared to shed some tears on the last page. Tammy has done it again with this novel, so far every single one is a complete hit to my mind and I cannot finish typing this review fast enough to pick up the second book in this Timber Ridge Series, [b:Beyond This Moment 3568996 Beyond This Moment (Timber Ridge Reflections, #2) Tamera Alexander https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1400175908l/3568996.SY75.jpg 3611199].

I read this all in one day in two sittings. Well to be honest, it's now 5:22am... so just over one day. :) If you liked [a: Francine Rivers 6492 Francine Rivers https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1358956670p2/6492.jpg]' [b: Redeeming Love 11422 Redeeming Love Francine Rivers https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1550053167l/11422.SX50.jpg 820210] or [a: Tracie Peterson 27788 Tracie Peterson https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1296327966p2/27788.jpg]'s [b: Yukon Quest 360014 Yukon Quest Pack (Yukon Quest #1-3) Tracie Peterson https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1388425722l/360014.SY75.jpg 350179] then you are sure to love this little novel. Heartbreaking struggle from both ends of a marriage to make things work in the best of times and worst of times with a second chance is just fabulous. A great read!

This book is completely about forgiveness. It is a sequel, but is about a completely different character and could stand on it's own. Everyone has a past, but more importantly everyone has a future. Here the author has made two very different people come to an understanding of each and it is beautiful to see God working in people's hearts and souls. I strongly recommend this book to anyone in particular, but especially to someone who is holding a grudge that they just cannot let go of, either to someone else, or more importantly to themselves. I know I can find a way to relate. I'm sure you can too.

This is absolutely one of the best books that I have ever read in my entire life so far. [b: A Bride So Fair 1975896 A Bride So Fair (A Fair to Remember #3) Carol Cox https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1266943257l/1975896.SY75.jpg 1979209] by [a: Carol Cox 5623 Carol Cox https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1327719210p2/5623.jpg] is the first work of Carol Cox's that I have had the privilege to read, but I'm excited now about finding more from her. First off, of the edition that I have, I love the cover of the girl looking off in the distance holding the quilt, it is just beautiful! The other cover edition I've seen, with the main characters standing there, well it's okay, but not as fabulous as this one with the purple. This story was so hard to put down. I have a lot to read, so I figured I'd start this one and get through a couple chapters if I could. Well, next thing I knew I was half way through and unwilling to stop. Then I'm at the part where my heart is beating so fast I can hardly contain myself and I have no idea what is going to happen or how things can be fixed, and then my husband gets home... sigh So, I had to stop make his dinner, eat mine, and then I'm back on the couch reading as fast as my eyes will let me and my mind is comprehending. Then I realize I'm going too fast and have to re-read a couple of passages, but then I have my good rate back. sigh Such a fabulous story! There is a mix of romance, and intrigue, and pure suspense. This story is unlike anything that I have read, but at the same time there are smidgens of little things that make my mind tangent off to something else I once loved. Such as: Anne of Green Gables the Continuing Story, much of Anne I see in Emily, and of course Dominique in Adam. Then there is a hint of the fast paced “Oh my goodness, he is so evil! What can possibly happen?!?!” that I felt from [a: Tracie Peterson 27788 Tracie Peterson https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1296327966p2/27788.jpg]'s [b: Yukon Quest 360014 Yukon Quest Pack (Yukon Quest #1-3) Tracie Peterson https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1388425722l/360014.SY75.jpg 350179] series. If you want romance, it's here. History, got it. Mystery, oh definitely with plenty of cozy suspense. Really, I cannot urge you to read this book enough. DO IT!

Mia Stanley is a lady of high regard living in late nineteenth century Pennsylvania fighting for the rights of women and children beyond what her social status believes is appropriate. Tracie Peterson has done it again in my opinion. I must admit that I was not crazy for this book and it's characters as I have been for some of Tracie's stories, but I did enjoy it and will recommend it and perhaps read it again. Mia has a very Emma-like quality about her. She wants to put everyone into a matchmade pair, but when she realizes who she wants to be her other half, it is a little too late as she pushed him away into a pair of his own.

Through this story you get entertainment and romance. There is mystery and suspense. There is a devotion and lesson to be learned. There are matters that affect your own life that you can gain from experiencing the lives of these characters. I have yet to come across a book by Tracie Peterson, except one, that I have not loved and this is no exception. It's great, not necessarily amazing, hence the four stars, but it's great.

[bc:The Vicar's Daughter 935402 The Vicar's Daughter (Regency Brides #1) Kimberley Comeaux https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1231191114l/935402.SY75.jpg 920386][bc:The Engagement 935401 The Engagement (Regency Brides #2) Kimberley Comeaux https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1347503683l/935401.SY75.jpg 920385][bc:Remember Me 21159118 Remember Me Kimberley Comeaux https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1394323842l/21159118.SY75.jpg 2387909]

[a:Tracie Peterson 27788 Tracie Peterson https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1296327966p2/27788.jpg] really gives me a lesson on patience in this trilogy. So many times, often the same person, would cause me so much strife and frustration, but the example person/character in the book would follow the right pathway of a Christian and point out just how impatient I was for them. I know it's just a book, but it makes me really think about reality. There were other characters that went through all the actions of both right and wrong and the feelings that you feel for their paths are powerful to reflect in truth. [bc:Treasures of the North 360037 Treasures of the North (Yukon Quest, #1) Tracie Peterson https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1348055349l/360037.SY75.jpg 350150][bc:Ashes and Ice 227887 Ashes and Ice (Yukon Quest, #2) Tracie Peterson https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1389040383l/227887.SY75.jpg 220721][bc:Rivers of Gold 360018 Rivers of Gold (Yukon Quest, #3) Tracie Peterson https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1424651702l/360018.SY75.jpg 350134]

Ugh! That's what I have to say. The entire book has a few questions that sit in the back of your mind and you expect them to be answered in the next page turn or the next chapter. The book then ends with absolutely nothing answered and the promise of a sequel. I'm not even sure that I want to read the sequel because I spent so much time wondering what would happen just to be left in the dark. VERY FRUSTRATING!

But basic synopsis... A newly widowed mother realizes that just because her spouse has gone does not mean her life is over. She decides to take a new enjoyment in life and goes back to all the old things she put aside for her marriage. It opens closed doors and brings in mystery. There is heartache and romance and a bit of new Christianity. But then the book ends and nothing is revealed. Answers are left blank to the millions of questions formed.

Bah.

[a: Amber Miller 3992346 Amber Miller https://s.gr-assets.com/assets/nophoto/user/u_50x66-632230dc9882b4352d753eedf9396530.png] has a great work in this book. The story is just what it needs to be. Starting out with a tragedy that allows one to get their back up and spout all their reasons for not trusting in the Lord and to go through a process of healing and really seeing what the Lord is trying to do for them is so hard to put into words, and she did it. Reading this story of Raelene makes you take the time to look at what is going on in your own life. For me it makes me think about the comparison to English life of Jane Austen-types and the farmers in the early colonies. So many times I gripe about what strife I have, but in the end really none of it does compare to what God provides. Like Gustaf, God sits by silently waiting for us to open our eyes while we continually break his heart over and over again. This story had everything that it needed, and I'm so glad that I crossed over it in my life.

[bc:A Light in the Window 21273551 A Light in the Window Janelle Jamison https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1394410988l/21273551.SY75.jpg 350212][bc:Destiny's Road 19182215 Destiny's Road Janelle Jamison https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1394277641l/19182215.SY75.jpg 350209][bc:Iditarod Dream 21153781 Iditarod Dream Janelle Jamison https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1394410990l/21153781.SY75.jpg 1310720][bc:Iditarod Dream And Christmas Dream 360095 Iditarod Dream And Christmas Dream (The Alaska Collection #3-4) Janelle Jamison https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1174083244l/360095.SX50.jpg 350211]

A Kingdom Divided (not in Goodreads?) [bc:Alas My Love 20422167 Alas My Love Tracie Peterson https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1388719018l/20422167.SY75.jpg 350203][bc:If Only 21310572 If Only Tracie Peterson https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1394229735l/21310572.SY75.jpg 1929833][bc:Five Geese Flying 22295402 Five Geese Flying Tracie Peterson https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1400798727l/22295402.SY75.jpg 350163]

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